United Arab Emirates President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan will arrive in Pakistan on Friday for an official visit, during which he is expected to hold wide-ranging discussions on bilateral ties and regional security.

Arrangements for the visit have been finalised, and the UAE president will be accorded a grand welcome upon his arrival, officials said.

President Asif Ali Zardari will host Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed during the visit.

Talks between the two sides will focus on further strengthening cooperation in the economic, trade and investment sectors.

Regional peace and security, as well as defence cooperation, will also feature prominently in the discussions.

Officials said the visit would prove to be a significant milestone in deepening bilateral relations and advancing shared regional interests.

A joint statement is expected to be issued following the meetings, outlining the state of relations and future areas of cooperation between Pakistan and the UAE.