In a significant session at the Arab Media Forum, held under the auspices of the “Arab Media Summit 2026,” Her Highness Sheikha Latifah bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairperson of the Dubai Culture and Arts Authority, observed Dr Anwar Mohammed Gargash, the diplomatic advisor to the President of the UAE, present the UAE’s vision for navigating the rapidly shifting regional and international landscape. He emphasised the nation’s steadfast commitment to safeguarding sovereignty and national interests, striking a balance between deterrence and diplomatic flexibility while advocating for dialogue as the optimal path to enhance regional security, stability, and prosperity.
A Unique Emirati Approach to Regional Changes
Dr Gargash articulated that the vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the President of the UAE, has established a distinct Emirati model for addressing major regional transformations grounded in wisdom, proactiveness, adherence to national principles, and investment in human capital. This approach also focuses on fostering a diverse economy capable of adapting to change and shaping the future.
Diplomatic Flexibility and National Security
During his remarks, Dr Gargash highlighted Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed’s adept crisis management strategy, which marries diplomatic flexibility meant to foster peace with a robust stance on defending national security and interests. “Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed is at the forefront of advocating for deterrence concerning the security of the UAE and for diplomacy wherever there exists space for dialogue,” he stated.
Managing Regional Relations with Iran
In one of the pivotal discussions at the forum entitled “Media in Times of Great Transformations,” Dr Gargash outlined the nature of the UAE’s relationship with Iran amidst current developments. He emphasised a dual approach: one focused on managing crises and minimising damages, and the other on envisioning future relations that foster new understandings to support regional security and stability.
“The UAE prioritises the protection of its sovereignty and its citizens while continuing its economic and developmental path,” he noted, underscoring the necessity of distinguishing between maintaining relations and rebuilding trust. “While relationships are essential, communication must extend beyond daily issues such as trade and transportation to address deeper concerns about safeguarding against aggression and crafting a stable future for both nations and the region,” he added.
Building Trust in a Complex Landscape
Dr Gargash clarified that while relationships are vital, rebuilding trust is a different challenge that will require considerable time, given the profound impacts of recent regional developments. He stressed that engaging with regional relations should be based on a pragmatic and realistic vision that acknowledges the geographical, historical, and economic realities of the region, while also noting that trust restoration demands significant time and tangible actions.
The Path to Regional Security
Addressing the measures necessary for restoring security and stability, he stated, “The first step is to halt aggression in all its forms. One cannot negotiate a new future while simultaneously facing threats and aggression.” He also urged Iranian decision-makers to reconsider their approach to Gulf states, advocating for respect of sovereignty and the avoidance of targeting actions that threaten regional security.
The UAE aims to assist Iran in overcoming its crises and re-establishing its economic and developmental trajectory, he remarked, yet emphasised that this requires a realistic approach predicated on de-escalation and stable relationships with neighbouring countries. Dr Gargash asserted, “The UAE has defended itself, and will continue to do so, but at the same time extends a hand of friendship and opens the door to dialogue.”
Shared Security in the Gulf Region
Furthermore, Dr Gargash reiterated that UAE policy is centered on ensuring national interests and citizen security while maintaining channels of diplomatic dialogue. He acknowledged the complexity of decision-making circles within Iran, necessitating a careful analysis of positions and statements from the country.
Addressing the meeting between His Highness Sheikh Khalid bin Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi, and Iranian President Masoud Bezhikian, Dr Gargash noted it reflected the UAE’s ongoing commitment to ensuring national interests while keeping communication lines open. He described the encounter as “very good,” indicating that although full agreement on various topics was not achieved, there is mutual recognition of the need to move past the current phase to establish a future beneficial for both nations and the broader region.
Voices of Moderation and Internal Stability
He commended the “moderate voices” within Iran that advocate for halting aggression against Gulf states, recognizing them as a rational presence amidst the crisis. Such voices can potentially contribute to peaceful and diplomatic resolutions to the challenges faced, regardless of whether they hold the highest level of decision-making power or are part of broader decision-making frameworks.
Dr Gargash underscored that internal strength is paramount for any nation to safeguard its security and sovereignty, praising the capability and readiness of the UAE Armed Forces. “The UAE did not choose this war, but when it threatened its core interests, it defended itself,” he stated, emphasising the UAE’s consistent, diplomatic approach in response to developments.
Interconnected Security and Economic Interests
In discussing UAE-Saudi relations and the associated security developments, Dr Gargash affirmed that the security of Saudi Arabia is intrinsically linked to the security of the UAE. He articulated, “A stable and prosperous Saudi Arabia is in our interest, and any threat to Saudi security ultimately impacts our own.” This interdependence extends to economic realms, where moving beyond a “zero-sum” mindset is essential, he highlighted, as the prosperity of one Gulf country reflects positively on others.
Dr Gargash assured that channels of communication between the UAE and Saudi Arabia remain open, with the security, stability, and prosperity of both nations being deeply interlinked.
Stance Against Aggression and Emphasis on Maritime Security
Regarding the Houthi targeting efforts, Dr Gargash reiterated the UAE’s unequivocal rejection of any attempts to target Mecca or any region within Saudi Arabia. He noted the long-standing consequences of militia and state-unsupported weaponry in the region, whether in Lebanon, Iraq, or Yemen, declaring that the UAE’s stance is to support national states and bolster their institutions.
He stated that weapons outside state control do not promote the security of the concerned state, but instead undermine regional stability and security. Dr Gargash affirmed, “International straits and waterways must operate on the principle of freedom of navigation and the safe flow of trade.” He reiterated the UAE’s committed and unwavering stance against any party seeking to obstruct this principle, cautioning that acceptance of threats to international navigation today may precipitate greater crises in the future.
“Any attempt to control the Bab el Mandeb or threaten ship movements there raises significant concerns, given that the implications extend beyond the region to affect global economies and international trade and supply chains,” he warned.
Dr Anwar Gargash:
- The vision of Mohammed bin Zayed has established a distinct Emirati model for responding to major regional transformations rooted in wisdom and adherence to national principles.
- The UAE safeguards its interests while extending a hand for dialogue; halting Iranian aggression is foundational for building a new future.
- It is impossible to negotiate a new future while threats and aggression persist.
- The UAE’s policy focuses on protecting national interests and citizen security alongside maintaining open channels for diplomatic dialogue.
- The UAE has defended itself, and will continue to do so, while simultaneously extending friendship and dialogue.
- The security of Saudi Arabia is integral to the security of the UAE, with the prosperity of the kingdom a mutual Gulf interest.