Pakistan is an important partner for the UAE, says Dr Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi, UAE Minister of State for Foreign Trade, emphasizing the deep-rooted economic, cultural, and diplomatic ties between the two nations. In recent years, the relationship between Pakistan and the United Arab Emirates has evolved far beyond traditional trade, branching into new areas such as renewable energy, innovation, logistics, and digital economy cooperation.
Dr Al Zeyoudi’s statement reflects a renewed commitment from both sides to strengthen collaboration and drive mutual prosperity. The growing partnership underscores the UAE’s strategic focus on fostering deeper relationships within South Asia — a region vital to the Gulf’s long-term trade and investment vision.
A Relationship Built on History and Shared Vision
The bond between Pakistan and the UAE is not a recent development — it is built on decades of trust, cooperation, and shared cultural values. Since the establishment of diplomatic relations in the early 1970s, both countries have worked together to foster growth and stability.
Dr Al Zeyoudi’s acknowledgment that Pakistan is an important partner for the UAE is a recognition of this enduring legacy. The UAE has played a pivotal role in supporting Pakistan’s development through investments, humanitarian aid, and trade collaborations. Similarly, Pakistan’s workforce has significantly contributed to the UAE’s economic progress, helping shape key sectors such as construction, logistics, and services.
This mutual dependence has transformed into a modern partnership driven by strategic vision and shared goals — to build sustainable economies that can thrive amid global challenges.
Trade Ties Strengthening Across Sectors
Trade remains one of the strongest pillars of the UAE-Pakistan partnership. The UAE is one of Pakistan’s largest trading partners, and both nations are working actively to diversify the scope of trade beyond traditional goods like textiles, food, and oil products.
In his remarks, Dr Al Zeyoudi highlighted that the UAE is keen on expanding investments into Pakistan’s emerging sectors such as renewable energy, manufacturing, technology, and infrastructure. This aligns with the UAE’s broader ambition to enhance global trade connectivity under its “Projects of the 50” initiative — a national plan focused on building resilient and forward-looking partnerships.
The UAE’s ports, free zones, and logistics expertise can play a transformative role in boosting Pakistan’s exports. In turn, Pakistan’s agricultural strength, youthful talent pool, and strategic location can offer the UAE valuable trade advantages in Asia and beyond.
Investment Cooperation: A Path Toward Shared Prosperity
Pakistan is an important partner for the UAE not only in trade but also in investment cooperation. Over the years, Emirati investments have flowed into Pakistan’s real estate, banking, telecommunications, and energy sectors.
Dr Al Zeyoudi’s remarks come at a time when both governments are exploring new frameworks to attract sustainable foreign direct investment (FDI) and joint ventures. The UAE’s strong financial infrastructure and Pakistan’s growing market potential create a complementary equation for growth.
The UAE’s focus on green and digital investments also resonates with Pakistan’s drive toward innovation and renewable energy. Collaboration in solar and wind projects, along with climate-friendly technologies, presents significant opportunities for both economies to align with global sustainability goals.
People-to-People Ties: The Heart of the Partnership
At the core of the UAE-Pakistan relationship lies a deep human connection. More than 1.5 million Pakistanis currently live and work in the UAE, forming one of the largest expatriate communities in the country.
Their contribution to the UAE’s economic and cultural fabric has been immense — from building iconic landmarks to serving in various industries that power the nation’s growth. In return, the UAE has consistently recognized and supported the Pakistani community, ensuring their well-being and inclusion.
Dr Al Zeyoudi’s recognition that Pakistan is an important partner for the UAE reflects the importance of these human bonds. These ties extend beyond economics, symbolizing friendship, shared respect, and the spirit of cooperation that defines the UAE’s multicultural identity.
Strategic Cooperation in the Digital and Green Economies
The world is moving toward a digital-first and green-focused future, and both the UAE and Pakistan are aligning their strategies accordingly. Under Dr Al Zeyoudi’s leadership, the UAE’s Ministry of Economy has prioritized innovation, entrepreneurship, and technology-driven partnerships.
Pakistan, with its fast-growing tech industry and rising startup culture, offers a fertile ground for UAE investors and entrepreneurs seeking new opportunities. The two nations are exploring collaborations in fintech, e-commerce, logistics technology, and digital payments — sectors that are shaping the next phase of global trade.
In the green economy, the UAE’s experience with sustainable infrastructure and energy diversification can help Pakistan accelerate its transition toward renewable energy sources. Joint initiatives in climate action, carbon neutrality, and sustainable agriculture can create a blueprint for future Gulf-South Asia collaboration.
Expanding Tourism and Cultural Collaboration
Tourism is another key area where both countries see immense potential. With increasing connectivity between major cities like Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Karachi, and Lahore, tourism exchange has witnessed remarkable growth.
Pakistan’s scenic landscapes, rich history, and cultural heritage offer unique experiences for Emirati travelers, while the UAE’s world-class attractions and hospitality continue to draw Pakistani visitors in large numbers.
Cultural festivals, educational exchanges, and art collaborations further strengthen this bond, reflecting a mutual appreciation for heritage, diversity, and creativity. Dr Al Zeyoudi’s statement serves as a reminder that partnerships are not only built through policies and trade but also through cultural understanding and people-to-people connection.
Mutual Support in Global Forums
The UAE and Pakistan have often stood side by side on global platforms, supporting each other’s initiatives in international organizations such as the United Nations, Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), and other multilateral bodies.
Dr Al Zeyoudi’s remarks highlight the significance of this diplomatic solidarity. The two nations share common priorities in promoting regional peace, stability, and economic growth. Whether in humanitarian efforts, peacekeeping missions, or climate summits, the UAE and Pakistan have consistently advocated for cooperation, tolerance, and progress.
Economic Resilience Through Shared Vision
As the global economy faces shifting dynamics, resilience has become a key theme for both countries. The UAE continues to lead the Middle East in economic diversification, while Pakistan is making strides in industrial reform, technology adoption, and investment facilitation.
Through trade agreements, investment missions, and joint business councils, the two nations are building a framework that supports long-term stability and growth. Dr Al Zeyoudi’s affirmation that Pakistan is an important partner for the UAE underlines the strategic depth of this collaboration — one that is rooted in shared ambition and regional interdependence.
Empowering Future Generations
Beyond trade and investment, the UAE and Pakistan are focusing on empowering future generations through education, skills development, and entrepreneurship.
Scholarship programs, training initiatives, and youth exchanges between the two countries have opened new pathways for learning and innovation. The UAE’s emphasis on future industries — such as artificial intelligence, space, and renewable energy — can provide Pakistani youth with exposure to cutting-edge technologies and global best practices.
This forward-looking approach ensures that the partnership is not only about economic benefits but also about nurturing human capital and unlocking long-term potential.
Humanitarian Cooperation and Shared Values
Both nations share a commitment to humanitarian aid and global solidarity. The UAE has been a consistent supporter of Pakistan during times of crisis — from natural disasters to pandemic recovery efforts.
This humanitarian partnership strengthens the emotional and moral foundation of the bilateral relationship. It also reflects the shared values of compassion, generosity, and cooperation that both countries uphold on the world stage.
Dr Al Zeyoudi’s statement serves as an acknowledgment that such values continue to guide the UAE’s foreign policy, especially with nations that share deep-rooted historical and cultural ties like Pakistan.
The Road Ahead: Deepening Strategic Ties
Looking forward, both the UAE and Pakistan are poised to deepen their collaboration across multiple fronts. Bilateral trade is expected to grow as both nations push for greater integration into global value chains.
Joint investment councils and high-level visits have laid the groundwork for enhanced cooperation. The UAE’s expertise in logistics and free zones, combined with Pakistan’s strategic position linking Central and South Asia, could make both countries key players in future trade corridors.
As Dr Al Zeyoudi reaffirmed, Pakistan is an important partner for the UAE not just for today but for the future — a partnership grounded in mutual respect, shared growth, and a collective vision for prosperity.
Conclusion
The statement by Dr Al Zeyoudi that Pakistan is an important partner for the UAE captures the essence of a partnership that has matured through time and continues to evolve with changing global dynamics.
From trade and investment to culture and technology, the collaboration between these two nations stands as a model for regional cooperation built on trust, opportunity, and shared purpose.
As the UAE continues to expand its global trade horizons and Pakistan accelerates its path toward economic transformation, their partnership shines as a beacon of mutual progress — a golden bridge connecting the Gulf and South Asia in pursuit of a brighter, more sustainable future.
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