Today's Edition
SARA ALZAABI AND BATOOL GHAITH (ABU DHABI)
From humanitarian diplomacy and mediation to strategic partnerships, the UAE has shaped a foreign policy defined by influence, stability, and a forward-looking leadership, experts say.
Over the past decades, it has increasingly established itself as a trusted mediator in some of the world’s most complex conflicts, advancing an approach centred on dialogue, neutrality, and humanitarian work.
Through engagement and cooperation with global partners, the country has facilitated negotiations, supported ceasefire efforts, and delivered aid in regions affected by conflict.
In an interview with Aletihad, Dr Ahmed Abdullah bin Saeed Al Matrooshi, a specialist in UAE foreign policy and international relations, highlighted the foundations of the country’s global role.
“The achievements of UAE foreign policy are many. Since the establishment of the UAE in 1971, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs began building embassies and relations with neighbouring, regional, and global powers,” he said.
He noted that the Father of the Nation, the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, and the founding leadership worked hard to “build very strong relations with the whole world”.
Humanitarian engagement formed a central pillar of this vision. This included support for countries such as Sudan, Pakistan, and Egypt, alongside mediation efforts in conflicts such as the Iraq–Iran war, the expert said.
Over time, he added, international trust in the country has translated into tangible outcomes, including strong global mobility rankings for the UAE passport and expanding economic and cultural partnerships.
UAE as Peacebuilder
The country has been firm in its commitment to international law and diplomacy, Dr Al Matrooshi said, citing mediation efforts led by UAE President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan in global conflicts, such as the Russia–Ukraine war.
Dr Mohammed Ibrahim Al Dhaheri, Deputy Director General of the Anwar Gargash Diplomatic Academy, said the UAE’s credibility as a mediator stems from a consistent foreign policy built on dialogue and balanced international relations.
“Its approach reflects a clear commitment to de-escalation and to supporting practical solutions in complex international contexts,” Dr Al Dhaheri told Aletihad.
He added that the UAE’s role as a convening platform has strengthened as it hosted high-level talks among global actors, including trilateral discussions between the US, Russia, and Ukraine in Abu Dhabi.
“[It created] space for dialogue even in the most sensitive international settings,” Dr Al Dhaheri said.
Since the outbreak of the conflict between Russia and Ukraine, the UAE has also facilitated multiple prisoner exchanges, helping reunite thousands of detainees with their families. The latest efforts succeeded in another exchange of captives earlier this month, bringing the total number of individuals released through UAE mediation to more than 6,300.
Dr Al Dhaheri also highlighted the UAE’s role as an active partner in the US-led Quad mediation efforts in Sudan. Alongside the US, Saudi Arabia, and Egypt, it has supported initiatives aimed at advancing ceasefire negotiations, improving humanitarian access, and promoting a political pathway to end the conflict.
“What distinguishes the UAE’s model is the combination of strategic neutrality and active diplomacy, which enables it to foster trust while delivering meaningful outcomes,” Dr Al Dhaheri said.
Lending a Hand
Beyond mediation, another pillar of the country’s soft power is its humanitarian outreach, according to Dr Al Matrooshi.
“Supporting countries and assisting those in need remains a fundamental objective,” he said.
He cited long-standing support for Palestine, as well as aid to Pakistan, Egypt, and Syrian refugees through camps, hospitals, food, and essential supplies. Wherever there is crisis or disaster, the UAE has consistently been ready to respond and extend assistance.
In fact, the country was ranked the third-largest donor of humanitarian aid globally in 2025, according to data published by the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (UNOCHA).
For Dr Al Matrooshi, the UAE’s strength lies in its strong leadership, inclusivity, and a long-term vision that has shaped the country’s growth and unity.
“The UAE is truly a model. Leadership is the key; they have built a strong and well-established nation,” he said, noting that more than 200 nationalities live in the country in harmony.
With its strong foundations, the country is able to project its balanced approach well beyond its borders.
Dr Al Dhaheri said that in an increasingly fragmented international landscape, the UAE’s role as a peacebuilder is essential to addressing humanitarian challenges and supporting pathways towards global stability.
