President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has arrived in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates (UAE), for a working visit that underscores Manila’s commitment to deepen ties with Abu Dhabi in trade, defense, and sustainable development. 

The visit, undertaken upon the invitation of UAE President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, marks their second meeting in just 14 months—following a 15-year gap in high-level exchanges—signaling renewed momentum in Philippines–UAE relations. 

Philippine Ambassador to the UAE Alfonso Ver described the engagement as both symbolic and substantive. “In a short span of time, dalawang beses sila magkikita… Before that, it was 15 years bago ulit nagka-visit. Symbolically and substantively, ang laki nung ibig sabihin noon,” Ver told Radio Television Malacañang (RTVM). 

A centerpiece of the visit is President Marcos’ participation in the Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week (ADSW), a premier global forum tackling climate change, renewable energy, and sustainable economic growth. 

Ver emphasized the importance of the Philippines’ presence at ADSW, noting the country’s vulnerability to climate risks and its growing expertise in resilience and adaptation. “We’re one of the most vulnerable countries to climate change, so we need all the help that we can get. But aside from that, we’re also here to share what we know,” he said. 

At least 12 to 14 heads of state are expected to attend the forum, further highlighting its role as a platform for high-level dialogue. 

Trade and Defense Agreements 

During the visit, Manila and Abu Dhabi are poised to sign several landmark agreements, including the long-negotiated Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA). The deal will expand cooperation in trade, services, and investments, while opening wider access for the Philippines to the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) market, which includes Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE. 

“We were one of the very first countries to be offered to conclude this agreement, and finally, we’re doing it. It just goes to show nag-iiba na rin ang relations natin dito,” Ver noted. 

In addition, a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on Defense Cooperation is expected to be signed, covering joint training, officer exchanges, and information sharing. The agreement builds on existing security collaboration and expands cooperation into areas such as counterterrorism, transnational crime, illegal drugs, and human trafficking. 

Emerging Areas of Cooperation 

Beyond traditional sectors, both countries are exploring partnerships in artificial intelligence, renewable energy, and the digital economy—fields where the Philippines has growing strengths and competitive advantages. 

President Marcos is also scheduled to hold business meetings and engage with the Filipino community in Abu Dhabi, reaffirming the government’s commitment to overseas workers while elevating bilateral relations to new levels.