Islamabad, December 26, 2025 – Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif warmly received the President of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Ruler of Abu Dhabi, Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, during his first official visit to Pakistan on Friday. The historic visit aimed to further strengthen the longstanding fraternal ties between the two nations and explore avenues for enhanced collaboration across multiple sectors.
Sheikh Mohamed’s aircraft was escorted by a formation of JF-17 fighter jets as it entered Pakistani airspace, and he was greeted at Nur Khan Airbase with a 21-gun salute, a guard of honour, and the presence of senior officials, including Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Senator Ishaq Dar, Chief of Army Staff Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, and other cabinet members.
During the high-level discussions, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed emphasized the importance of expanding bilateral cooperation in areas such as economic development, investment, energy, infrastructure, information technology, and people-to-people exchanges. Both leaders also highlighted the potential for increased trade and explored ways to deepen engagement across strategic sectors.
The talks also covered regional and international developments, with both sides reaffirming their commitment to close coordination on matters of mutual interest. Expressing satisfaction with the positive trajectory of Pakistan-UAE relations, the leaders reiterated their determination to work together for peace, stability, and sustainable development in the region.
To mark the occasion, the Government of Pakistan released a special welcome song titled “Ahlan wa Sahlan, Marhaba”, featuring highlights of Sheikh Mohamed’s ceremonial reception, his interactions with Prime Minister Shehbaz, and symbolic gestures from children presenting flowers, reflecting the warmth and goodwill of the Pakistani people.
The visit, though lasting just one day, is expected to further consolidate the deep brotherly ties between Pakistan and the UAE and strengthen their strategic partnership for years to come.