UAE President confers First Class Order of Zayed II on six ambassadors, Medal of Independence on two consuls-general

Honours for diplomatic service

The decorations acknowledge the recipients’ exceptional work in forging and strengthening strategic relations that continue to evolve, as well as in cultivating productive economic ties with both brotherly and friendly countries. The honours also recognise their efforts in serving the UAE’s interests, advancing its national priorities, and supporting the country’s comprehensive development and prosperity.

Bestowed under the directives of the President in recognition of their initiatives and efforts, these awards highlight the importance of economic diplomacy as a cornerstone of diplomatic work. They further underscore the role of UAE missions in advancing national economic priorities and strengthening engagement across various sectors in their host countries. The honours translate bilateral relations into joint projects and initiatives, reinforcing the UAE’s position as a global destination for investment, business, and promising talent.

Presentation ceremony

His Highness Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, presented the orders to the honorees. During the ceremony, he expressed his sincere gratitude and appreciation to President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan for his continued support and guidance, which drive UAE diplomacy toward greater progress and leadership and enable it to keep pace with the nation’s ambitions and aspirations.

Sheikh Abdullah also commended the outstanding efforts of teams across all UAE embassies and their dedication to fulfilling their national duties. He noted that these efforts reflect the UAE’s values, its approach rooted in dialogue, cooperation, and mutual understanding, and its role as an active and influential partner both regionally and globally.

Recipients named

Recipients of the First Class Order of Zayed II include: Fahad Saeed Al Raqbani, UAE Ambassador to the French Republic; Mohammed Hamoud Al Shamsi, UAE Ambassador to the Republic of Ireland; Hamad Obaid Al Zaabi, UAE Ambassador to the Arab Republic of Egypt; Obaid Saeed Al Dhaheri, UAE Ambassador to the Kingdom of Thailand; Fatima Khamis Al Mazrouei, UAE Ambassador to the Kingdom of Norway; and Dr. Ali Obaid Al Dhaheri, UAE Ambassador to the Hellenic Republic.

The Medal of Independence of First Order was awarded to Abdulla Husein Almarzooqi, UAE Consul-General in Mumbai, and Muhannad Sulaiman Al Naqbi, former UAE Consul-General in Shanghai.