Hello and welcome to Emirati, a monthly newsletter from The National.
A nation’s diplomacy is only as strong as the people who represent it. This month, we celebrate five exceptional Emirati ambassadors who have played a crucial role in strengthening the UAE’s global presence.
The ambassadors have skilfully navigated complex political landscapes, forged vital economic partnerships and contributed to historic agreements – whether securing visa-free access, strengthening energy co-operation or opening new pathways for trade and diplomacy.
Their work is not only a reflection of the UAE’s vision but also a testament to how a young nation can stand tall on the global stage. It is a source of immense pride for a young nation to have such skilled envoys navigating global challenges.
In this edition, we take you inside the world of diplomacy – sharing the stories of the five skilled envoys, their challenges, and the impact they continue to make.
Thank you for reading,
Shireena Al Nowais
From Costa Rica to Japan: the UAE ambassadors building ties across the globe
A dedicated team of Emirati envoys proudly representing the UAE on the global stage have told of their mission to “make a difference through diplomacy” and help to pave the way for a more peaceful and prosperous future for all.
UAE ambassadors serving in key international postings such as Japan, Costa Rica, Ireland and Austria are striving to change perceptions, build bridges and connect cultures with the goal of effecting change in the Emirates and in their adopted homes.
The National spoke to five globe-trotting diplomats seeking to spread their nation's values far and wide while they were back on home ground to take part in the Forum of UAE Ambassadors and Representatives of Missions Abroad, in Abu Dhabi this month.
They are Rawdha Alotaiba, who has dedicated 21 years to the UAE foreign service; Shihab Al Faheem, the UAE's Ambassador to Japan since December 2020; Mohammed Al Shamsi, UAE Ambassador to Ireland; Hamad Al Kaabi, who has served for more than 15 years as the UAE’s Ambassador to Austria; and Nawal Al Hosany, who serves as the UAE’s Resident Representative to the International Renewable Energy Agency.
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Did you know?
The UAE has more than 120 diplomatic missions abroad, spanning six of the world's seven continents.
Month of successful mediation highlights Gulf’s growing influence in global diplomacy
In four weeks and across different regions, Gulf nations helped negotiate ceasefires, secure the release of captives, facilitate prisoner exchanges and resolve political stalemates, demonstrating how they have expanded their influence in diplomacy and international relations.
The UAE, Saudi Arabia, Oman and Qatar have increasingly taken on roles once reserved for traditional global powers, mediating agreements and de-escalating crises. Analysts argue this shift underscores the rising influence of so-called middle powers in international politics. It also highlights the desire of these nations, historically regarded as economic powerhouses and energy suppliers, to secure stability in neighbouring countries and set the wider region on a path to recovery.
Hasan Alhasan, senior fellow for Middle East policy at the London-based International Institute for Strategic Studies, said Arab Gulf states were drawn to conflict mediation for strategic reasons. “It puts them in the global spotlight, strengthens their ties with major powers and, when successful, helps stabilise war-torn nations in the Middle East,” he said.
“The Gulf states’ significant role in diplomacy reflects their rising global influence and the expanding space for regional powers to shape geopolitical outcomes,” added Mr Alhasan. “However, mediation is not without challenges. It carries reputational risks and can drain state resources, often with no guarantee of success or tangible results.”
In January, Israel and Hamas agreed to a ceasefire in the Gaza Strip, pausing 15 months of war. The agreement was brokered through indirect negotiations mediated by Qatar, the US and Egypt.
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UAE and Ukraine sign landmark trade deal
The UAE and Ukraine formally signed a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement earlier this month, as they seek to boost trade and investment ties.
The deal was signed by Dr Thani Al Zeyoudi, Minister of State for Foreign Trade, and Yulia Svyrydenko, Ukraine's First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Economy, in the presence of President Sheikh Mohamed and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.
Sheikh Mohamed also held talks with Mr Zelenskyy in Abu Dhabi as part of his visit to the Emirates. The two leaders explored ways to strengthen partnerships in key areas such as the economy, investment, development, renewable energy and food security.
The trade deal is set to contribute an estimated $369 million to the UAE’s gross domestic product and $874 million to the Ukrainian economy by 2031. Under the terms, 99 per cent of Ukrainian imports of UAE goods and 97 per cent of Ukrainian exports to the Emirates will be exempt from customs duties, with immediate effect.
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