The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has confirmed plans to establish an embassy in Fiji, marking a new chapter in diplomatic relations between the two nations.

The announcement was made during a courtesy meeting between the President of the Republic of Fiji, His Excellency Ratu Naiqama Lalabalavu, and the President of the United Arab Emirates, His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, in Abu Dhabi on Wednesday, 5 November 2025.

His Highness Sheikh Mohamed warmly welcomed President Lalabalavu and the First Lady, Her Excellency Emily Lalabalavu, to the Emirates.

During their discussions, President Lalabalavu expressed Fiji’s appreciation for the UAE’s global leadership, particularly during its hosting of COP28 in 2023, and extended an invitation to His Highness to visit Fiji.

He commended the UAE’s remarkable transformation from a resource-limited nation into a global model of innovation and prosperity.

President Lalabalavu highlighted Fiji’s renewable energy potential particularly in solar, wind, and wave power — and welcomed the UAE’s offer of support to help Fiji harness these natural resources.

His Highness Sheikh Mohamed shared insights into the UAE’s journey of development, noting that the country’s progress was driven by visionary leadership, national unity, and strategic investment.

He also praised the Fijian community in the UAE for their warmth, sincerity, and valuable contributions in sectors such as education, healthcare, and aviation.

President Lalabalavu reaffirmed Fiji’s commitment to expanding cooperation with the UAE in areas including health, education, renewable energy, and climate resilience.

Diplomatic relations between Fiji and the UAE were formally established in March 2010. Since then, the two nations have worked closely on shared priorities such as climate action and sustainable development.

Fiji has also benefited from the UAE–Pacific Partnership Fund, which supports renewable energy initiatives across the Pacific region.

The forthcoming establishment of the UAE Embassy in Suva is expected to further strengthen bilateral cooperation and deepen people-to-people ties between the two countries.