UAE President's Pakistan Visit Targets Deeper Aviation and Economic Ties

December 23, 2025 at 08:23 PM•3 min read

UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed's visit to Pakistan on December 26 aims to boost bilateral trade and strengthen crucial aviation sector

Key Points

1UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan is scheduled to visit Pakistan on December 26 to discuss economic and aviation collaboration.
2Pakistan's cabinet recently approved a government-to-government framework with the UAE for transferring operations of Islamabad International Airport.
3A recent agreement will see AirSial launch new flights to Abu Dhabi, and Wizz Air start services to two Pakistani cities, expanding air connectivity.
4The visit aims to secure increased UAE investment in key sectors, including the crucial aviation sector.

United Arab Emirates (UAE) President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan is set to arrive in Pakistan on December 26. The official visit aims to strengthen UAE Pakistan aviation ties and broader economic cooperation. The agenda includes high-level talks with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and other officials. Discussions will focus on enhancing economic ties, trade, and aviation sector investment.

Prime Minister Sharif recently met with UAE Ambassador Salem Mohammed Salem Al Bawab Al Zaabi. The premier stressed Pakistan's strong commitment to furthering bilateral trade relations. He also acknowledged the UAE's consistent support through humanitarian and developmental projects.

Aviation Investment and Infrastructure

Aviation sector investment is a key area of Pakistan UAE cooperation. A major focus is the management of key airport infrastructure. Pakistan's cabinet approved a plan to finalize arrangements with the UAE government. This is for the transfer of operations at Islamabad International Airport. The deal follows a government-to-government framework.

This move is part of Pakistan's effort to outsource state-run enterprises. Officials hope foreign partners will bring operational expertise. This should enhance the passenger experience and restore confidence in the sector.

Expanding Air Connectivity

Recent diplomatic efforts have already yielded concrete results in air travel. The nations reached an agreement to expand flight services between them. This is a significant step in increasing air connectivity.

AirSial Wizz Air flights are set to launch new routes soon.
Pakistan's AirSial will begin flights from three Pakistani cities to Abu Dhabi.
Wizz Air will operate flights between Abu Dhabi and two cities in Pakistan.

Currently, more than 90 weekly flights operate from the UAE to Pakistan. This high volume is served by at least eight airlines. These carriers include Emirates, Etihad Airways, and Air Arabia. The new air services agreements will further boost this already busy corridor.

Broader Economic Impact

The Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed visit is expected to deepen the strategic partnership. The Prime Minister specifically invited increased UAE investments. These investments are targeted at key sectors to support Pakistan's economic stability.

Key Opportunities for Aviation Stakeholders:

Airport Management: UAE entities may soon manage a major international airport, improving efficiency.
Route Expansion: New low-cost routes from AirSial Wizz Air flights will increase passenger traffic.
Economic Growth: Enhanced air links directly support tourism, trade, and cultural exchange.

The UAE Ambassador assured the Prime Minister of his country's keen interest. He vowed to explore new avenues for cooperation to benefit both nations. This diplomatic engagement underscores the critical role of aviation in modern bilateral trade relations.