President Trump receives the UAE’s highest civilian honour – the Order of Zayed – as he and H.H. Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed reaffirm a deepening strategic partnership across technology, defence, and regional stability.
President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan conferred the Order of Zayed—the United Arab Emirates’ highest civilian honour awarded to heads of state—on US President Donald Trump during his official visit to the UAE. The prestigious decoration recognises Trump’s efforts to bolster ties between the UAE and the United States and to enhance strategic cooperation across key sectors.
The award ceremony, held at Qasr Al Watan in Abu Dhabi, was marked by warm diplomatic overtones and a reaffirmation of the shared values and vision binding the two nations. His Highness lauded President Trump’s personal contributions to reinforcing bilateral relations, stating: “By awarding the Order of Zayed to President Donald Trump, we express our appreciation for his efforts to strengthen the ties that unite the UAE and US while underscoring our shared commitment to further expanding cooperation.”
The gesture not only highlights the UAE’s appreciation of Trump’s diplomatic overtures, but also reflects the enduring and evolving relationship between the two allies—one rooted in mutual trust, economic synergy, and shared geopolitical interests.
A Strategic Partnership for the Future
In discussions held at the presidential palace, both leaders delved into the full spectrum of UAE-US ties, exploring avenues to advance cooperation in investment, energy, artificial intelligence, advanced technology, and defence. Their talks also addressed regional and international developments, particularly the need for joint action to de-escalate tensions and safeguard regional stability.
President Trump’s visit comes at a time of growing global realignments, and both leaders emphasised the value of long-standing alliances. His Highness Sheikh Mohamed noted that the UAE and US share over five decades of strategic partnership, grounded in mutual respect and a joint pursuit of peace and prosperity in the Middle East and beyond.
“The UAE remains a reliable partner to the United States in tackling shared challenges,” said His Highness. “Together, we aim to build a future based on innovation, sustainable development, and regional security.”
The leaders also celebrated the launch of a 1-gigawatt artificial intelligence cluster to be located within an Abu Dhabi-based AI campus. This ambitious project is expected to reinforce the two countries’ alignment in AI, data processing, and smart technologies, placing both nations at the forefront of the global digital economy.
President Trump, for his part, praised the visionary leadership of His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, calling the UAE “a beacon of modernity and strategic foresight in the region.” He noted that the bilateral relationship had reached “new heights” and was poised to become even stronger in the years to come.
Cultural Diplomacy and a Tribute
In addition to high-level political talks, the US President embarked on a cultural and historical visit to the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, accompanied by H.H. Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi. The visit began with a moment of reflection at the mausoleum of the UAE’s Founding Father, the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, where Trump paid tribute to a legacy built on tolerance, coexistence, and visionary leadership.
The delegation was guided through the mosque’s stunning halls and courtyards, receiving detailed insights into its architectural significance and the role it plays in fostering cross-cultural dialogue. They also learned about the mosque’s work to promote the values of Islam and to serve as a global hub for intercultural understanding.
Trump was visibly moved by the experience, remarking in the guestbook at Qasr Al Watan that it was “an honour to witness the legacy of Sheikh Zayed and to deepen the bonds of friendship between our nations.” He reiterated his hope for continued collaboration and progress, wishing the UAE “continued peace, prosperity, and global leadership.”
Banquet Marks Warm Bilateral Ties
To honour the occasion, His Highness Sheikh Mohamed hosted a dinner banquet for President Trump and the accompanying US delegation. The event, attended by senior Emirati royals and ministers, reflected the warmth of the bilateral relationship and its ever-expanding breadth—from defence cooperation and joint investments to shared commitments on climate, innovation, and global stability.
Among the dignitaries present were H.H. Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice President and Deputy Prime Minister; H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai; H.H. Sheikh Tahnoon bin Zayed Al Nahyan, National Security Adviser; and H.H. Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Minister of Foreign Affairs. Their presence underscored the comprehensive nature of the UAE’s engagement with the United States.
A Milestone Visit, A Deeper Alliance
The state visit of President Donald Trump to the UAE signals a renewed era in US-UAE ties. While past decades have seen robust collaboration, particularly in trade and military affairs, the current alignment emphasises a forward-looking agenda. With investments in clean energy, AI, and high-tech industries, both nations appear determined to shape a shared future defined not only by regional influence, but by global innovation and sustainable progress.
