According to the Emirates News Agency Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs is heading the UAE delegation at the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York. The delegation includes ministers responsible for international cooperation industry climate change and foreign trade among others. This participation allows the UAE to engage directly in debates on peace security and sustainable development that define the current session. The Emirates News Agency reported that Sheikh Abdullah will deliver the national statement outlining the country’s priorities for international collaboration.
The 81st session which began on September 8 2026 carries the theme Restoring Trust Managing Transformation A United Nations That Delivers for All according to the UN President’s office. Priorities for the year include strengthening peace accelerating sustainable development goals advancing climate resilience and promoting inclusive digital governance. A UN handover report presented at the opening stressed the importance of continuity from the previous session in addressing ongoing global mandates. The high-level general debate runs from September 22 to 28 providing a platform for more than 150 world leaders.
Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed leads UAE delegation at 81st Session of UN General Assembly in New York as the country reaffirms its alignment with efforts to build an efficient and forward-looking United Nations the Emirates News Agency stated. The UAE has supported initiatives such as the UN80 commemoration and will engage on topics including the two-state solution for Palestine and global artificial intelligence governance. Officials from the delegation are scheduled to attend side meetings on climate action and women’s rights milestones. The participation builds on the UAE’s history of contributing to UN programs in peacekeeping and humanitarian aid.
The UAE’s commitment to multilateralism was highlighted in a recent joint declaration with Germany that referenced its role co-hosting the 2026 United Nations Water Conference with Senegal in December the Ministry of Foreign Affairs noted. This aligns with broader goals for environmental sustainability and equitable development discussed at the assembly. Sheikh Abdullah is expected to hold bilateral talks with foreign ministers to explore cooperation in trade investment and renewable energy. Such engagements reflect the UAE’s approach of turning challenges into opportunities for shared prosperity.
Senior officials accompanying the foreign minister include Reem bint Ebrahim Al Hashimy Minister of State for International Cooperation and Dr Sultan bin Ahmed Al Jaber Minister of Industry and Advanced Technology the Emirates News Agency listed. The group will also participate in events marking the 30th anniversary of the Fourth World Conference on Women and discussions on AI safety. These activities demonstrate the comprehensive nature of the UAE’s involvement across multiple sectors. Data from past UN sessions show the UAE has consistently advocated for reforms that enhance the organization’s effectiveness.
Further meetings during the week will address regional developments and humanitarian issues according to the Emirates News Agency. The UAE continues to emphasize adherence to international law and the UN Charter in its diplomatic efforts. This approach supports the session’s focus on restoring trust among member states and delivering tangible results for populations worldwide. The delegation’s program concludes with outcomes expected to strengthen partnerships on key global files.
