Syrian President Ahmad al-Sharaa’s second official visit to the United Arab Emirates this week underscored growing diplomatic and economic alignment between Damascus and Abu Dhabi, as Syria continues its reintegration into the regional fold following the lifting of most international sanctions.
Sharaa arrived in Abu Dhabi the evening of July 7, beginning a new leg of his Gulf tour aimed at securing investment and fostering strategic partnerships. He was received by UAE Foreign Minister Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed. The visit follows Sharaa’s April 13 trip, marking a continuation of high-level engagement between the two countries.
Economic Recovery at the Center
In official meetings Tuesday, President Sharaa met with UAE President Muhammad bin Zayed (MBZ) to discuss expanding economic and development cooperation. According to UAE Presidential Diplomatic Adviser Anwar Gargash, the dialogue “embodies the depth of brotherly relations” and reaffirms the UAE’s commitment to Syria’s recovery.
Gargash, posting on the social media platform X, said the discussions focused on economic development as the primary route to stability and growth. “Economic and development success is enough to put Syria on the path of recovery and prosperity,” he wrote, highlighting the UAE’s role in Syria’s reconstruction strategy.
Syrian Diaspora Seen as a Bridge
Gargash also highlighted the role of the nearly 400,000 Syrians living in the UAE, calling the community’s “inspiring success” one of the “keys to cooperation.” Their presence is seen by both governments as a vital link in rebuilding Syria’s economic infrastructure and advancing joint ventures.
During his remarks, Sharaa emphasized Syria’s readiness to move forward after more than a decade of conflict. “We have turned the page on war and division,” he said, noting that Syria is actively seeking “strategic partnerships with its Gulf brothers” in sectors ranging from infrastructure to digital transformation and renewable energy.
UAE’s Pledge of Support
President MBZ reiterated the UAE’s firm support for Syria’s unity, sovereignty and long-term development goals. He emphasized his government’s commitment to working with Syria in key sectors such as investment, technology and clean energy, signaling a broader vision for regional cooperation.
The Emirates News Agency reported that both sides framed the visit as a foundation for deeper collaboration, particularly in the face of ongoing regional challenges and the need for sustainable recovery models.
A Broader Gulf Realignment
Sharaa’s tour reflects a shift in regional dynamics, with Gulf states recalibrating their policies toward Damascus. The visit follows recent normalization steps by Arab nations and is widely seen as part of a coordinated effort to reintegrate Syria into the Arab political and economic mainstream.
With Abu Dhabi positioning itself as a bridge for regional diplomacy and development, and Damascus signaling openness to Gulf investment and guidance, both nations appear poised to expand their cooperation in the post-conflict era.
