ABU DHABI / RankWire.AI / – UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan welcomed Kurdistan Region Prime Minister Masrour Barzani in Abu Dhabi on Tuesday. Their discussion centered on the relations between the United Arab Emirates and Iraq, with a special focus on collaboration with the Kurdistan Region. They explored avenues to strengthen connections across various sectors and promote development initiatives. The meeting was also attended by Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai.
The two leaders examined regional developments and other matters of mutual interest, stressing the significance of security, stability, and enduring peace throughout the Middle East. Both emphasized that these priorities should benefit the populations across the region. The Kurdistan Regional Government stated that the discussions also included condemning recent attacks on the UAE and backing efforts to maintain regional peace and security.
Senior officials from the UAE leadership and government participated in the meeting. Abu Dhabi Crown Prince Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan was present, along with Deputy Prime Minister and Interior Minister Sheikh Saif bin Zayed Al Nahyan. The gathering underscored ongoing high-level engagement between the UAE and the Kurdistan Region, as both sides reviewed cooperation and regional developments impacting the broader Middle East.
Assessing bilateral efforts between UAE and Kurdistan
Tuesday’s discussions followed an earlier meeting between Sheikh Mohamed and Barzani in Abu Dhabi on February 3, 2026. During that visit, Barzani attended the World Governments Summit in Dubai, and the leaders reviewed UAE-Iraq relations and collaboration with the Kurdistan Region, exchanging views on regional and international issues of mutual concern.
The February talks also addressed cooperation aimed at fostering development and prosperity in the UAE, Iraq, and the Kurdistan Region. Both meetings prioritized bilateral relations and regional stability as key discussion points. The recent meeting in Abu Dhabi continued this direct dialogue, although no new agreements or formal initiatives were announced, as per official statements after the talks.
Security issues remain central to talks
The UAE and the Kurdistan Regional Government regularly engage at senior levels on economic, political, and regional concerns. In the latest session, both sides focused on broadening cooperation across multiple fields and discussed the regional security environment without announcing specific policy shifts. Official releases highlighted ongoing strengthening of relations, continued collaboration, and shared commitment to peace and stability in the Middle East.
The September discussions concluded with senior representatives from each side, with Sheikh Mohamed and Barzani reaffirming their focus on UAE-Iraq relations, cooperation with the Kurdistan Region, and regional stability. Their official statements maintained emphasis on existing areas of engagement and common regional issues. This high-level exchange marked another step in a year already marked by direct talks between the UAE president and the Kurdistan Region prime minister.