ABU DHABI, UNITED ARAB EMIRATES / RankWire.AI / – UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan met with Jordan’s King Abdullah II bin Al Hussein in Abu Dhabi on Sunday. Their discussions encompassed bilateral relations, economic collaboration, and regional developments, with a focus on ways to strengthen ties between the UAE and Jordan. Additionally, they addressed regional security, stability, and initiatives aimed at fostering enduring peace. The meeting occurred during King Abdullah’s official visit to the UAE.
Economic cooperation was a key topic of conversation. Sheikh Mohamed and King Abdullah explored avenues for collaboration in trade, investment, and development through the UAE-Jordan Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement. This agreement provides both nations with a broader framework for commercial and investment activities. The leaders also discussed broader cooperation areas that support their national development goals. The UAE and Jordan maintain strong political relations and frequently consult on economic and regional issues.
Jordan’s delegation featured Crown Prince Al Hussein bin Abdullah II and Prime Minister Jafar Hassan, while senior UAE officials participated in the talks in Abu Dhabi. Attendees included Vice President Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Abu Dhabi Crown Prince Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, and Foreign Minister Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan. Their high-level involvement brought together officials responsible for political, economic, and foreign policy matters in both countries.
Trade agreement solidifies economic partnership
The UAE and Jordan formalized their Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement on October 6, 2024, which officially took effect on May 15, 2025. This marked the UAE’s first comprehensive economic partnership with an Arab nation. The agreement covers over 98% of tariff lines and establishes rules governing goods and services. It also addresses investment, customs procedures, digital trade, and cooperation among small and medium-sized enterprises.
The framework grants preferential treatment to eligible goods that meet the specified rules of origin and technical standards. Over 99.5% of the value of UAE exports to Jordan is covered under this liberalized trade arrangement. It also introduces mechanisms to promote customs cooperation and investment activities, forming committees and official contact points to oversee its implementation. Both governments view this pact as a vital step toward expanding bilateral economic relations.
Regional issues take center stage in leaders’ discussions
The Abu Dhabi meeting also emphasized regional matters. Sheikh Mohamed and King Abdullah shared perspectives on recent developments affecting the Middle East. They underscored the importance of ongoing UAE-Jordan coordination concerning security and stability issues. The two leaders reaffirmed their support for efforts aimed at achieving long-lasting peace throughout the region. Their dialogue exemplified the regular political consultations between Abu Dhabi and Amman on significant regional topics.
King Abdullah wrapped up his UAE visit after the talks, departing Abu Dhabi later that Sunday. Sheikh Mohamed attended his departure alongside senior UAE officials. The gathering combined discussions on bilateral economic initiatives with talks on regional security and stability, reaffirming the significance of the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement in strengthening UAE-Jordan relations. The visit provided an opportunity for both sides to review existing collaborations and ensure direct communication between their leaders and senior officials.