UAE and Lebanon Strengthen Ties with Key Agreements and Support

Photo : AFP

Abu Dhabi: The United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Lebanon have taken strong steps to rebuild and grow their relationship during the first official visit of Lebanese President Joseph Aoun to the UAE.

On Thursday, President Aoun met with UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan in Abu Dhabi. The two leaders had friendly and meaningful talks about working together in various areas. They spoke about how both countries have long-standing ties built on respect, support, and shared values.

President Mohamed bin Zayed said that the UAE remains committed to helping Lebanon stay secure, stable, and independent. President Aoun thanked the UAE for its continuous support, especially in humanitarian efforts and development projects that have helped Lebanon during difficult times.

Both leaders agreed to focus on improving economic and investment cooperation. This means they will work together to grow their economies, create jobs, and exchange knowledge on how to run governments more effectively.

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As part of this plan, the UAE’s Government Experience Exchange Office will visit Lebanon soon. This office will share ideas and tools that can help Lebanon improve its government services and strengthen its institutions.

Another important part of the talks was the decision to make it easier for people to travel between the UAE and Lebanon. This is a big step, especially after years of difficult relations. The countries also decided to raise the level of diplomatic communication and open a joint UAE-Lebanon Business Council to boost trade and business ties.

The Abu Dhabi Fund for Development will send a team to Lebanon to explore new partnership projects that can support Lebanon’s rebuilding efforts.

This meeting marks a big change in UAE’s approach to Lebanon. In 2021, the UAE had withdrawn its diplomats and imposed travel restrictions after a Lebanese official made comments about Saudi Arabia’s role in the Yemen conflict. Though Lebanese people were not banned officially, many faced trouble getting visas.

However, things began to change earlier this year. In January 2025, the UAE reopened its embassy in Beirut. Now, with the travel restrictions being lifted and cooperation improving, both sides are working toward a fresh start.

This positive shift also follows Saudi Arabia’s recent interest in easing trade and travel with Lebanon. In 2024, Gulf countries had pledged over $150 million to help Lebanon, with the UAE contributing $100 million.

The renewed cooperation between the UAE and Lebanon reflects hope for stronger relations, economic recovery, and better support for the people of both nations.