The Emirates News Agency reported that President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan awarded the First Class Order of Independence to Antoine Delcourt, Ambassador of the Kingdom of Belgium to the UAE, as his diplomatic mission ended. The honour specifically recognised Delcourt’s efforts that contributed to advancing cooperation between the two countries in various fields. H.H. Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, presented the medal to the ambassador in Abu Dhabi on the President’s behalf.
In a LinkedIn post, Antoine Delcourt said, “Today, I had the great privilege of being awarded the Order of Independence, First Class, presented on behalf of the President of the UAE, His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan. I am deeply grateful for this high honour, which reflects the excellent relations between Belgium and the UAE.” He added his thanks to all UAE counterparts for their support during his tenure in the post. The statement came as Delcourt prepared to leave the country after completing his assignment.
Big News Network reported that Delcourt paid a farewell visit to His Highness Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi, Ruler of Ras Al Khaimah, on July 8, 2026. The ruler received the outgoing ambassador and affirmed the depth of friendship and cooperation linking the UAE and Belgium. Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi wished the diplomat every success in his future positions.
WAM has documented similar honours granted to other departing ambassadors throughout 2026. In early July the President awarded the same order to Maria Camilleri Calleja of Malta for efforts that strengthened relations with that country. Earlier awards went to the United Kingdom’s envoy in May, following a consistent approach to recognising diplomatic contributions upon the completion of tenures.
The pattern of such awards underscores the UAE’s diplomatic engagements with European partners, including Belgium, where collaboration spans economic and cultural domains. Multiple bilateral meetings have occurred in recent months to sustain that momentum. Delcourt’s receipt of the order adds to the record of high-level gestures that mark the positive state of ties between the two nations.
