Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan received Bishop Paolo Borgia at the Presidential Palace in Abu Dhabi where he presented the First-Class Order of Zayed II, according to the Emirates News Agency. The UAE president expressed appreciation for the ambassador’s work in advancing relations during his tenure as Apostolic Nuncio. The meeting emphasised the shared commitment to values of tolerance and cooperation that have defined the partnership for nearly two decades.
The Order of Zayed stands as the UAE’s highest civil decoration, named after the founding father Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, a report by The National explained. It has been conferred on numerous international leaders including former US President Donald Trump in 2025, China’s President Xi Jinping in 2018 and Russia’s President Vladimir Putin in 2007. A First-Class variant underscores the significance attached to the recipient’s role in fostering diplomatic goodwill.
Formal diplomatic relations between the UAE and the Holy See were established on 31 May 2007 to promote bonds of mutual friendship and international cooperation, a Vatican communiqué stated. The arrangement built on earlier unofficial contacts that dated back to the 1980s when Sheikh Zayed met Pope John Paul II. Since then the two sides have collaborated on humanitarian issues and interfaith understanding.
A milestone in the relationship occurred in February 2019 when Pope Francis made the first papal visit to the Arabian Peninsula, according to Vatican records. During the trip the pontiff signed the Document on Human Fraternity with the Grand Imam of Al-Azhar and celebrated mass for an estimated 135,000 people at Zayed Sports City. The New York Times described the journey as an effort to improve relations with the Muslim world and support Catholic communities in the region.
Bishop Paolo Borgia has served as the Holy See’s ambassador to the UAE since his appointment, focusing on initiatives that align with both sides’ priorities in dialogue and aid. He conveyed gratitude for the honour and reiterated the Vatican’s interest in deepening existing ties. The recognition arrives as the UAE expands its network of partnerships centred on cultural exchange and peace-building efforts.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has documented a steady rise in high-level diplomatic engagements that reflect the country’s commitment to global outreach. Such awards often coincide with key anniversaries or achievements in bilateral cooperation. This latest honour adds to a tradition that highlights successful envoys who have advanced constructive relations.
