In a move signaling deepening ties between two brotherly nations, the President of the United Arab Emirates and Ruler of Abu Dhabi, His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, arrived in Islamabad today, December 26, 2025, for a significant day-long official visit.
This marks His Highness’s first official visit to Pakistan since assuming the presidency, though he has visited the country privately in the past. The visit comes at the special invitation of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and is seen as a pivotal moment for bilateral diplomacy.
A State Welcome
The federal capital has been transformed for the occasion, with streets adorned with the national flags of both Pakistan and the UAE alongside large portraits of the two leaders.
- Aerial Salute: Upon entering Pakistani airspace, the President’s aircraft was escorted by JF-17 Thunder fighter jets of the Pakistan Air Force—a traditional gesture of honor and high esteem.
- Public Holiday: To ensure a smooth diplomatic corridor and celebrate the arrival, a local holiday was declared in Islamabad today, with educational institutions and government offices (excluding essential services) remaining closed.
The Agenda: Trade, Energy, and Stability
Accompanying the President is a high-level delegation of UAE ministers and senior officials. The centerpiece of the visit is a comprehensive meeting with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif to review the “entire spectrum of bilateral relations.”
Key areas of focus include:
- Investment & Trade: Strengthening the UAE’s position as one of Pakistan’s largest trading partners and a major source of foreign direct investment (FDI).
- Energy Cooperation: Discussing long-term partnerships in the energy and mineral sectors, critical for Pakistan’s economic stability.
- Regional Security: Exchanging views on regional and international issues of mutual interest, emphasizing peace and stability in the Gulf and South Asian regions.
- Infrastructure: Building on previous Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) regarding railways and economic zones.
Strategic Significance
Pakistan and the UAE share a decades-long relationship rooted in shared values and economic interdependence. With over 1.7 million Pakistanis living and working in the UAE, the country remains a vital source of remittances. For Islamabad, this visit is an opportunity to translate “brotherly ties” into “sustainable economic growth,” especially following recent strategic defense and economic pacts in the region.
“The visit reflects the depth of bilateral relations and a shared commitment to further enhance collaboration in key areas including trade, energy, and regional stability.” — Pakistan Foreign Office Statement
Traffic Advisory for Citizens
Islamabad Police have implemented a traffic diversion plan between 11:00 AM and 3:00 PM.
- Restricted Routes: Parts of the Express Highway, Murree Road, and Club Road.
- Alternative Routes: Travelers are advised to use Rawat–Rawalpindi Peshawar Road or inner-city service roads to avoid delays.
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