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. Their discussions addressed strengthening bilateral relations, boosting economic collaboration, and regional developments across the Middle East. The two leaders explored methods to enhance ties between the UAE and Jordan, emphasizing regional security, stability, and the pursuit of enduring peace. The meeting coincided with King Abdullah’s official visit to the UAE.
Economic cooperation was a major focus of the conversation. Sheikh Mohamed and King Abdullah analyzed joint efforts in trade, investment, and development within the framework of the UAE-Jordan Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement. This agreement provides both nations with a broader platform for commercial and investment activities. Furthermore, the leaders examined wider cooperation areas aligned with their respective national development goals. The UAE and Jordan continue to maintain strong political connections, regularly consulting on economic and regional issues.
The Jordanian delegation included Crown Prince Al Hussein bin Abdullah II and Prime Minister Jafar Hassan, with senior UAE officials participating as well. Notable attendees from the UAE included Vice President Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan and Abu Dhabi Crown Prince Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, along with Foreign Minister Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan. The presence of these senior officials underscored the importance of this high-level dialogue, which addressed political, economic, and foreign policy matters of mutual concern.
Trade agreement becomes foundation for economic collaboration
On October 6, 2024, the UAE and Jordan signed the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement, which officially came into effect on May 15, 2025. This deal marked the UAE’s first comprehensive economic pact with an Arab nation, covering over 98% of tariff lines and establishing uniform rules for goods and services. The agreement also encompasses investment, customs procedures, digital trade, and cooperation among small and medium-sized enterprises.
The trade arrangement offers preferential access to qualifying goods that meet the agreed rules of origin and technical standards. More than 99.5% of the value of UAE exports to Jordan benefits from this liberalized trade regime. Additionally, the pact introduces mechanisms to facilitate customs cooperation and support investment flows. It creates committees and official contact points tasked with overseeing its implementation, positioning the agreement as a key pillar for broadening economic links between the two nations.
Regional issues highlighted during discussions between leaders
Regional concerns also played an important role in the Abu Dhabi meeting. Sheikh Mohamed and King Abdullah exchanged perspectives on recent developments impacting the Middle East, emphasizing the necessity of ongoing UAE-Jordan coordination on security and stability issues. Both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to supporting initiatives aimed at achieving comprehensive peace in the region. Their exchanges reflected the consistent political dialogue maintained between Abu Dhabi and Amman on major regional topics.
Following the talks, King Abdullah concluded his UAE visit and left Abu Dhabi later that Sunday. Sheikh Mohamed was present for his departure alongside other senior UAE officials. The gathering successfully integrated discussions on bilateral economic strategies with broader regional and security issues, highlighting the significance of the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement in fostering UAE-Jordan relations. The visit served as an opportunity for both sides to review ongoing cooperation and uphold direct communication between their respective leaders and senior officials.