President of the United Arab Emirates Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan arrived in Islamabad on Friday on his first official visit to Pakistan, receiving a ceremonial welcome led by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Chief of Defence Forces and Chief of Army Staff Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir.

The UAE president landed at Nur Khan Air Base, where PM Shehbaz, Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, federal ministers and senior officials received him.

Upon arrival, Sheikh Mohamed and the prime minister exchanged greetings and shook hands, while children in traditional dress presented flowers.

As the UAE president’s aircraft entered Pakistani airspace, Pakistan Air Force JF-17 Thunder jets escorted it and offered an aerial salute.

A 21-gun salute was also presented on arrival, followed by a formal guard of honour by a smartly turned-out contingent of the armed forces. The national anthems of both countries were played.

PM Shehbaz introduced members of the federal cabinet to the visiting dignitary, while Sheikh Mohamed introduced members of his delegation to the prime minister.

During the visit, the UAE president is scheduled to hold talks with PM Shehbaz and meet President Asif Ali Zardari, along with other senior leaders.

The discussions are expected to cover bilateral relations, with a focus on trade, investment, energy cooperation and regional stability, as well as key regional and global issues.

The visit is taking place at the invitation of the Pakistani prime minister and is being described by officials as significant for further strengthening Pakistan-UAE ties.

In Islamabad, security arrangements have been tightened, and the city has been decorated with Pakistani and UAE flags, banners and lights along major roads, including Constitution Avenue.

A public holiday was observed in the federal capital, with courts closed, while banks and essential services remained operational.

Heavy traffic entry into the city was restricted for most of the day as part of the security plan.