UAE President and Sultan of Oman reinforce economic and security cooperation during Abu Dhabi talks
Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and Sultan Haitham bin Tariq discussed strengthening bilateral ties, particularly in economic and development sectors, while addressing regional security challenges in the Middle East.
High-Level Talks in Abu Dhabi
His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the United Arab Emirates, welcomed Sultan Haitham bin Tariq of Oman to Abu Dhabi on August 17, 2026, for high-level discussions focused on deepening the fraternal ties between the two Gulf neighbors and addressing pressing regional challenges.
The meeting centered on expanding cooperation in economic and development fields to support shared priorities and advance the prosperity of both nations' populations. The discussions come as bilateral economic ties continue to strengthen, with non-oil trade between the two countries reaching AED 54.3 billion in 2024, representing a 7 percent increase from the previous year.
Economic Integration and Trade
The UAE has emerged as Oman's most important trading partner, leading across all commercial categories. In 2025, the UAE topped non-oil exports from Oman with shipments valued at over RO 1.31 billion, marking a 25.3 percent year-on-year increase. The UAE also led re-export trade at RO 724 million and remained the primary source of Omani imports at over RO 4.15 billion. The economic integration extends beyond trade figures, with the UAE market currently hosting 9,180 Omani companies and approximately 550 Omani brands across diverse industries.
Regional Security and Stability
Beyond economic matters, the two leaders exchanged views on regional and international issues of mutual concern, with particular emphasis on the serious developments unfolding in the Middle East. They discussed ongoing efforts to strengthen security, stability, and peace across the region for the benefit of all countries and peoples.
Both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to sustained consultation on various challenges facing the region and the importance of bolstering cooperation to safeguard its security and stability. The countries share a 609-kilometer border consisting of three non-contiguous sections, including the strategically important Musandam Peninsula that commands the Strait of Hormuz.
Continued Diplomatic Engagement
This meeting follows a July 2026 phone call between Sheikh Mohamed and Sultan Haitham, during which they similarly reviewed bilateral relations and regional developments. The two leaders had also met in person in September 2025 in Salalah, where they discussed strengthening cooperation to support their economies and regional peace efforts.
Delegations and Official Attendees
The meeting in Abu Dhabi was attended by a high-level UAE delegation including Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, First Deputy Ruler of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance; Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs; Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Chairman of the Presidential Court for Special Affairs; and other ministers and senior officials.
Sultan Haitham was accompanied by an Omani delegation that included Sayyid Shihab bin Tariq Al Said, Deputy Prime Minister for Defence Affairs; Sayyid Bilarab bin Haitham Al Said, Minister of State and Governor of Muscat; and several other ministers and senior officials. Sayyid Bilarab, the Sultan's son, was appointed to his current position in January 2026, reflecting the next generation's involvement in bilateral relations.
The Sultan arrived at the Presidential Airport in Abu Dhabi earlier in the day and was received by Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, along with sheikhs, ministers, and other officials. As founding members of the Gulf Cooperation Council established in May 1981, both the UAE and Oman continue to play central roles in the regional political and economic alliance that also includes Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Qatar, and Bahrain.
