VIDEO: Macron in UAE for bilateral talks, Christmas with French troops
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- Macron visits UAE to boost France-UAE ties in economy, tech, and culture.
- Spends Christmas with French troops stationed in the UAE.
French President Emmanuel Macron arrived in the United Arab Emirates on Sunday, December 21, for official bilateral talks with UAE leadership and to spend Christmas with French military personnel stationed in the Gulf.
Meeting with UAE Leadership: Strengthening Strategic Ties
President Macron was welcomed in Abu Dhabi by Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, at the Zayed National Museum. The meeting, attended by senior UAE officials and members of Macron’s delegation, included exchanging New Year greetings and discussions on deepening cooperation across multiple sectors.
According to official statements, discussions focused on:
- Economic and investment cooperation
- Renewable energy and sustainability
- Advanced technology, including artificial intelligence
- Cultural and educational exchanges
The leaders reaffirmed the longstanding strategic partnership between the UAE and France and emphasized mutual interests in economic growth and regional stability.
France’s Strategic Agenda with the UAE
The UAE and France share a multi‑decade partnership, with cooperation spanning culture, defense, education, and industry. A major 17th session of the UAE‑France Strategic Dialogue earlier this year reinforced collaboration in areas like space, health, and nuclear energy, framing today’s talks as part of an ongoing, broader engagement.
Both sides have previously emphasized the importance of deepening economic integration and collaboration on technology and innovation, including major investment initiatives such as a large AI project backed by UAE funding in France.
Christmas with French Troops Overseas
As part of tradition, President Macron spends the holiday season with French troops stationed abroad. More than 900 military personnel are deployed in the UAE, where they play a role in joint anti‑drug trafficking patrols and broader regional security operations.
The French president is scheduled to meet with troops later on Sunday, share a Christmas meal prepared by Elysée chefs, and deliver remarks acknowledging their service during the holiday season.
Security and Regional Cooperation
Macron’s visit highlights France’s interest in broader regional security cooperation, including intelligence sharing and defense partnerships. French authorities have previously urged the UAE to cooperate on extraditing suspected drug traffickers believed to be operating in the Gulf region.
French military units in the UAE also participate in EU naval missions in the Red Sea and anti‑IS operations in the Middle East, reflecting France’s continued commitment to security alongside diplomatic engagement in the Gulf.
Macron’s visit underscores France’s dual priorities in the region: strengthening diplomatic and economic relationships with key Gulf partners while supporting French forces abroad, even during the holiday season.
His talks with UAE officials reaffirm both nations’ intent to enhance cooperation on security, innovation, and long‑term strategic goals.
