Dubai Ruler hosts Pakistan President for strategic talks on regional cooperation
Sheikh Mohammed, Asif Ali Zardari stress regional stability and sustainable growth as shared priority
DUBAI – His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister, and Ruler of Dubai, welcomed Asif Ali Zardari, President of Pakistan, at Za’abeel Palace in Dubai on Wednesday.
The high-level meeting focused on bilateral ties, regional developments, and the expansion of cooperation in areas of mutual interest.
Both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to supporting security, stability, and sustainable development in the region.
Pakistan-UAE relations
The gathering included His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister, and Minister of Defence; Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, First Deputy Ruler of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance; and Sheikh Ahmed bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Second Deputy Ruler of Dubai.
Mohammed bin Rashid discusses bilateral ties, regional developments with Pakistani President#WamNews https://t.co/kMce0PQbF7 pic.twitter.com/cbVRloSJU1
— WAM English (@WAMNEWS_ENG) January 28, 2026
Discussions highlighted the UAE’s intention to deepen its strategic partnership with Pakistan, building on long-standing historical ties. President Zardari praised His Highness Sheikh Mohammed’s role in advancing bilateral relations and underscored the importance of cooperation in economic and developmental fields to benefit both nations.
Business and governance
The meeting took place alongside His Highness Sheikh Mohammed’s gathering with dignitaries, business leaders, and senior officials. Dialogue focused on strengthening the business environment, advancing public-private partnerships, and enhancing government efficiency to support a prosperous, sustainable future.
???????? ???????? President Asif Ali Zardari met H.H. Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum @HHShkMohd at Zabeel Palace, Dubai. The meeting focused on strengthening Pakistan–UAE ties, particularly in trade, investment, logistics, infrastructure and technology. pic.twitter.com/upvDy3NY8f
— The President of Pakistan (@PresOfPakistan) January 28, 2026
Among the attendees were Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, President of the Dubai Civil Aviation Authority and Chairman of Emirates Airline; Sheikh Mansoor bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, President of the UAE National Olympic Committee; and Sheikha Latifa bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairperson of Dubai Culture and Arts Authority, alongside other senior officials.
From Pakistan, the delegation included First Lady Aseefa Bhutto Zardari, Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari, Bakhtawar Bhutto-Zardari, Interior Minister Syed Mohsin Raza Naqvi, Presidential Advisor Asim Hussain, and Ambassador Shafqat Ali Khan.
National talent
His Highness Sheikh Mohammed also met top graduates from the Zayed II Military College and Dubai Police Academy, commending their discipline, performance, and achievements. He emphasised that investing in national talent and educational institutions is essential for shaping future leaders, strengthening defence capabilities, and maintaining security and the rule of law.