Prabowo, MBZ Bolster Strategic Partnership During Abu Dhabi Visit

Abu Dhabi: Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto held a bilateral meeting with the President of the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan (MBZ), at the Qasr Al Bahr Palace in Abu Dhabi on Thursday, February 26, 2026.

The meeting was a central part of the President's working visit to the UAE, aimed at strengthening a strategic partnership that has seen rapid growth in recent years.

A Warm and Familial Welcome

Upon his arrival at Qasr Al Bahr, President Prabowo was warmly received by President MBZ. The meeting took place in the palace’s open garden against the backdrop of the Abu Dhabi sunset, creating an intimate and familial atmosphere.

The two delegations sat in a circular formation, symbolizing a dialogue rooted in equality, openness, and mutual respect. This sense of brotherhood was further emphasized as the leaders shared a fast-breaking (Iftar) meal and performed the Maghrib prayer in congregation, marking the solemnity of the Ramadan season.

Strategic Cooperation and Investment

Following the informal greeting, the dialogue transitioned into an expanded meeting to discuss several high-priority strategic agendas. Key topics included:

• Energy Cooperation: Enhancing sustainability and infrastructure.
• Investment: Expanding capital flow into Indonesia’s strategic sectors.
• Economic Partnerships: Mapping out future collaborations to benefit both nations.

President Prabowo was accompanied by a high-level delegation, including Foreign Minister Sugiono, Minister of Energy and Mineral Resources Bahlil Lahadalia, Cabinet Secretary Teddy Indra Wijaya, and President Director of PT Pindad Sigit P. Santosa.

On the UAE side, President MBZ was joined by senior officials including Minister of Energy and Infrastructure Suhail Al Mazrouei and Presidential Court Advisor Mohamed bin Hamad Al Nahyan.

50 Years of Diplomatic Relations

The visit holds significant historical weight as 2026 marks the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Indonesia and the UAE. Both leaders expressed a strong determination to use this half-century milestone as a foundation for a "new chapter" of deeper and more impactful cooperation.

The day concluded with a private one-on-one (tête-à-tête) session. The direct conversation reflected the close personal ties between Prabowo and MBZ, underscoring their shared commitment to the welfare of their respective peoples.

President Prabowo and his entourage arrived at Abu Dhabi Presidential Airport on Wednesday evening, February 25, 2026, via the Garuda Indonesia-1 aircraft.

He was greeted at the aircraft steps by UAE Minister of Energy Suhail Al Mazrouei and Indonesian Ambassador to the UAE Judha Nugraha. A guard of honor lined the runway, signaling the high level of respect accorded to the Indonesian Head of State by the UAE government.

This visit underscores Indonesia’s active diplomacy in the Middle East and highlights President Prabowo’s commitment to expanding a network of mutually beneficial global partnerships.