AbuDhabi -- The United Arab Emirates and the Republic of Yemen convened the first meeting of their Joint Consular Committee on November 20, 2025, at the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs headquarters in Abu Dhabi. The meeting marked a significant step toward enhancing bilateral cooperation and deepening consular coordination between the two nations.

High-Level Delegations Lead Talks

The UAE delegation was headed by H.E. Omar Obaid Alhesan Alshamsi, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, while the Yemeni side was led by H.E. Awsan Abdullah Ahmed Al-Aud, Undersecretary for Financial and Administrative Affairs at Yemen’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates.

At the outset of the meeting, Alshamsi welcomed the Yemeni delegation and conveyed the greetings of H.H. Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs. He emphasized the deep-rooted and longstanding ties between the two countries, built on mutual respect and constructive engagement across various fields.

Agenda Focused on Consular Services and Citizen Welfare

The discussions covered a wide range of consular issues, including:

- Facilitating services for citizens of both countries, especially Yemeni expatriates in the UAE.

- Enhancing coordination on visa, residency, and labor matters.

- Streamlining procedures for documentation, legal assistance, and consular protection.

Both sides expressed their commitment to institutionalizing the committee as a regular platform for dialogue and problem-solving, with the aim of improving the quality and efficiency of consular services.

A Step Toward Broader Strategic Partnership

The meeting reflects a broader diplomatic effort to revitalize UAE-Yemen relations amid regional challenges. It also aligns with the UAE’s ongoing support for Yemen’s stability and development, particularly in areas of humanitarian aid, infrastructure, and governance.

The two delegations agreed to continue consultations and follow up on the implementation of the committee’s recommendations in future sessions.