MbZ and Tamim hold Abu Dhabi talks

UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and Qatar’s Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani met in Abu Dhabi to review bilateral relations and exchange views on regional developments, underscoring a period of sustained engagement between the two Gulf leaders.

Talks at Qasr Al Shati centred on strengthening what both sides described as fraternal ties, expanding co-operation across economic and investment sectors, and co-ordinating positions on issues affecting the wider Middle East. Officials said discussions also addressed efforts to support stability, de-escalation and diplomatic solutions to ongoing conflicts in the region.

Sheikh Mohamed welcomed Sheikh Tamim and reaffirmed what he termed the depth of relations between the UAE and Qatar, highlighting the importance of consultation and dialogue in navigating a complex geopolitical environment. Sheikh Tamim, for his part, emphasised the value of close co-ordination among Gulf states and the need to promote development and security through joint action.

The meeting forms part of a broader pattern of high-level exchanges since the Al-Ula declaration of January 2021, which ended a diplomatic rift between Qatar and four Arab states, including the UAE. That agreement paved the way for restoring diplomatic ties and reopening borders, enabling a gradual rebuilding of trust and institutional links.

Since then, economic engagement between Abu Dhabi and Doha has gathered pace. Trade and investment flows have expanded, supported by improved connectivity and renewed confidence among private sector players. Officials from both countries have pointed to opportunities in energy transition, logistics, tourism, financial services and advanced technology as areas of shared interest.

Energy policy remains a central pillar of the relationship. Both the UAE and Qatar are influential actors in global energy markets, with Qatar one of the world’s largest exporters of liquefied natural gas and the UAE a key crude producer and advocate of diversified energy strategies. While they operate within different segments of the market, co-ordination within multilateral frameworks and shared interest in stable prices and reliable supply chains create common ground.

Regional security featured prominently in the Abu Dhabi discussions. The Gulf continues to confront tensions linked to conflicts in Gaza, Sudan and Yemen, as well as broader rivalry between regional and international powers. Both leaders have consistently called for de-escalation, humanitarian access and diplomatic solutions grounded in international law.

On Gaza, Gulf states have pressed for a ceasefire and increased humanitarian relief, while also reiterating support for a political horizon that addresses Palestinian aspirations. The UAE has combined diplomatic engagement with large-scale aid deliveries, and Qatar has played a mediation role in negotiations over hostages and temporary pauses in fighting. Their parallel efforts illustrate complementary approaches within a shared strategic framework.

Sudan’s conflict, which has displaced millions and strained neighbouring countries, has also drawn sustained attention from Gulf capitals. Diplomatic initiatives aimed at brokering talks between rival factions have involved multiple regional actors, reflecting concern over instability along Red Sea trade routes and its humanitarian impact. Coordination between Abu Dhabi and Doha is seen by analysts as part of a wider attempt to prevent further fragmentation.

Beyond crisis management, both leaders stressed development and prosperity as foundations for long-term stability. Economic diversification programmes in the Gulf have accelerated over the past decade, with the UAE pursuing its national industrial and digital strategies and Qatar advancing its National Vision 2030 agenda. Collaboration in infrastructure, education, climate policy and emerging industries offers scope for tangible gains.

Financial markets have responded positively to improved intra-Gulf relations. Cross-border investments, joint ventures and sovereign wealth fund activity signal a pragmatic turn towards integration. The Abu Dhabi Investment Authority and the Qatar Investment Authority are among the region’s most prominent global investors, and policy alignment can amplify their international reach.

Diplomats note that the symbolism of regular leader-level engagement carries weight in a region where personal rapport among rulers often shapes political direction. Meetings such as the one in Abu Dhabi serve both to consolidate bilateral ties and to project an image of cohesion within the Gulf Co-operation Council.

While differences in foreign policy emphasis can persist among Gulf states, the overarching trajectory since 2021 has been towards dialogue and institutional rebuilding. Embassies have reopened, joint committees have resumed work, and business delegations have resumed travel. The latest talks signal continuity in that approach.