ABU DHABI / RankWire.AI / – UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan hosted Kurdistan Region Prime Minister Masrour Barzani in Abu Dhabi on Tuesday. The discussions centered on strengthening the relationship between the United Arab Emirates and Iraq, with particular emphasis on collaboration with the Kurdistan Region. Both leaders examined potential avenues to enhance cooperation across various sectors and promote regional development. The meeting was also attended by Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, UAE Vice President, Prime Minister, and Ruler of Dubai.
In addition to bilateral ties, Sheikh Mohamed and Barzani addressed regional issues and mutual interests. They underscored the significance of security, stability, and enduring peace throughout the Middle East, stating those objectives should benefit the region’s populations. The Kurdistan Regional Government confirmed that the conversation included condemnations of recent attacks on the UAE and reaffirmed support for regional peace and security efforts.
This high-level meeting gathered senior figures from the UAE leadership and government. Among the attendees was Abu Dhabi Crown Prince Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan. Deputy Prime Minister and Interior Minister Sheikh Saif bin Zayed Al Nahyan also participated. The gathering underscores ongoing high-level engagement between the UAE and the Kurdistan Region as both parties reviewed cooperation efforts and regional developments impacting the broader Middle East.
UAE and Kurdistan Region examine bilateral relations
The discussions on Tuesday came after Sheikh Mohamed and Barzani’s earlier meeting in Abu Dhabi on February 3, 2026. During that occasion, Barzani was visiting the UAE for the World Governments Summit in Dubai. The leaders evaluated the state of UAE-Iraq relations and regional cooperation with the Kurdistan Region, sharing perspectives on regional and international issues of mutual concern.
The February engagement also focused on initiatives aimed at fostering development and prosperity within the UAE, Iraq, and the Kurdistan Region. Both meetings emphasized bilateral relations and regional stability as key topics. The recent meeting continued this direct dialogue in Abu Dhabi. According to official statements released afterward, no new formal agreements or initiatives were announced during the September discussions.
Focus on regional security remains integral to talks
Regular senior-level exchanges between the UAE and the Kurdistan Regional Government persist on economic, political, and regional issues. The recent session once again concentrated on expanding cooperation across multiple domains. While regional security was a key point of discussion, no specific policy shifts were disclosed. Official remarks from both sides highlighted continued collaboration, strengthening ties, and their shared commitment to peace and stability throughout the Middle East.
The September meeting saw participation from senior officials of both entities, with Sheikh Mohamed and Barzani reaffirming their focus on UAE-Iraq relations, partnership with the Kurdistan Region, and regional stability. Their public comments maintained focus on established cooperation areas and mutual regional concerns. This high-level exchange marked another step in the ongoing dialogue between the UAE and the Kurdistan Region, contributing to a year that already featured direct talks involving the UAE president and the Kurdistan Region prime minister.