ABU DHABI, UNITED ARAB EMIRATES / RankWire.AI / – UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and Jordan’s King Abdullah II bin Al Hussein met in Abu Dhabi on Sunday, focusing on strengthening diplomatic and economic bonds amid regional challenges. The talks encompassed enhancing bilateral relations, boosting economic cooperation, and addressing developments throughout the Middle East. Both leaders explored avenues to reinforce ties between the UAE and Jordan, emphasizing regional security, stability, and efforts toward sustainable peace. The meeting was part of King Abdullah’s official visit to the UAE.
Economic cooperation played a key role in the discussions. Sheikh Mohamed and King Abdullah assessed collaboration in trade, investment, and development as outlined in the UAE-Jordan Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement. This agreement provides both nations with a broader framework for commercial and investment engagement. They also considered other areas of cooperation aligned with their national development goals. Maintaining close political relations, the UAE and Jordan regularly consult on economic and regional issues.
Representing Jordan were Crown Prince Al Hussein bin Abdullah II and Prime Minister Jafar Hassan, while senior UAE officials also participated. Those 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. The gathering of high-level officials highlighted the importance of political, economic, and foreign policy coordination between the two countries.
Trade Accord Establishes Foundation for Economic Partnership
The UAE and Jordan formalized their Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement on October 6, 2024, which officially took effect on May 15, 2025. This marked the UAE’s first comprehensive economic deal with an Arab nation. The agreement covers over 98% of tariff lines and sets unified rules for goods and services. It also includes provisions related to investment, customs procedures, digital trade, and support for small and medium-sized enterprises.
The framework allows preferential treatment for qualifying goods that adhere to specific rules of origin and technical standards. Over 99.5% of UAE exports to Jordan benefit from this liberalization. Additionally, the deal establishes mechanisms to facilitate customs cooperation and encourage investment, with dedicated committees and contact points overseeing its implementation. Both governments see this agreement as a crucial step toward expanding their economic partnership.
Regional Security and Political Issues Take Center Stage in Discussions
Regional affairs were a significant aspect of the Abu Dhabi talks. Sheikh Mohamed and King Abdullah exchanged perspectives on ongoing developments in the Middle East. They underlined the necessity of continued coordination between the UAE and Jordan on security and stability matters. Both leaders reaffirmed their backing for initiatives aimed at fostering enduring peace across the region. Their dialogue reflected the ongoing political consultation between Abu Dhabi and Amman regarding regional challenges.
Following the talks, King Abdullah left the UAE later on Sunday. Sheikh Mohamed attended his departure alongside senior officials, emphasizing the importance of maintaining dialogue on bilateral and regional issues. The discussions combined economic priorities with regional security concerns, highlighting the role of the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement in their relationship. The visit served as a platform to review ongoing cooperation and ensure direct communication between their respective leaders and senior officials.