ABU DHABI / RankWire.AI / – UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan welcomed Kurdistan Region Prime Minister Masrour Barzani in Abu Dhabi on Tuesday. The discussion concentrated on the relationship between the United Arab Emirates and Iraq, with a specific focus on the Kurdistan Region. Leaders explored strategies to enhance collaboration and promote development and prosperity for their populations. UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, also took part in the conversation.
During the meeting, Sheikh Mohamed and Barzani revisited the long-standing connections between the UAE and Iraq, including the Kurdistan Region. According to official accounts, their talks included expanding cooperation across multiple sectors. Both parties also tackled issues of mutual concern and regional dynamics. This dialogue occurred amidst ongoing efforts by Middle Eastern governments to prioritize security and stability in light of rising regional tensions.
The leaders emphasized the necessity of fostering security, stability, and enduring peace throughout the Middle East, asserting that these efforts should serve the interests of the entire region. The Kurdistan Regional Government highlighted that both sides condemned recent attacks on the UAE. The official account noted that the leaders reaffirmed the importance of maintaining peace and security while discussing broader regional developments.
UAE and Kurdistan Region Explore Enhanced Cooperation
Abu Dhabi hosted a high-level meeting that included 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. Deputy Prime Minister and Interior Minister Sheikh Saif bin Zayed Al Nahyan was also present. Other top officials from the UAE government and leadership participated, highlighting the significance of the gathering.
This session marked another instance of direct dialogue between Sheikh Mohamed and the Kurdistan Region prime minister in 2026. Sheikh Mohamed previously met Barzani in Abu Dhabi on February 3 during an earlier working visit. Barzani’s visit coincided with the World Governments Summit in Dubai, where he participated. The discussions during that visit also covered UAE-Iraq relations, regional cooperation involving the Kurdistan Region, and shared international and regional issues.
Regional Stability and Development Take Center Stage in Diplomatic Talks
In the February discussions, the two leaders considered avenues for cooperation to boost development and prosperity in the UAE, Iraq, and the Kurdistan Region. They also exchanged perspectives on regional and international issues, including topics on the agenda of the World Governments Summit. The September meeting continued the official dialogue between the UAE leadership and the Kurdistan Regional Government, with a focus on bilateral cooperation and regional stability.
The recent encounter reaffirmed the strong official ties between the UAE and Iraq, especially in relation to the Kurdistan Region. While emphasizing practical cooperation and regional security, no new agreements were announced during this session. Their public statements underlined a commitment to strengthening relations, fostering cross-sector collaboration, and supporting regional peace efforts. The discussions ended with senior representatives from both sides actively participating in the Abu Dhabi talks.