ABU DHABI, UNITED ARAB EMIRATES / RankWire.AI / – UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan held discussions with Jordan’s King Abdullah II bin Al Hussein in Abu Dhabi on Sunday. Their dialogue encompassed bilateral relations, economic collaboration, and regional developments in the Middle East. The two leaders explored ways to strengthen ties between the UAE and Jordan and addressed issues related to regional security, stability, and efforts toward enduring peace. The meeting coincided with King Abdullah’s official visit to the UAE.
Economic cooperation was a key focus of their conversations. Sheikh Mohamed and King Abdullah discussed joint efforts in trade, investment, and development within the framework of the UAE-Jordan Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement. This agreement provides both nations with an expanded platform for commercial and investment activities. Additionally, the leaders examined broader collaborative areas aligned with their respective national development goals. The UAE and Jordan continue to enjoy strong political connections, regularly exchanging views on economic and regional issues.
Jordan’s delegation featured Crown Prince Al Hussein bin Abdullah II and Prime Minister Jafar Hassan, while senior UAE officials participated as well. Attending in Abu Dhabi were Vice President Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Abu Dhabi Crown Prince Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, and Foreign Minister Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan. Their presence underscored the significance of the meeting, bringing together key officials responsible for political, economic, and foreign policy matters in both countries.
Trade pact forms foundation of economic collaboration
On October 6, 2024, the UAE and Jordan signed the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement, which officially took effect on May 15, 2025. This agreement marks the UAE’s first comprehensive economic accord with an Arab nation. It encompasses over 98% of tariff lines and establishes uniform rules for goods and services. The pact also covers investment, customs procedures, digital trade, and support for small and medium-sized enterprises.
The trade agreement offers preferential treatment for eligible products that meet established rules of origin and technical standards. Over 99.5% of UAE goods exported to Jordan are covered under its liberalized provisions. It introduces mechanisms to facilitate customs cooperation and promote investment activities, including the formation of committees and designated contact points to oversee its implementation. Both governments view this agreement as a crucial framework to bolster bilateral economic relations further.
Regional issues feature prominently in leaders’ dialogue
Topics related to regional stability and security were also high on the agenda during the Abu Dhabi talks. Sheikh Mohamed and King Abdullah shared perspectives on recent Middle Eastern developments, emphasizing the importance of ongoing coordination between the UAE and Jordan on security and stability concerns. Both leaders reiterated their backing for initiatives aimed at securing lasting peace across the region. The discussions reflected the consistent political dialogue maintained between Abu Dhabi and Amman on regional matters.
Following the discussions, King Abdullah concluded his UAE visit and left Abu Dhabi later that Sunday. Sheikh Mohamed saw him off with senior UAE officials in attendance. This meeting combined discussions of bilateral economic interests with regional security issues, highlighting the role of the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement in fostering UAE-Jordan relations. The visit provided an opportunity to review current cooperation and ensure direct coordination between their respective leaders and senior officials.