Pakistan’s President Asif Ali Zardari has made an unexpected four-day visit to the United Arab Emirates following the UAE’s cancellation of the Islamabad International Airport deal and the signing of a defense agreement with India.
Relations between Pakistan and the UAE have grown increasingly tense, with Islamabad historically dependent on Gulf loans to sustain its struggling economy. After Pakistan aligned more closely with Saudi Arabia, the UAE turned its attention to India, culminating in the recent defense pact. In a related move, the UAE withdrew from the Islamabad airport project, prompting Zardari’s urgent visit.
Zardari Arrives in Abu Dhabi
President Zardari and Pakistan’s Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi arrived in Abu Dhabi on Monday for discussions on trade, economic cooperation, defense, and security. The muted welcome, reportedly limited to the UAE Justice Minister, underscores the strained relations. Pakistani officials are seeking to expand their influence under the guise of regional security, while exploring avenues for Gulf financial support.
Pakistan’s Shift Towards Saudi Arabia
The UAE reportedly recognized Pakistan’s increasing alignment with Saudi Arabia and subsequently prioritized its partnership with India. Historically, the UAE has been a major economic and defense partner for Pakistan, providing loans, training, and investment. Over 1.5 million Pakistanis work in the UAE, and the two countries have longstanding defense cooperation. However, Pakistan’s efforts to forge closer ties with Saudi Arabia and Turkey, including proposals for an “Islamic NATO,” have heightened tensions with the UAE.
UAE Strengthens Ties with India
In response to Pakistan’s moves, the UAE has deepened its strategic relationship with India, including signing a major defense deal. UAE President Mohammed bin Zayed recently visited India, signaling a commitment to long-term military and economic collaboration. Analysts suggest that disputes over the Muslim Brotherhood and regional influence with Turkey have also motivated the UAE to pivot away from Pakistan.
Cancellation of Islamabad Airport Deal
Negotiations over the Islamabad International Airport project had been ongoing since August 2025. With the UAE now uninterested in the project, Pakistan faces a significant diplomatic and economic setback, further compounding the challenges in its relations with Gulf partners.
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