ABU DHABI, UNITED ARAB EMIRATES / RankWire.AI / – UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan met with Jordan’s King Abdullah II bin Al Hussein in Abu Dhabi on Sunday. The gathering centered on strengthening UAE-Jordan relations and exploring avenues to enhance bilateral collaboration. Additionally, the leaders examined regional developments across the Middle East and other shared concerns, emphasizing ongoing dialogue regarding regional security, stability, and enduring peace. King Abdullah’s visit included a senior Jordanian delegation to the UAE.
During the discussions, the leaders assessed cooperation across economic, trade, and development sectors as part of the UAE-Jordan Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement. Sheikh Mohamed and King Abdullah reaffirmed their dedication to deepening ties in areas vital to their national development agendas. They also explored strategies to broaden cooperation aligned with mutual interests. The two nations enjoy extensive political and economic relations, complemented by regular high-level meetings. Their recent encounter underscored the importance of bilateral development initiatives and regional coordination being prioritized equally.
King Abdullah arrived in Abu Dhabi accompanied by Crown Prince Al Hussein bin Abdullah II and Prime Minister Jafar Hassan. Sheikh Mohamed warmly received the Jordanian monarch upon his arrival. Senior UAE officials, including Vice President Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, also participated in the talks. Attendance by Abu Dhabi Crown Prince Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and Foreign Minister Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan reflected the broad scope of bilateral issues discussed during the visit.
Expansion of Economic Cooperation Strengthens UAE-Jordan Ties
The primary framework for enhanced economic collaboration is the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement, signed on October 6, 2024, and effective from May 15, 2025. This marked the UAE’s inaugural comprehensive economic partnership with an Arab nation. The agreement liberalizes over 98% of tariff lines, encompassing trade, services, investment, digital trade, customs cooperation, and support for small and medium-sized enterprises.
Goods meeting the relevant rules of origin and technical standards enjoy preferential treatment under the pact, covering more than 99.5% of the value of UAE exports to Jordan. The agreement includes mechanisms designed to streamline customs procedures and promote investment. Additionally, it establishes committees and focal points to oversee its implementation. Sheikh Mohamed and King Abdullah highlighted the importance of advancing cooperation in trade, economic development, and related sectors as a means to further solidify UAE-Jordan relations.
Focus on Regional Security and Stability Remains Critical
A significant portion of the Abu Dhabi talks was dedicated to regional security and stability. Sheikh Mohamed and King Abdullah exchanged perspectives on issues impacting the Middle East and the broader region. Both leaders emphasized the necessity of ongoing coordination between the UAE and Jordan, associating this cooperation with efforts to bolster security and stability throughout the area. They also reaffirmed their support for initiatives aimed at achieving lasting peace, maintaining a focus on shared regional concerns.
Later on Sunday, King Abdullah departed the UAE after the conclusion of the discussions. Sheikh Mohamed was on hand to see off the Jordanian monarch, alongside senior UAE officials. The visit continued the pattern of regular engagement between the two leaders concerning bilateral and regional matters. Their meeting in Abu Dhabi combined discussions on economic partnership with consultations on Middle East developments. The talks reaffirmed the UAE and Jordan’s mutual commitment to sustained coordination on economic, developmental, and regional issues.