The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has officially announced plans to establish an embassy in Fiji, signaling a promising advancement in diplomatic relations between the two nations. This announcement came during a meeting on November 5, 2025, held in Abu Dhabi between Fiji’s President, His Excellency Ratu Naiqama Lalabalavu, and UAE President, His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan.
President Lalabalavu extended heartfelt appreciation towards the UAE for its global leadership, especially highlighted during its role as the host for COP28 in 2023. He also invited Sheikh Mohamed to visit Fiji, demonstrating Fiji’s openness to strengthening these ties. The Fijian leader commended the UAE’s significant growth from a resource-limited country to a beacon of innovation and global prosperity.
Discussions during the meeting noted Fiji’s vast potential in renewable energy sources, particularly solar, wind, and wave power. The UAE’s commitment to supporting Fiji’s objectives to harness these resources aligns perfectly with Fiji’s aspirations towards clean energy and sustainable development, showcasing a mutual dedication to addressing climate change and increasing climate resilience.
Sheikh Mohamed highlighted the progress made by the UAE, attributing it to visionary leadership, unity, and strategic investment. He acknowledged the valuable contributions of the Fijian community in the UAE, reinforcing the people-to-people connections that form the backbone of the diplomatic relationship.
Since the establishment of formal diplomatic relations in March 2010, Fiji has benefited from initiatives like the UAE–Pacific Partnership Fund, which has supported various renewable energy projects across the Pacific. The forthcoming establishment of the UAE embassy in Suva is expected to further enhance bilateral cooperation, paving the way for deeper collaboration not just politically but across various sectors including health, education, and economic partnerships.
This move reflects a broader trend of Fiji expanding its international diplomatic ties, positioning itself as an emerging player in the Pacific region. As both nations look towards the future, the anticipated collaborations could lead to significant advancements in sustainable development, showcasing the potential for nations to unite on common goals and forge a prosperous path forward together.