On 27–28 March 2026, President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy paid a working visit to the United Arab Emirates.
During the visit to Abu Dhabi, the Head of State held a meeting with the President of the UAE and Ruler of Abu Dhabi, Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan.
The parties discussed the regional security situation, in particular threats related to missile and drone attacks, as well as the impact of escalation on global energy markets, including the situation around the Strait of Hormuz.
Special attention was paid to practical cooperation in the protection of civilians and critical infrastructure. The President of Ukraine informed about Ukraine’s experience in countering aerial threats and emphasized readiness to share relevant expertise.
The leaders underscored the importance of strengthening long-term bilateral partnership between Ukraine and the UAE, particularly in the areas of security, defence, investment and technology.
As a result of the meeting, agreements were reached on advancing cooperation in the field of security and defence. It was also announced that a framework agreement on defence cooperation is expected to be signed in the near future. The parties continue to elaborate practical mechanisms of interaction.
Particular note was made of the ratification of the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement, which opens new opportunities for bilateral trade and investment.
As part of the visit, the President of Ukraine also met with Ukrainian experts working in the UAE and contributing to strengthening protection systems. The discussion focused on the results of their work and further steps of cooperation with the Emirati side.
The President emphasized the importance of joint efforts to ensure stability and protect lives in the face of modern threats and reaffirmed Ukraine’s openness to deepening mutually beneficial partnership with the UAE.