A landmark diplomatic event unfolded on December 14, 2025, as United Arab Emirates President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan conducted the first-ever state visit by a UAE head of state to Cyprus. Hosted by Cypriot President Nikos Christodoulides, this historic engagement signaled a transformative phase in bilateral relations between the Mediterranean nation and the Gulf powerhouse.
The visit culminated in a comprehensive joint declaration that formally elevated the Cyprus-UAE relationship to an implemented strategic partnership. This framework establishes concrete mechanisms for enhanced cooperation across multiple sectors including energy security, defense coordination, technological innovation, trade facilitation, and humanitarian initiatives.
Central to the new partnership is the development of a detailed Joint Action Plan, to be administered by both nations’ foreign ministries, designed to identify and execute specific collaborative projects. The agreement emphasizes economic diversification through renewable energy development, digital infrastructure modernization, and cross-border investment opportunities.
Both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to regional stability, particularly supporting United Nations efforts toward a bizonal, bicommunal resolution of the Cyprus issue. The timing proved strategically significant with Cyprus preparing to assume the Presidency of the Council of the European Union in 2026, positioning the nation as a bridge for enhanced EU-UAE dialogue.
George Partasides, Commercial Counsellor of the Cyprus Trade Centre in the GCC Region, characterized the visit as a pivotal moment that transforms political alignment into practical cooperation. He emphasized the visit’s role in establishing sustainable economic partnerships that would generate long-term value for both nations, particularly in energy, trade, and digitalization sectors.
The UAE reinforced its view of Cyprus as a strategic gateway to European markets, while Cyprus affirmed its position as a stable partner in the Eastern Mediterranean. This visit built upon previous diplomatic foundations established in 2022, marking a decisive shift from theoretical alignment to actionable implementation.