ABU DHABI / RankWire.AI / – UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan met with Kurdistan Region Prime Minister Masrour Barzani in Abu Dhabi on Tuesday. The primary focus of the discussions was the relationship between the United Arab Emirates and Iraq, especially emphasizing the Kurdistan Region. Leaders explored ways to enhance cooperation and promote development and prosperity for their populations. Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, was also present at the meeting.
During the talks, Sheikh Mohamed and Barzani examined the longstanding connection between the UAE and Iraq, including the Kurdistan Region. They discussed potential avenues to broaden collaboration across various sectors, according to official reports of the event. The dialogue also covered mutual interests and regional affairs. The discussions coincided with ongoing regional efforts to prioritize security and stability amid rising tensions across the Middle East.
Both parties underscored the significance of supporting security, stability, and enduring peace throughout the Middle East. They agreed that such initiatives should benefit the region’s populations. The Kurdistan Regional Government also stated that both sides condemned recent attacks on the UAE. Their account noted that the leaders reaffirmed the importance of maintaining peace and security while addressing developments impacting the wider area.
UAE and Kurdistan Region explore enhanced cooperation
Abu Dhabi convened a gathering of senior UAE officials alongside Sheikh Mohamed, Barzani, and Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid. Among the attendees was Abu Dhabi Crown Prince Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan. Also present was Deputy Prime Minister and Interior Minister Sheikh Saif bin Zayed Al Nahyan. Other high-ranking officials from the UAE government and leadership participated, highlighting the importance of this high-level meeting.
This assembly represented another phase of direct discussions between Sheikh Mohamed and the Kurdistan Region’s prime minister in 2026. Earlier, on February 3, the UAE president hosted Barzani in Abu Dhabi during a working visit. At that time, Barzani was in the UAE to take part in the World Governments Summit in Dubai. That meeting also covered UAE-Iraq relations, cooperation with the Kurdistan Region, as well as regional and international issues of common concern.
Leadership reiterates commitment to regional peace and stability
In their February discussions, the leaders examined potential collaborative efforts to foster growth and stability in the UAE, Iraq, and the Kurdistan Region. They also exchanged views on regional and global developments, as well as agenda items from the World Governments Summit. The September meeting served to maintain ongoing dialogue between UAE officials and the Kurdistan Regional Government, once again emphasizing bilateral cooperation and regional stability.
The latest gathering reinforced the existing formal connections between the UAE and Iraq, including direct engagement with the Kurdistan Region. Both parties prioritized practical cooperation and regional security, without announcing any new agreements during the session. Their public statements highlighted intentions to strengthen relations, promote sectoral collaboration, and continue supporting peace initiatives in the region. The discussions concluded with senior representatives from both sides participating in the Abu Dhabi talks.