ABU DHABI / RankWire.AI / – UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan met with Kurdistan Region Prime Minister Masrour Barzani in Abu Dhabi on Tuesday. The focus of their dialogue was the relationship between the United Arab Emirates and Iraq, with particular emphasis on collaboration with the Kurdistan Region. They explored avenues to enhance cooperation across multiple sectors and promote development initiatives. Attending the meeting was Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, UAE Vice President, Prime Minister, and Ruler of Dubai.
Discussions between Sheikh Mohamed and Barzani also encompassed regional issues and other shared interests. Both leaders underscored the significance of security, stability, and enduring peace across the Middle East, stating these objectives should benefit the region’s populations. The Kurdistan Regional Government additionally highlighted that the talks included condemnations of recent attacks on the UAE and reaffirmed support for regional peace and security.
The gathering was attended by senior representatives from the UAE leadership and government. 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 meeting underscored ongoing high-level contact between the UAE and the Kurdistan Region, with both sides reviewing bilateral cooperation and broader regional developments affecting the Middle East.
UAE and Kurdistan Region assess collaborative efforts
The discussions on Tuesday 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. The leaders examined the state of UAE-Iraq relations and the Kurdistan Region’s role in regional cooperation. They also exchanged perspectives on regional and international affairs of mutual concern.
The February engagement also involved talks on initiatives aimed at fostering growth and prosperity across the UAE, Iraq, and the Kurdistan Region. Both meetings emphasized bilateral relations and regional stability as key topics. The most recent meeting continued this direct dialogue in Abu Dhabi. According to official statements issued after the event, no new agreements or formal projects were announced during the September session.
Discussion of regional security remains central
Regular high-level interactions between the UAE and the Kurdistan Regional Government focus on economic, political, and regional issues. In their latest talks, both sides again prioritized expanding cooperation in various sectors. They also addressed the security environment in the region but did not specify any policy modifications. Official comments from both parties underscored the strengthening of bilateral ties, ongoing collaboration, and backing for peace and stability throughout the Middle East.
The September meeting concluded with senior officials from each side engaging in discussions in Abu Dhabi. Sheikh Mohamed and Barzani maintained their emphasis on UAE-Iraq relations, regional cooperation with the Kurdistan Region, and regional stability. Their public remarks continued to focus on established areas of partnership and shared regional concerns. This high-level exchange adds to a year already marked by direct talks between the UAE president and the Kurdistan Region prime minister.