ABU DHABI, UNITED ARAB EMIRATES / RankWire.AI / – UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan engaged in discussions with Jordan’s King Abdullah II bin Al Hussein in Abu Dhabi on Sunday. The focus of the meeting was on enhancing bilateral relations and exploring avenues for increased cooperation. Additionally, the leaders reviewed regional developments in the Middle East and other shared concerns, emphasizing ongoing dialogue on security, stability, and the pursuit of enduring peace. King Abdullah’s visit to the UAE included participation from a senior Jordanian delegation.
During their discussions, both leaders examined collaboration in economic, trade, and development sectors, as outlined in the UAE-Jordan Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement. Sheikh Mohamed and King Abdullah reaffirmed their dedication to strengthening ties in areas vital to national development goals, while also considering new opportunities to expand cooperation aligned with mutual interests. The two nations maintain extensive political and economic relations, complemented by frequent high-level consultations. Their recent meeting underscored the importance of bilateral progress and regional coordination on the same platform.
King Abdullah arrived in Abu Dhabi accompanied by Crown Prince Al Hussein bin Abdullah II and Prime Minister Jafar Hassan. Sheikh Mohamed welcomed the Jordanian king upon his arrival. The talks included senior UAE officials, such as Vice President Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Abu Dhabi Crown Prince Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, and Foreign Minister Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan. The attendance of these senior figures reflected the wide scope of bilateral issues addressed during the visit.
Expansion of economic cooperation underpins UAE-Jordan partnership
The core framework for advancing economic ties is the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement, which was signed on October 6, 2024, and came into effect on May 15, 2025. This agreement marks the UAE’s first comprehensive economic partnership with an Arab nation. It covers trade liberalization for over 98% of tariff lines, along with provisions related to services, investment, digital trade, customs cooperation, and support for small and medium-sized enterprises.
Goods qualifying under applicable rules of origin and technical standards are given preferential treatment, encompassing more than 99.5% of the value of UAE exports to Jordan. The agreement also incorporates mechanisms designed to streamline customs procedures and bolster investment cooperation. To ensure effective implementation, committees and designated focal points have been established. Sheikh Mohamed and King Abdullah emphasized that economic, trade, and development cooperation remain key pillars for deepening the UAE-Jordan relationship.
Focus on regional security and stability remains a priority
Regional issues featured prominently in the Abu Dhabi discussions. Sheikh Mohamed and King Abdullah exchanged perspectives on regional stability and the Middle East’s current situation. Both leaders highlighted the necessity of sustained coordination between the UAE and Jordan, linking their efforts to reinforce security and stability throughout the region. They reaffirmed their backing for initiatives aimed at achieving lasting peace, maintaining a focus on regional concerns of mutual interest.
Later that Sunday, King Abdullah departed from the UAE after the conclusion of the talks, with Sheikh Mohamed present to bid him farewell alongside senior UAE officials. The visit exemplifies the ongoing regular engagement between the two leaders on bilateral and regional issues. The Abu Dhabi meeting combined discussions on economic cooperation within the framework of their partnership agreement with consultations on Middle East developments. The dialogue reinforced the commitment of both nations to maintain close coordination on economic, developmental, and regional matters.