UAE Delegation Engages With Kurdish Leaders To Strengthen Economic And Cultural Cooperation

A UAE delegation, led by Saeed Mubarak Al Hajeri, visited the Kurdistan Region of Iraq on September 10–11, 2025. The delegation aimed to strengthen ties with the region's leaders, including Masoud Barzani, Nechirvan Barzani, Masrour Barzani, and Qubad Talabani. Discussions focused on enhancing cooperation in economic, investment, and cultural sectors between the UAE and the Kurdistan Region.

During the visit, Al Hajeri conveyed greetings from UAE leaders to the Kurdistan officials. He expressed wishes for continued progress and prosperity for both Iraq and the Kurdistan Region. In return, Kurdish leaders sent their regards to UAE leaders and expressed hopes for further development and prosperity in the UAE.

The meetings highlighted a mutual commitment to strengthening bilateral relations. Both sides expressed a desire to advance cooperation in areas of shared interest. The visit was seen as a reflection of this commitment, aiming to support joint goals through enhanced collaboration.

The delegation included representatives from various UAE ministries and Alef Education. They met with several key figures in the Kurdistan Regional Government. These included Safeen Dizayee, Omed Sabah, Mohammed Shukri, Sasan Awni, Omed Khoshnaw, and Aziz Ahmed. These discussions aimed at exploring opportunities for collaboration across different sectors.

The delegation attended a roundtable organised by the Kurdistan Regional Government Council of Ministers. This event provided an overview of the region's developments and opportunities for future partnerships. Senior officials were present to discuss potential areas for collaboration.

Al Hajeri praised the urban development and progress achieved in the Kurdistan Region. He noted significant advancements across various sectors. He also emphasised the longstanding historical ties between the two regions in political, economic, cultural, and humanitarian fields.

Cultural Heritage Tour

The visit also included a tour of major archaeological sites in the region that are part of UNESCO's World Heritage List. This tour underscored the cultural richness of the area and highlighted potential areas for cultural exchange between the UAE and Kurdistan.

In addition to official meetings, the delegation engaged with local organisations such as the Kurdistan Foundation. These interactions aimed at fostering deeper connections and exploring avenues for future cooperation.

The visit concluded with both sides expressing optimism about future collaborations. They reiterated their commitment to working together towards mutual benefits in various sectors.

With inputs from WAM