Islamabad: UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan will undertake his first official visit to Pakistan on Friday, 26 December 2025. The visit follows an invitation from Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif. Accompanied by a high-level delegation of ministers and senior officials, the UAE leader will meet the prime minister in Islamabad to discuss bilateral ties and mutual concerns.
The UAE President visit Pakistan provides a platform to review relations and advance cooperation. Pakistan and the UAE maintain strong diplomatic, economic and cultural links, supported by a large Pakistani community in the Emirates. The UAE ranks among Pakistan’s top trading partners and a major remittance source.
Details of Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Pakistan Visit
Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Pakistan visit marks his inaugural trip as UAE president. He previously met Prime Minister Sharif in Rahim Yar Khan in January 2025, but this engagement holds official status. The Foreign Office announced the schedule on 24 December 2025.
During the one-day visit, discussions will cover the full range of bilateral relations. The leaders will exchange views on regional and international matters. The itinerary includes a formal meeting at the Prime Minister’s House. Security measures have prompted a local holiday in Islamabad Capital Territory on 26 December, though essential services remain operational.
The delegation’s composition underscores the visit’s importance. Ministers from trade, investment and energy sectors join the UAE president. This setup facilitates direct talks on practical collaboration.
Agenda for UAE President Official Visit Pakistan
UAE President official visit Pakistan focuses on enhancing partnerships. The Foreign Office stated: “The visit will provide an important opportunity to further strengthen the longstanding brotherly relations between Pakistan and the United Arab Emirates.”
Key areas include trade, investment, energy and development. Both nations aim to build on recent agreements. In April 2025, Pakistan and the UAE signed multiple memoranda of understanding. These covered culture, consular affairs and the establishment of a UAE-Pakistan Joint Business Council between their chambers of commerce.
The agenda also addresses regional stability. Pakistan and the UAE share interests in Middle East and South Asian affairs. Discussions may touch on economic corridors and infrastructure projects.
Strengthening Pakistan UAE Trade Ties
Pakistan UAE trade ties form a core element of the relationship. The UAE serves as a gateway for Pakistani exports to the Gulf. Official data indicate steady growth in bilateral trade.
Remittances from the UAE bolster Pakistan’s economy. Thousands of Pakistanis work in Emirati sectors like construction and services. These inflows support families and contribute to foreign exchange reserves.
Investment flows have increased. In January 2024, agreements worth over US$3 billion targeted railways and economic zones. The UAE has provided financial aid during crises, including humanitarian assistance after floods. Defence cooperation remains robust. Joint exercises and technology sharing enhance security ties. Energy partnerships involve oil imports and renewable projects.
The large Pakistani expatriate community, exceeding 1.5 million, strengthens cultural bonds. Community events and direct flights facilitate exchanges.
Background
Pakistan and the UAE established diplomatic relations in 1971. Early ties focused on labour migration and economic support. The UAE offered aid during Pakistan’s 1971 challenges.
Over decades, relations evolved. The UAE became a key investor in Pakistan’s infrastructure. Projects include ports and power plants. In 2019, the UAE pledged US$3 billion in balance-of-payments support.
Recent years saw intensified engagement. Prime Minister Sharif visited Abu Dhabi in June 2025, discussing trade enhancements. The Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi, Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, visited Pakistan in February 2025.
These interactions built momentum. The April 2025 MoUs formalised cooperation in new areas. The Joint Business Council aims to boost private sector links. Economic interdependence grew. Pakistan exports rice, textiles and fruits to the UAE. Imports include petroleum products and machinery. Trade volumes reached US$8 billion in recent years, with potential for expansion.
Remittances from the UAE averaged US$5 billion annually pre-2025. This flow supports South Asian households and stabilises currencies.
Cultural ties include shared Islamic heritage. Educational exchanges and tourism add depth. The UAE hosts Pakistani schools and mosques. In South Asia, the relationship influences regional dynamics. UAE investments in Pakistan aid poverty reduction and job creation. Stronger ties counterbalance influences from other powers.
Challenges exist. Labour rights for expatriates require attention. Both sides address these through consular mechanisms.
What’s Next after UAE President Visit Pakistan
Post-visit, working groups may implement agreements. Follow-up meetings could focus on investment deals. The UAE President visit Pakistan opens doors for joint ventures in technology and green energy.
Analysts expect announcements on new MoUs. These might target digital economy and climate initiatives. The visit reinforces commitment to mutual growth. Future engagements could include multilateral forums like the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation.
The UAE President visit Pakistan concludes with optimism for expanded collaboration. This step forward promises sustained progress in bilateral relations.
Published in SouthAsianDesk, December 25th, 2025
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