President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has embarked on a significant one-day working visit to the United Arab Emirates, underscoring the Philippines' active role on the global stage. The trip, undertaken upon the invitation of UAE President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, aims to bolster bilateral ties and address pressing worldwide concerns.
Key Engagements at Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week
President Marcos arrived at Al Bateen Airport in Abu Dhabi at 11:09 p.m. Philippine time on January 12, 2026. He was formally welcomed by UAE Minister of State Saeed Al Hajeri, alongside Philippine Foreign Affairs Secretary Ma. Theresa Lazaro and Ambassador to the UAE Alfonso Ver.
The core of his visit is participation in the prestigious Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week (ADSW). This annual global forum gathers heads of state, government, and experts to forge collaborative solutions to interconnected challenges. In his departure speech, President Marcos emphasized that the Philippines is poised to actively contribute to critical discussions on energy, water security, finance, food security, and environmental protection.
He stated his intention to share the country's perspectives on these complex issues while gaining valuable insights from other world leaders, positioning the Philippines as a proactive participant in shaping the global sustainability agenda.
Signing of Landmark Bilateral Agreements
A major highlight of the working visit is the signing of two pivotal agreements between the Philippines and the UAE, which President Marcos will witness.
The first is the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA), a free trade pact expected to dramatically expand Philippine market access in the Middle East, particularly within the lucrative Gulf region. This agreement is anticipated to open new doors for Philippine exports and businesses.
The second is a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on Defense Cooperation. This accord is designed to establish a robust framework for collaboration in advanced defense technologies, marking a significant step in deepening strategic ties between the two nations.
President Marcos expressed strong confidence that these agreements will yield substantial benefits for Filipinos both in the homeland and for the approximately 900,000 Filipino expatriates residing and working in the UAE.
Meeting the Filipino Community
Beyond the formal diplomatic and economic agenda, President Marcos is scheduled to meet with members of the vibrant Filipino community in the UAE. This engagement highlights the administration's recognition of overseas Filipinos as key partners and stakeholders in the nation's progress.
The whirlwind visit encapsulates the Marcos administration's foreign policy thrust of engaging with global partners to secure economic opportunities and enhance the country's strategic position, all while safeguarding the welfare of its citizens abroad.
