ISLAMABAD – President of United Arab Emirates and Ruler of Abu Dhabi Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan landed in Islamabad at invitation of Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif, marking his first official visit to Pakistan since assuming the UAE presidency.
A stunning aerial spectacle greeted UAE President as his aircraft entered Pakistani airspace. Pakistan Air Force JF-17 Thunder fighter jets scrambled into formation, providing prestigious escort, soaring alongside the presidential plane in a display of unmatched air power and friendship. The formation symbolized mutual trust, respect, and the ironclad bond between Pakistan and the UAE.
UAE President’s aircraft receives a warm welcome as PAF JF-17 Thunder jets escort it through Pakistani airspace, symbolizing strong Pakistan-UAE ties. 🇵🇰🇦🇪 pic.twitter.com/Dg8XEa146G
— Pakistan Truth (@pakistantruth_) December 26, 2025
At Nur Khan Airbase, Sheikh Mohamed was received with full ceremonial honors by PM Shehbaz Sharif, Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, Chief of Defence Staff Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, and other senior officials. A 21-gun salute marked his arrival, while Islamabad glittered with both countries’ national flags and large portraits of the leaders. Authorities even declared a public holiday to ensure smooth security arrangements.
The visit will feature high-level discussions between UAE President and Prime Minister, covering bilateral ties, regional challenges, and global developments. Analysts highlight the visit’s critical timing amid regional tensions, with expectations of dialogue on trade, deployment of an international force in Gaza, and reducing tensions along the Pakistan-Afghanistan border.
This state visit follows Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s one-day UAE trip on June 12, attended by Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, during which the invitation was extended. Sheikh Mohamed, elected UAE President in May 2022, had previously visited Pakistan in January 2023 for a private trip to Rahim Yar Khan, where he met officials from the PDM government.
The official visit is set to include bilateral negotiations and the signing of memorandums of understanding (MoUs), strengthening cooperation in trade, investment, energy, development, and regional stability. The Pakistani Foreign Office stated:
“This visit shows enduring friendship between two Islamic nations and emphasizes both nations’ commitment to expanding cooperation across key sectors.”
With Islamabad on high security alert, officials stress the visit’s strategic importance for regional diplomacy, aiming to fortify bilateral relations, promote peace and stability, and drive joint economic and development projects.
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