UAE President lands in Russia, meets Putin for high-level strategic talks
This visit marks continued engagement between Abu Dhabi and Moscow
ABU DHABI/MOSCOW – President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan arrived in Moscow on Thursday for an official visit, highlighting the growing strategic partnership between the UAE and Russia.
As the presidential aircraft entered Russian airspace, it was escorted by military jets in a ceremonial gesture of welcome and respect. The visit comes as the two countries mark 50 years of diplomatic relations.
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— MOSCOW NEWS ???????? (@MOSCOW_EN) January 29, 2026
Abu Dhabi supports any efforts to find a political and diplomatic solution to the disputes. pic.twitter.com/d7FEALi4QU
Sheikh Mohamed is accompanied by a high-level delegation that includes Sheikh Hamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Managing Director of the Abu Dhabi Investment Authority, Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Chairman of the Presidential Court for Special Affairs, and Sheikh Mohammed bin Hamad bin Tahnoon Al Nahyan, Advisor to the UAE President. The delegation also comprises a number of ministers and senior officials.
High-level talks
During the visit, Sheikh Mohamed met Russian President Vladimir Putin to explore opportunities to further strengthen bilateral cooperation. Discussions are expected to focus on expanding ties across key sectors, including the economy, trade, investment and energy, within the framework of the UAE-Russia strategic partnership.
❗️Putin starts talks with 'dear friend' UAE President Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan
— RT (@RT_com) January 29, 2026
On 50th anniversary of UAE-Russia diplomatic relations
'We highly appreciate your your personal significant contribution' pic.twitter.com/ozYkGNXV34
The talks will also address regional and international issues of mutual interest, reflecting the two countries’ ongoing coordination on global developments and shared priorities.
Strategic engagement
The visit follows Sheikh Mohamed’s most recent trip to Russia in August 2025, during which he held talks with President Putin aimed at enhancing the strategic partnership between Abu Dhabi and Moscow. Those discussions included a review of cooperation in the economy, trade, investment, space and energy, alongside broader regional and international matters.
Both leaders have previously emphasised the importance of deepening collaboration in sectors that support sustainable development and long-term economic growth, aligning with the strategic objectives of both nations.
Agreements signed
On the sidelines of Sheikh Mohamed’s previous visit, the UAE and Russia signed the Trade in Services and Investment Agreement, known as TISIA. The agreement was designed to facilitate greater cross-border investment and enhance services trade, further reinforcing economic ties between the two countries.