The UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs announced that Abdullah bin Zayed meets foreign ministers, senior officials on UNGA81 sidelines as part of the country’s high-level participation in the annual gathering that runs through September 28. Sheikh Abdullah is leading a large delegation that includes ministers responsible for climate, trade, health and other portfolios. The engagements began on September 22 as the high-level week commenced with world leaders addressing the assembly. This activity reflects the UAE’s long-standing commitment to multilateral forums since it joined the United Nations in 1971.
According to a statement from the ministry, the UAE’s priorities for UNGA81 center on three strategic objectives that encompass advancing conflict resolution and global stability while promoting tolerance and peaceful coexistence. The delegation is also pushing for UN reforms to boost efficiency, with a focus on responsible artificial intelligence applications. Preparations for the 2026 UN Water Conference that the UAE will co-host with Senegal in Abu Dhabi from December 8 to 10 form another key element of the agenda. A UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs assessment found that these themes align with efforts to uphold the UN Charter and deliver practical solutions for peace and sustainable development.
Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan stated that the session offers a chance to restore confidence in international law and the UN Charter. “The UAE’s participation in the session represents an opportunity to support practical solutions that promote peace and security and sustainable development amid regional and international challenges,” he said. The minister stressed the importance of dialogue and multilateral cooperation at a time when such approaches are more vital than ever. His comments came in the lead-up to a series of bilateral and multilateral meetings scheduled throughout the week.
The delegation includes senior figures such as Dr Anwar Gargash as Diplomatic Adviser, Reem Al Hashimy as Minister of State for International Cooperation and Dr Sultan Al Jaber as Minister of Industry and Advanced Technology and Special Envoy for Climate Change. These members will participate in discussions on international peace, AI governance and sustainable development. The group will also coordinate on climate initiatives ahead of the water conference set for Abu Dhabi in December. A UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs assessment places these themes at the core of the country’s contributions to the assembly.
During the meetings, Sheikh Abdullah is expected to engage with counterparts on ways to address ongoing conflicts and support humanitarian efforts. The UAE has a track record of substantial contributions to UN programs, according to UN agency reports. Such engagements help strengthen bilateral ties while advancing collective goals on global issues. Officials noted that the high-level week provides a platform for meaningful exchanges that can yield concrete outcomes.
In addition to the main session, side events will cover topics like AI in UN operations and innovative water solutions. The UAE views these areas as critical for future global governance structures. Sheikh Abdullah’s leadership of the delegation underscores the priority placed on effective representation at the United Nations. Further updates on specific meeting outcomes are anticipated as the week progresses.
