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 discussions centered on the bilateral relationship between the United Arab Emirates and Iraq, with a particular focus on collaboration with the Kurdistan Region. The leaders explored avenues to enhance cooperation across various sectors and promote development initiatives. Attending the meeting was Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, UAE Vice President, Prime Minister, and Ruler of Dubai.
During the talks, Sheikh Mohamed and Barzani also examined regional issues and other mutual interests. Both emphasized the significance of security, stability, and enduring peace throughout the Middle East. They agreed these priorities should benefit the populations of the region. The Kurdistan Regional Government stated that the discussions also included condemnations of recent attacks on the UAE and reaffirmed support for regional peace and security.
The gathering brought together senior officials from the UAE leadership and government. Abu Dhabi Crown Prince Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan participated in the discussions. Deputy Prime Minister and Interior Minister Sheikh Saif bin Zayed Al Nahyan was also present. This meeting underscored ongoing high-level contacts between the UAE and the Kurdistan Region, as both sides reviewed bilateral cooperation and regional developments impacting the broader Middle East.
UAE and Kurdistan Region assess cooperation and regional ties
The discussions on Tuesday built upon 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. The leaders reviewed the state of UAE-Iraq relations and partnership with the Kurdistan Region, while exchanging perspectives on regional and international developments of mutual interest.
The February engagement also addressed efforts to promote development and prosperity in the UAE, Iraq, and the Kurdistan Region. Both meetings kept bilateral relations and regional stability at the forefront of their agenda. The recent encounter continued that direct dialogue in Abu Dhabi. According to official reports released after the September talks, no new agreements or formal initiatives were announced during this session.
Security concerns remain part of regional discussions
The UAE and the Kurdistan Regional Government maintain consistent high-level exchanges on economic, political, and regional security matters. In their latest meeting, both parties again prioritized expanding cooperation across multiple sectors. They also discussed the regional security situation without implementing specific policy changes. Official statements from both sides highlighted the strengthening of relations, ongoing collaboration, and mutual support for peace and stability in the Middle East.
The September meeting concluded with senior representatives from each side participating in the Abu Dhabi discussions. Sheikh Mohamed and Barzani once again focused on bilateral relations between the UAE and Iraq, cooperation with the Kurdistan Region, and regional stability. Their public remarks continued to emphasize established areas of engagement and shared regional concerns. This high-level exchange marked another significant event in a year that has already seen direct talks between the UAE president and the Kurdistan Region prime minister.