Islamabad (Web Desk): President of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Ruler of Abu Dhabi, Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, reached Islamabad on Friday on an official visit to Pakistan.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, Deputy Prime Minister Senator Ishaq Dar and Chief of Army Staff (COAS) and Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir received the distinguished guest at the airport.
As the UAE president’s plane entered Pakistan’s airspace, it was escorted by a formation of Pakistan Air Force (PAF) jets as a mark of courtesy and goodwill.
After landing, the formal reception began with the playing of the national anthems of both countries, followed by a 21-gun salute, as an honour guard lined up to salute the visiting dignitary.
The ceremony was enlivened by coordinated performances from military and traditional bands, while rows of children waving Pakistani and Emirati flags lined the arrival route.
The UAE president was then accorded a guard of honour by a smartly turned-out contingent of the Pakistan Armed Forces.
Children dressed in traditional attire greeted President Al Nahyan, proudly holding the national flags of Pakistan and the UAE, lending colour and warmth to the reception.
The UAE’s President is accompanied by a high-level delegation, including ministers and senior officials.
According to a statement issued by the Foreign Office (FO), President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan is scheduled to meet Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif during the visit.
The two sides will hold wide-ranging discussions on Pakistan–UAE relations and share perspectives on key regional and global developments of mutual concern.
The visit is being described as an important step toward reinforcing the deep-rooted and brotherly ties between the two countries.
This is Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed’s first official trip to Pakistan in his capacity as UAE president. It recalled that he had earlier visited the country privately in January this year.
Separately, authorities have declared a public holiday in Islamabad in view of the high-level visit.
A notification issued by the registrar of the Islamabad High Court (IHC) announced that the high court and district courts will remain closed on December 26.
The Senate Secretariat and the National Assembly Secretariat will also observe the holiday.
In addition, the registrar of the Federal Constitutional Court (FFC) has announced a public holiday, resulting in the cancellation of the day’s cause list.
Meanwhile, a notification from the Cabinet Division clarified that routine operations at banks and essential service institutions will continue as normal.
Moreover, offices providing critical services, including the Capital Development Authority, police, Islamabad Electric Supply Company, and Sui Northern Gas Pipelines Limited, will remain functional despite the holiday.
Separately, in a gesture of warmth and friendship, the Government of Pakistan has released a special song to welcome UAE President Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan on his first official visit to the country.
The video captures the President’s arrival, showcasing a grand reception and a heartfelt moment as he greets Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif with a warm handshake and embrace. Children presenting flowers to the distinguished guest add a touching and lively dimension to the welcome.
Entitled “Ahlan wa Sahlan, Marhaba,” the song beautifully conveys Pakistan's tradition of hospitality and mirrors the strong bond between the people of Pakistan and the United Arab Emirates. Through its visuals and lyrics, it celebrates the friendship, mutual respect, and goodwill that have long united the two nations.
Beyond a ceremonial tribute, the song underscores the enduring brotherhood and cooperative spirit that form the foundation of Pakistan-UAE relations.