UAE’s Strategic Role at 34th Arab Summit in Iraq

In a powerful demonstration of its diplomatic engagement and commitment to regional unity, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) actively participated in the 34th Arab Summit held in Baghdad, Republic of Iraq. The summit, a critical platform for political dialogue and Arab solidarity, was hosted on a Saturday and brought together the region’s top leaders to deliberate on pressing regional and international challenges. Representing the UAE President, His Highness Sheikh Mohamed Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the UAE delegation was led by His Highness Sheikh Mansour Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice President, Deputy Prime Minister, and Chairman of the Presidential Court.

This prominent participation reflects the UAE’s unwavering dedication to promoting Arab cooperation, fostering peace, and contributing meaningfully to the shared future of the Arab world. Through high-level discussions and strategic diplomacy, the summit served as a timely opportunity to reinforce regional alliances and respond to evolving global developments.

Sheikh Mansour Bin Zayed’s Leadership at the Summit

His Highness Sheikh Mansour Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, entrusted with representing the President of the UAE, played a pivotal role in leading the country’s delegation during the high-stakes regional conference. As a central figure in Emirati governance and diplomacy, Sheikh Mansour’s presence at the summit signified the UAE’s commitment to engaging with regional allies at the highest level.

At the summit, Sheikh Mansour underscored the UAE’s longstanding position on the need for Arab unity, cooperation, and strategic dialogue to address ongoing crises and pursue economic and political stability. His engagement reflected the UAE’s foreign policy ethos—one rooted in diplomacy, peacebuilding, and development-driven partnerships across the Arab world.

UAE Delegation Composed of Senior Officials

Accompanying Sheikh Mansour Bin Zayed was a team of highly respected UAE officials, whose combined expertise spans foreign affairs, energy, national security, and international relations. Among them was Sheikh Abdullah Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, whose vast experience in diplomacy greatly enriched the UAE’s representation.

Ali Mohammed Hammad Al Shamsi, Secretary-General of the Supreme Council for National Security, brought insight into the UAE’s vision for regional security, counterterrorism, and strategic coordination. His contributions were particularly relevant in discussions focused on collective defense mechanisms and regional stability.

Suhail Bin Mohammed Al Mazrouei, Minister of Energy and Infrastructure, engaged in talks related to energy collaboration, sustainable development, and infrastructure modernization—topics central to economic progress in the Arab region. His presence supported the UAE’s mission of promoting green energy and cross-border infrastructure development.

The delegation also included Khalifa Shaheen Al Marar, Minister of State; Lana Zaki Nusseibeh, Assistant Minister for Political Affairs; and Mariam Al Kaabi, UAE Ambassador to Egypt and Permanent Representative to the Arab League. Their participation emphasized the UAE’s comprehensive and multi-sectoral approach to Arab diplomacy.

Core Themes of the 34th Arab Summit

The 34th Arab Summit convened under the banner of unity, peace, and cooperation. Key agenda items included regional conflicts, joint economic initiatives, food and energy security, climate change, and collective responses to humanitarian crises. The summit allowed member states to voice their positions, align on mutual interests, and explore actionable solutions.

For the UAE, this summit presented an opportunity to reaffirm its commitment to resolving ongoing conflicts through diplomacy, particularly in Palestine, Syria, Yemen, and Libya. The delegation advocated for peaceful, sustainable solutions rooted in respect for sovereignty, international law, and the welfare of Arab communities.

Economic integration was another focal point. The UAE shared insights from its own development journey and urged Arab nations to pursue joint investments, trade facilitation, and financial cooperation to boost economic resilience and reduce dependence on volatile global markets.

UAE’s Agenda for Regional Security and Cooperation

A core pillar of the UAE’s participation was the promotion of regional peace and security through collaboration and proactive diplomacy. The UAE emphasized the need for enhanced intelligence-sharing, counterterrorism frameworks, and joint defense initiatives among Arab states. In light of emerging global threats—both conventional and cyber—the UAE advocated for strengthening institutions and creating resilient defense partnerships.

Ali Mohammed Hammad Al Shamsi’s participation was key to emphasizing the UAE’s robust approach to security collaboration. The delegation underscored the importance of unified regional mechanisms to protect critical infrastructure, manage borders, and stabilize post-conflict regions.

The UAE also extended support for Iraq’s stability, commending the host nation for its resilience and dedication to playing a leading role in Arab affairs. By aligning with Iraq’s aspirations, the UAE reinforced the need for a cohesive Arab response to regional challenges.

Energy, Infrastructure, and Climate: Shared Development Goals

The UAE’s leadership in clean energy, sustainability, and infrastructure transformation was a highlight at the summit. Minister Suhail Al Mazrouei outlined the UAE’s efforts in renewable energy, including solar and hydrogen projects, and stressed the importance of regional cooperation in achieving energy diversification.

The delegation encouraged partnerships in infrastructure projects that can enhance regional connectivity, transportation, and digital innovation. The UAE’s proposal for a joint regional infrastructure fund resonated with the summit’s objectives of fostering economic integration and resilience.

Environmental sustainability also featured prominently. Building on its hosting of COP28, the UAE proposed regional collaboration in climate adaptation, water conservation, and environmental technology. The country offered to share best practices and technologies that can help combat desertification and boost food security in arid Arab regions.

Advancing Arab Youth, Innovation, and Digital Transformation

Recognizing the demographic strength of the Arab youth, the UAE delegation emphasized the urgency of creating opportunities for education, employment, and innovation. The summit featured calls for establishing cross-border programs that support youth startups, education exchanges, and digital entrepreneurship.

The UAE urged the Arab League to adopt innovation-driven policies that align with global digital trends. By investing in smart cities, artificial intelligence, and space exploration, Arab countries can position themselves as global tech players, the delegation argued. The UAE’s own experience in launching satellites and fostering a tech-savvy workforce was presented as a regional model.

Sheikh Mansour highlighted that empowering Arab youth is not only a social imperative but a strategic one, crucial to building resilient, knowledge-based economies.

Iraq’s Role as Host and Regional Bridge

Hosting the 34th Arab Summit marked a milestone for Iraq’s diplomatic resurgence and regional influence. The successful organization of the summit in Baghdad sent a clear message about Iraq’s growing stability and commitment to Arab integration. The UAE delegation applauded Iraq’s efforts, acknowledging the country’s historical and strategic significance in Arab politics.

The UAE’s engagement with Iraqi leaders during the summit emphasized shared visions in development, security, and cultural exchange. This collaborative spirit reflected the broader goal of reinforcing Arab League unity and fostering trust among member states.

UAE’s Long-Term Vision for Arab Unity and Diplomacy

The UAE’s participation in the 34th Arab Summit is a continuation of its long-standing foreign policy strategy that champions multilateralism, peace diplomacy, and sustainable development. The nation’s delegation projected a unified voice, calling for regional resilience, innovation, and a renewed spirit of Arab cooperation.

The UAE’s leadership role in the summit—backed by a well-rounded delegation of ministers and diplomats—symbolized its readiness to engage constructively, mediate where needed, and contribute tangibly to the Arab League’s goals. This approach strengthens its image as a regional partner dedicated to growth, peace, and prosperity for all.