Somalia and UAE Strengthen Bilateral Relations: President Mohamud Receives Emirati Minister in Mogadishu

 Mogadishu, August 28, 2025 – Somalia’s President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud on Wednesday hosted the United Arab Emirates (UAE) Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Sheikh Shakhboot bin Nahyan Al Nahyan, at the Presidential Palace (Villa Somalia) in Mogadishu. The high-level meeting underscored the growing importance of regional partnerships and the enduring fraternal ties between Somalia and the UAE.

According to a statement from Villa Somalia, discussions centered on reinforcing cooperation in critical areas such as security, economic development, and state-building. The talks also reflected the two nations’ shared commitment to advancing stability in the Horn of Africa, a region often challenged by insecurity, climate shocks, and economic fragility.

A Message from the UAE Leadership

During the meeting, Sheikh Shakhboot bin Nahyan Al Nahyan conveyed a personal message from His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the President of the United Arab Emirates, to President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud. The message highlighted the UAE’s readiness to deepen collaboration with Somalia and reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the Somali people during this transformative period.

President Mohamud warmly welcomed the message and expressed gratitude for the UAE’s longstanding partnership. He emphasized that Somalia values its relationship with the Emirates, pointing to the UAE’s consistent role in humanitarian support, infrastructure development, and investment opportunities.

Strengthening Strategic Cooperation

Somalia and the UAE share a long history of cooperation across multiple fields. Over the years, the Emirates has supported Somalia with humanitarian assistance during droughts, floods, and famine crises. Beyond aid, the UAE has also invested in Somalia’s ports, aviation sector, and trade initiatives, reflecting its role as a vital partner in economic development.

In the security sphere, cooperation has included capacity-building support for Somali forces and collaborative efforts aimed at countering terrorism and piracy threats in the Horn of Africa. As Somalia continues its state-building process and prepares for key democratic transitions, these partnerships remain essential to sustaining progress.

President Mohamud’s Message to Abu Dhabi

President Mohamud also used the occasion to deliver his personal message to UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan. He reaffirmed Somalia’s commitment to enhancing bilateral ties, noting that the country is prioritizing stability, democratic governance, and inclusive development. He further stressed that cooperation with regional allies such as the UAE will be central to achieving Somalia’s long-term vision of peace and prosperity.

Regional Significance

The visit is viewed as part of broader regional diplomatic engagement, as Somalia seeks to strengthen relations with Gulf states and other international partners. The UAE, with its strategic position and growing influence, has emerged as a critical ally in both political and economic terms.

Observers note that such high-level exchanges send a positive signal about Somalia’s international standing. After decades of conflict and instability, Somalia is gradually building stronger state institutions and gaining recognition as a partner for regional cooperation. Diplomatic visits like this reinforce confidence in Somalia’s recovery trajectory and open doors for investment, trade, and cultural exchange.

Looking Ahead

As Somalia continues to tackle pressing challenges—including insecurity, climate change impacts, and economic reform—the support of partners such as the UAE remains indispensable. The renewed momentum in bilateral relations promises opportunities in infrastructure development, private sector investment, and joint initiatives for youth empowerment and job creation.

President Mohamud’s meeting with Sheikh Shakhboot bin Nahyan Al Nahyan is more than a diplomatic courtesy; it is a reflection of the deepening ties between Mogadishu and Abu Dhabi. For the Somali people, it represents hope that international partnerships can translate into tangible progress on the ground—progress toward a stable, democratic, and prosperous nation.