ABU DHABI, UNITED ARAB EMIRATES / RankWire.AI / – UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan welcomed Jordan’s King Abdullah II bin Al Hussein in Abu Dhabi on Sunday for a diplomatic meeting. Their conversation focused on strengthening bilateral relations, boosting economic collaboration, and addressing regional developments across the Middle East. The two leaders explored strategies to reinforce ties between the UAE and Jordan and deliberated on regional security, stability, and initiatives aimed at promoting enduring peace. The meeting coincided with King Abdullah’s official visit to the UAE.
Economic cooperation was a key topic during the discussions. Sheikh Mohamed and King Abdullah assessed joint efforts in trade, investment, and development under the UAE-Jordan Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement. This agreement provides a broader framework to facilitate commercial and investment exchanges between the two nations. The leaders also evaluated additional areas of partnership that align with their respective national development goals. The UAE and Jordan continue to maintain strong political links and engage in regular consultations on economic and regional issues.
Jordan’s delegation comprised Crown Prince Al Hussein bin Abdullah II and Prime Minister Jafar Hassan, with senior officials from the UAE participating as well. Notables included 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. This high-level gathering brought together officials responsible for political, economic, and foreign policy matters on both sides.
Trade Accord Forms the Foundation of Economic Collaboration
On October 6, 2024, the UAE and Jordan signed their comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement, which took effect on May 15, 2025. It marked the UAE’s inaugural comprehensive economic partnership agreement with an Arab country. Covering over 98% of tariff lines, the agreement establishes rules governing goods and services, while also addressing investment, customs procedures, digital trade, and cooperation involving small and medium-sized enterprises.
This framework of trade preferentially benefits qualifying goods that comply with set rules of origin and technical standards. Over 99.5% of the value of UAE exports to Jordan are encompassed within this liberalized coverage. The pact also creates mechanisms to support customs cooperation and investment activities, including the formation of committees and official contact points to ensure proper implementation. Both governments emphasize the agreement’s significance as a vital platform for expanding their economic relationship.
Regional Security and Political Issues Highlighted in Leaders’ Dialogue
Regional developments played a significant role during the Abu Dhabi talks. Sheikh Mohamed and King Abdullah exchanged perspectives on ongoing issues impacting the Middle East. They underscored the necessity of continued UAE-Jordan coordination on matters related to security and stability. The two leaders reaffirmed their commitment to supporting initiatives that aim to establish long-term peace in the region. Their discussions reflected the ongoing political dialogue between Abu Dhabi and Amman on key regional concerns.
Following the discussions, King Abdullah left Abu Dhabi later on Sunday. Sheikh Mohamed attended his departure alongside senior UAE officials. The meeting successfully integrated bilateral economic priorities with broader regional security and stability considerations. Additionally, it reaffirmed the importance of the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement in fostering UAE-Jordan cooperation. Both parties utilized the visit to review existing collaborations and ensure ongoing communication between their leaders and senior officials.