President Asif Ali Zardari’s Private Visit to the UAE

President Asif Ali Zardari of Pakistan is currently on a two-day private visit to Dubai, United Arab Emirates (UAE), which began on March 13, 2025. During his absence, Senate Chairman Yousuf Raza Gilani has been appointed as the acting president of Pakistan. Zardari is expected to return on March 15, 2025. While the visit has been described as private, no official details have been shared regarding its purpose. However, there is speculation that it may involve personal or property-related matters.

Zardari has a long-standing connection with the UAE, both politically and personally. In recent years, he has frequently traveled to the country, which has been a second home for many Pakistani leaders. His ties with the UAE leadership remain strong, as seen in his meeting with Abu Dhabi’s Crown Prince, Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, in Islamabad on February 27, 2025. During that meeting, both leaders discussed strengthening bilateral ties in trade, infrastructure, and business. Five cooperation agreements were signed to enhance collaboration between the two nations.

One of the key moments from that meeting was the awarding of the Nishan-i-Pakistan, the highest civilian honor in Pakistan, to the Abu Dhabi Crown Prince. This gesture highlighted the deep diplomatic relationship between the two countries. Pakistan and the UAE have historically maintained close economic and political ties, with many Pakistani expatriates contributing to the UAE’s workforce. Such visits and meetings play a crucial role in keeping this relationship strong.

Zardari’s frequent travels to the UAE also have a personal dimension. In April 2022, he visited the country after his name was removed from Pakistan’s Exit Control List. Additionally, past reports, including WikiLeaks disclosures, suggest that during his presidency (2008–2013), he considered arrangements for refuge in the UAE. These past instances indicate that the UAE has often been a preferred destination for him for both personal and political reasons.

His current visit has sparked discussions online, particularly on social media platform X (formerly Twitter). Some users are hopeful that this trip will lead to meaningful diplomatic or economic outcomes, while others view it as a routine private visit. Despite the mixed reactions, official statements have confirmed that this is not a state visit, reinforcing the idea that the purpose is more personal than political.

With Gilani temporarily assuming presidential duties, the Pakistani government continues to function as usual. Zardari’s visit, while private, once again highlights the importance of Pakistan’s relationship with the UAE. Whether this trip results in any significant developments remains to be seen, but his frequent engagements with UAE leaders suggest that these ties will continue to evolve.