The United Arab Emirates has announced its commitment to support the reconstruction of Syria, as President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan hosted Syria’s interim leader Ahmed al-Sharaa in Abu Dhabi on Sunday. The meeting marks a significant diplomatic development following the toppling of longtime Syrian ruler Bashar al-Assad last December.
“Sheikh Mohamed affirmed the UAE’s keenness to stand by Syria during its transitional phase and to assist in rebuilding the country,” reported the official Emirati news agency WAM.
Since assuming leadership, Sharaa has embarked on a campaign to secure financial aid from Gulf states, aiming to rebuild Syria’s devastated infrastructure and economy. His visit to the UAE—alongside Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shaibani—signals an attempt to solidify regional backing amid a delicate political transition.
Despite offering support, the UAE has expressed caution. In earlier statements, UAE presidential adviser Anwar Gargash described Syria’s new Islamist-leaning leadership as “quite worrying,” highlighting Abu Dhabi’s longstanding distrust of political Islam and concerns over increased Turkish influence in the country’s affairs.
During their Sunday talks, Al Nahyan emphasized the importance of Syria’s stability, stating that “enhanced security in Syria serves the interests of the entire region.” He added that the UAE would “spare no effort” in helping the Syrian people in the months ahead.
According to Syrian state media, the two sides discussed regional stability and joint efforts to support development and peace. The meeting follows a phone conversation in January where both leaders stressed the need for strong bilateral cooperation.
Meanwhile, in a notable shift within Syria’s security landscape, the prominent southern armed faction known as the Eighth Brigade announced its official dissolution on Sunday. In a video statement, spokesman Colonel Mohamed al-Hourani declared that the group—formerly a dominant force in southern Syria—was integrating into the government’s armed forces.
“We officially announce the dissolution of this formation and hand over all our military and personnel capabilities to the Ministry of Defence,” he stated, signaling a broader move toward centralization of military power under Syria’s transitional government.
After more than 13 years of conflict, Syria now faces the enormous task of reconstruction while navigating international sanctions, internal restructuring, and regional skepticism. As one of the wealthiest and most diplomatically active Gulf nations, the UAE’s support could play a pivotal role in shaping Syria’s post-conflict future.
