Erbil strengthened its regional ties on Monday as President Nechirvan Barzani welcomed the new Emirati Consul General, Ahmed al-Shehhi. The meeting highlighted a shared commitment to deeper cooperation and long-term economic partnership growth between Erbil and Abu Dhabi.
President Barzani greeted Shehhi in Erbil and outlined several areas for broader collaboration. He emphasized that Erbil supports stronger engagement and encourages more direct Emirati involvement in long-term development plans. Shehhi expressed similar enthusiasm and stressed his desire to build productive relationships across the Region.
Both sides quickly moved into detailed discussions about investment. They reviewed ongoing projects and highlighted new opportunities across key sectors. Moreover, they agreed that steady economic partnership growth can create greater stability and stronger commercial momentum. They also discussed ways to accelerate investment approvals and improve coordination with business leaders.
Furthermore, the meeting covered the recent legislative elections in Iraq and the Kurdistan Region. The two sides examined political trends and assessed their impact on future economic activity. They also reviewed regional developments and considered how stronger ties could support broader cooperation.
The UAE maintains one of the strongest economic footprints in the Kurdistan Region. The country opened its consulate in Erbil in 2012 and steadily expanded its investments. According to recent figures, Emirati investment now exceeds $3.3 billion. Officials also noted that more than 200 UAE companies operate across the Region. These companies remain active in construction, energy, trade, and other sectors.
Trade links also continue to grow. A significant share of goods entering the Kurdistan Region passes through UAE ports. These routes support steady commercial flow and offer reliable market access for regional suppliers. Additionally, the UAE-based Dana Gas continues to drive major progress in natural gas development. The company invests in technology, infrastructure, and local capacity.
Emaar’s large Downtown Erbil project also remains one of the most notable Emirati ventures. The development aims to transform central Erbil and attract new business. It strengthens the Region’s commercial landscape and supports long-term urban growth.
More recently, Erbil expanded its agricultural cooperation with Abu Dhabi. The Kurdistan Regional Government exported around 6,000 tons of local potatoes to the UAE. This step helped diversify trade and highlighted the value of continued economic partnership growth.
Erbil and Abu Dhabi now look toward a new phase of collaboration. Their shared goals indicate rising confidence, stronger regional ties, and a clear vision for the future.
