The Philippines and the United Arab Emirates are set to further strengthen diplomatic and economic ties during President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr.’s working visit to Abu Dhabi this week. This marks President Marcos’ second visit to the UAE in just 14 months, highlighting the growing momentum in bilateral relations between the two countries. The last Philippine presidential visit to the UAE before this was 15 years ago, making the recent engagements significant both symbolically and substantively.
Philippine Ambassador to the UAE Alfonso Ferdinand Ver noted that President Marcos and UAE President Sheikh Mohamed Bin Zayed Al Nahyan will be meeting for the second time in a short period, reflecting closer cooperation at the highest level. President Marcos departed Manila on Monday for what is also his first overseas trip of the year.
A key outcome of the visit is the expected signing of the Philippines-UAE Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA). The agreement aims to expand cooperation in trade, services, and investments, while also opening wider access for the Philippines to other Gulf Cooperation Council member states, including Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Oman, Bahrain, and Kuwait. Initial discussions on CEPA began during Expo 2020 Dubai.
The visit coincides with Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week, a global forum attended by several heads of state to discuss climate change, energy transition, and food and water security. Ambassador Ver highlighted the Philippines’ participation as especially relevant, given its vulnerability to climate change, and noted the country’s willingness to share its experiences and solutions.
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