Pakistan president bids farewell to outgoing UAE ambassador
Hamad Obaid Alzaabi completes tenure in the South Asian country after seven years of service
DUBAI/ISLAMABAD – President Asif Ali Zardari on Tuesday received Hamad Obaid Ibrahim Salem Alzaabi, the outgoing Ambassador of the United Arab Emirates, at Aiwan-e-Sadr in Islamabad to mark the conclusion of his tenure.
The President paid tribute to the ambassador’s services, congratulated him on his successful assignment, and expressed best wishes for his future endeavours.
During the meeting, President Zardari emphasised the importance of strengthening Pakistan’s long-standing relations with the UAE. He said Islamabad values its deep-rooted ties with Abu Dhabi, which are built on common faith, culture and mutual trust.
H.E. Asif Ali Zardari, President of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan, received H.E. Hamad Obaid Alzaabi, Ambassador of the United Arab Emirates in Islamabad, at Aiwan-e-Sadr to bid him farewell at the conclusion of his tenure in Pakistan, and extended best wishes for his future… pic.twitter.com/G8FM8TmAd2
— UAE Embassy PK (@uaeembassyisb) August 19, 2025
Hamad Obaid Alzaabi assumed his post in Islamabad on 19 September 2017. His diplomatic career began in 2004 as an Attaché with the UAE’s Diplomatic and Consular Corps, later serving at the Permanent Mission to the United Nations in New York.
Pakistan-UAE relations
The President commended Ambassador Alzaabi for his efforts in advancing bilateral cooperation across economic, cultural and diplomatic fields. He particularly noted the role played by the envoy in fostering closer people-to-people linkages and enhancing overall engagement between the two nations.
Zardari also extended gratitude to the UAE leadership for its continued support to Pakistan, especially during difficult times. He acknowledged the UAE’s assistance in humanitarian relief, development initiatives and investment. Reaffirming Pakistan’s commitment, he said both countries should continue working together in trade, energy, investment and human resource development.
According to the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the UAE remains one of the largest investors in Pakistan, with bilateral trade steadily growing over the years. Ambassador Alzaabi thanked the Government of Pakistan for its cooperation and hospitality, adding that the UAE would remain a steadfast partner of Pakistan.