Abu dhabi: The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is taking a dual approach to regional stability by seeking to ease tensions with Iran while simultaneously strengthening military ties with the United States and Israel. This strategy aims to safeguard the UAE's economic and security interests amid increased regional tensions. According to Radio Free Europe Radio Liberty, UAE President Sheikh Muhammad bin Zayed Al Nahyan has entrusted three of his brothers with the task of managing diplomatic contacts with Tehran. These efforts, led by Vice President Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Foreign Minister Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, and National Security Adviser Sheikh Tahnoon bin Zayed Al Nahyan, aim to reduce hostilities. Recent communications between Mansour bin Zayed and Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf, as well as between Abdullah bin Zayed and Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi, underscore the diplomatic efforts underway. The UAE initiated this policy following a fragile cease-fire b etween Iran and the United States, and intensified its efforts after a memorandum of understanding between Tehran and Washington was signed on June 12. However, recent escalations, including Iran's missile and drone attacks on several Gulf states, have tested this strategy. In response, the UAE has endeavored to avoid direct military confrontation with Tehran, marking a shift from earlier conflict phases when the UAE was a primary target of Iranian attacks. The conflict has also impacted the UAE's Iranian community, with residency permits of approximately 20,000 Iranians suspended during the conflict. Reports indicate that some permits are being reinstated, though many remain unresolved. Additionally, travel agencies report that tourist visas for Iranians are not being issued, and new residency applications are not being processed, although renewals for expiring permits continue. Economic considerations, particularly in Dubai, are also driving the UAE's efforts to maintain ties with Iran. A Dubai official q uoted by The Financial Times highlighted Iran's significance as a consumer market and trade hub. An Emirati businessman mentioned the challenges of replacing certain Iranian goods, emphasizing the importance of maintaining economic ties. The conflict has contributed to inflation in the UAE, though government measures aim to control price increases. An Iranian businessman in Dubai noted that while Iranian goods still enter the UAE, the situation around the Strait of Hormuz has led to higher prices. Despite being targeted by approximately 3,000 Iranian attacks during the conflict's early phase, most of which were intercepted, the UAE is cautiously reactivating diplomatic and economic channels with Iran while deepening its military relationship with Israel and the United States. This strategy reflects Abu Dhabi's challenge of balancing Western security partnerships with the need for stable relations with its powerful neighbor, Iran.
