Prabowo's Visit to the UAE Reinforces Indonesia's New Direction in Investment Diplomacy in the Region

President Prabowo Subianto has continued his foreign tour by meeting United Arab Emirates President Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan at Qasr Al Bahr, Abu Dhabi, on Thursday 26 February 2026.

The meeting took place in a relaxed atmosphere preceding the breaking of the Ramadan fast in the palace gardens, yet carried strategic significance regarding investment, energy, and long-term economic partnership between Indonesia and the UAE.

In an official statement from the Indonesian Government Communications Agency, President Prabowo expressed gratitude for the warm reception, whilst President MBZ welcomed the Indonesian delegation directly as a key regional strategic partner.

The visit reinforces economic diplomacy as a priority within Indonesia’s foreign policy framework, responding to substantial investment requirements for infrastructure development, industrial downstream processing, and national energy transformation.

The bilateral meeting also marks an important juncture in bilateral relations, as 2026 marks the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Indonesia and the United Arab Emirates.

Indonesia-UAE relations have developed rapidly over the past decade, particularly since enhanced cooperation in investment and clean energy initiatives has been consistently promoted by both governments.

The UAE is recognised as one of Indonesia’s leading Middle Eastern strategic investors, including involvement in energy projects, infrastructure, and the development of future economic zones based on sustainability principles.

In an official press statement, both leaders discussed the strengthening of cross-sectoral cooperation to create direct benefits for the welfare of both nations’ populations.