President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan met with Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa in Abu Dhabi on Sunday.
The visit marks al-Sharaa’s second trip to a Gulf state since assuming leadership.
The United Arab Emirates welcomed the formation of Syria’s new government last month.
The Emirati president affirmed his country's commitment to supporting Syria's reconstruction efforts. UAE seeks to help Syria "confront the challenges of the transitional phase," according to state news agency WAM.
Sheikh Mohamed stressed that Syria’s stability remains essential to the broader region’s security.
Al-Sharaa travelled to Abu Dhabi with Foreign Minister Assad al-Shibani. The Syrian foreign minister previously visited the UAE earlier this year. Bilateral talks focused on stronger cooperation and regional developments.
UAE’s Evolving Position on Syria’s Leadership
The UAE has historically opposed radical groups associated with the Muslim Brotherhood across the Middle East. Abu Dhabi expressed concerns about Syria’s new rulers shortly after Assad’s fall.
UAE presidential adviser, Anwar Gargash, found the radical affiliation "quite worrying" in December.
Despite initial reservations, the UAE now seeks to establish constructive relations with al-Sharaa’s government. The pragmatic change in Emirati foreign policy represents a notable evolution.
The UAE aims to maintain sway in post-Assad Syria.
Al-Sharaa led the militant group Hay’at Tahrir al-Sham that ended Assad’s rule. The new government requires sanctions relief to revive Syria’s war-torn economy.
The UAE’s financial support could prove priceless during Syria’s transition.
Saudi Arabia Leads Regional Engagement with Damascus
Saudi Arabia has taken the lead in normalising contacts with Syria’s new leadership.
Al-Sharaa conducted his first foreign visit as president to Saudi Arabia in February. The trip preceded his current engagement with the UAE.
A Saudi aviation delegation arrived in Damascus last week to prepare for resuming flights. Ala'a Sallal of Syria's Civil Aviation Authority confirmed the team's arrival at Damascus International Airport. The development represents a concrete step toward normalising transportation links.
Several airlines resumed operations at Damascus International Airport in January. Syria’s aviation authority began handling international flights again that month.
The progress points to the gradual reopening of Syria’s airspace to regional carriers.
Qatar-Türkiye Axis Gains Edge in Syrian Politics
Qatar and Türkiye have emerged as major backers of Syria’s new rulers.
Early support for opposition groups has paid off in spades. Both countries now enjoy privileged contacts with al-Sharaa’s government.
The UAE must now catch up with Qatar’s established pull in Damascus.
Türkiye has expanded its military presence in Syria following Assad’s ousting. Turkish forces positioned themselves at Syria’s Tiyas Air Base, known as T4.
Military positioning seeks to alter regional power balances, particularly Israel.
Western Powers Watch Syria’s Transition Closely
Major countries are monitoring Syria’s new leadership with cautious interest. Officials want to ensure al-Sharaa creates an inclusive government with effective institutions.
Preventing a resurgence of extremist groups remains a priority for Western powers.
Syria established diplomatic contacts with South Korea last week. Diplomats agreed to open embassies in each other’s countries. The outreach shows al-Sharaa’s desire to expand Syria’s diplomatic reach globally.
Syria’s transitional government was officially sworn in on 29 March. The new administration faces the daunting task of rebuilding after 14 years of devastating civil war.
International support will prove necessary for their success.
Israel Complicates Syria’s Regional Integration
Israel has acted to limit Turkish sway in Syria.
Israeli warplanes bombed the T4 airbase on 2 April to block Turkish progress. Airstrikes created craters in the runway, hampering Turkish operations.
The UAE could potentially mediate between Syria and Israel. Abu Dhabi has established contacts with Israel through the Abraham Accords.
The diplomatic position gives the Emirates unique leverage in the region.
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