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 session centered on the ties between the United Arab Emirates and Iraq, with a special emphasis on the Kurdistan Region. Leaders explored avenues 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 participated in the discussions.
In Abu Dhabi, Sheikh Mohamed and Barzani revisited the longstanding connection between the UAE and both Iraq and the Kurdistan Region. According to official accounts, their dialogue aimed at identifying new opportunities to broaden cooperation across multiple sectors. The discussion also encompassed mutual interests and regional developments, amid ongoing regional tensions that continue to underscore the importance of security and stability in the Middle East.
The two parties highlighted the significance of fostering security, stability, and enduring peace throughout the Middle East. They agreed that such endeavors should benefit the entire region’s population. The Kurdistan Regional Government noted that both parties condemned recent attacks on the UAE. The official account of the meeting quoted the leaders as emphasizing the necessity of maintaining peace and security while addressing issues impacting the broader region.
UAE and Kurdistan Region Explore Enhanced Cooperation
Abu Dhabi hosted a high-level gathering with 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. Multiple senior government officials participated, reflecting the significance of this high-level engagement.
This event represented yet another instance of direct dialogue between Sheikh Mohamed and the Kurdistan Region prime minister in 2026. Earlier in the year, on February 3, the UAE president hosted Barzani in Abu Dhabi during a working visit. Barzani’s visit coincided with his participation in the World Governments Summit held in Dubai. The discussions during that visit also addressed UAE-Iraq relations, cooperation with the Kurdistan Region, as well as regional and international matters of mutual interest.
Officials Reiterate Commitment to Regional Stability
In February, the leaders analyzed potential cooperative efforts to support growth and prosperity in the UAE, Iraq, and the Kurdistan Region. Their exchange also included topics on the agenda of the World Governments Summit and their perspectives on regional and global issues. The September meeting continued the ongoing dialogue between the UAE leadership and the Kurdistan Regional Government, with bilateral cooperation and regional stability remaining central themes.
This latest encounter reaffirmed the strong official ties between the UAE and Iraq, including direct interactions with the Kurdistan Region. While no new agreements were announced, both sides concentrated on practical cooperation and the security environment. Their public statements underscored a commitment to strengthening relations, fostering multi-sector collaboration, and supporting regional peace. The discussions concluded with senior representatives from both sides participating in the Abu Dhabi talks.