Islamabad – The federal capital of Islamabad was filled with a sense of celebration on Friday as United Arab Emirates President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan arrived for his first official day-long visit.
This visit is a turning point in the history of Pak-UAE ties, as it is his maiden state visit as president.
The presidential plane was escorted by a formation of military jets, an immense show of respect and a sign that this would be a day of brotherhood and cooperation.
براہِ راست:متحدہ عرب امارات کے صدر عزت مآب محمد بن زائید النہیان کی نورخان ایئربیس راولپنڈی آمد https://t.co/Ic7pUbyvYK
— Government of Pakistan (@GovtofPakistan) December 26, 2025
A Historic Welcome at Nur Khan Airbase
On arrival, the Emirati president received a 21-gun salute and a warm welcome from Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif.
Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif welcomes President of UAE H.E. Mohamed bin Zayed al-Nahyan upon his arrival at Noor Khan Base. pic.twitter.com/L168FwjEjb
— Government of Pakistan (@GovtofPakistan) December 26, 2025
The significance of the visit was further highlighted by the presence of high-ranking officials, including Field Marshal Asim Munir and Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar.
In order to enable the citizens to participate in the spirit of the day, a public holiday was announced throughout the capital.
The President of the UAE was presented with the Guard of Honour at Nur Khan Airbase in Rawalpindi upon arrival.
President of UAE His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan was presented Guard of Honour upon arrival at Noor Khan Airbase Rawalpindi. pic.twitter.com/n6Ri2lAjsn
— Government of Pakistan (@GovtofPakistan) December 26, 2025
These actions underline the historical context of Pak-UAE ties, which have developed into more than mere diplomatic ties, but a stable relationship based on mutual culture and financial aid.
Also See: Islamabad Issues Traffic Plan as UAE President Arrives on Official Visit
High-Level Delegation and Diplomacy
According to the UAE state agency WAM, the delegation accompanying the UAE President includes Sheikh Sultan bin Hamdan Al Nahyan and Sheikh Mohammed bin Hamad bin Tahnoun Al Nahyan, both senior advisers to the President.
Also joining the visit are Salem Mohammed Al Zaabi, the UAE Ambassador to Pakistan, alongside several other ministers and senior officials.
Strengthening the Economic Backbone
The main objective of this visit is to examine and broaden the whole range of bilateral relations.
*متحدہ عرب امارات کے صدر کا دورہِ پاکستان ، سفارتی تعلقات میں نئی جہت*
— PTV News (@PTVNewsOfficial) December 26, 2025
متحدہ عرب امارات کے صدر *شیخ محمد بن زاید ال نہیان* آج پاکستان کا دورہ کر رہےہیں
برادر اسلامی ملک یو اے ای کے صدر کا پاکستان آمد پر پر شاندار تاریخی استقبال کیا جائے گا
یو اے ای کے صدر کا دورہ پاکستان… pic.twitter.com/kjDBd6WAV2
The ties are also a crucial source of trade and remittances as thousands of Pakistani expatriates live in the Emirates and work there.
In their meetings, the leaders will talk about how to strengthen their cooperation on energy, investment, and regional stability.
Pak-UAE ties should be enhanced between the two countries because the UAE is one of the largest trading partners of Pakistan.
Recent deals, including the establishment of a Joint Business Council, indicate a strong desire to transform these historical ties into economic development in the future.
A Shared Vision for Regional Stability
In addition to business and trade, the two leaders will share their opinions on international matters of common concern.
The two countries share a common belief in the creation of a peaceful and prosperous region.
The visit will be a valuable experience of extending the past memoranda of understanding that encompass all issues of cultural exchange to consular affairs.