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 centered on strengthening bilateral relations, economic collaborations, and regional developments across the Middle East. The two leaders explored avenues to enhance the partnership between the UAE and Jordan and addressed regional security, stability, and ongoing efforts to foster enduring peace. This meeting occurred during King Abdullah’s official visit to the UAE.
Economic cooperation was a major element of the agenda. Sheikh Mohamed and King Abdullah examined collaborative initiatives in trade, investment, and development under the UAE-Jordan Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement. This agreement offers both nations a broader framework for commercial and investment activities. Leaders also discussed wider cooperation areas aligned with their respective national development goals. The UAE and Jordan sustain close political ties and frequently consult on economic and regional issues.
Participants from Jordan included Crown Prince Al Hussein bin Abdullah II and Prime Minister Jafar Hassan. Senior officials from the UAE also took part in the Abu Dhabi discussions, notably Vice President Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan and Abu Dhabi Crown Prince Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan. Foreign Minister Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan was also present. The high-level presence of officials responsible for political, economic, and foreign policy matters underscored the significance of the meeting for both nations.
Trade Pact Anchors Broader Economic Collaboration
On October 6, 2024, the UAE and Jordan signed their Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement, which officially came into effect on May 15, 2025. Notably, this marked the UAE’s first comprehensive economic partnership agreement with an Arab country. The accord encompasses over 98% of tariff lines and establishes regulations governing goods and services. It also tackles issues related to investment, customs procedures, digital trade, and cooperation among small and medium-sized enterprises.
The framework facilitates preferential treatment for eligible goods meeting specified rules of origin and technical standards. Over 99.5% of the value of UAE exports to Jordan are covered under this liberalized trading arrangement. Additionally, the agreement includes provisions to enhance customs cooperation and investment facilitation. It creates committees and official channels to oversee implementation and review progress. Both governments consider this treaty a vital foundation for expanding their economic relationship.
Regional Issues Discussed in Abu Dhabi
The talks also highlighted regional matters. Sheikh Mohamed and King Abdullah exchanged perspectives on recent developments influencing the Middle East. They emphasized the significance of ongoing UAE-Jordan coordination on security and stability issues. The leaders reaffirmed their commitment to supporting initiatives aimed at securing lasting peace across the region. Their discussions reflected the continuous political dialogue maintained between Abu Dhabi and Amman regarding regional challenges.
Following the meeting, King Abdullah wrapped up his UAE visit and departed Abu Dhabi later on Sunday. Sheikh Mohamed was present at the departure alongside senior UAE officials. The session combined discussions on bilateral economic strategies with regional security and peace initiatives, underscoring the importance of the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement in UAE-Jordan relations. The leaders and officials from both sides used the opportunity to review existing collaborations and ensure ongoing direct communication and coordination.