Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa will visit the United Arab Emirates on Sunday, marking his second trip to a Gulf country since assuming office.
State news agency SANA reported that Foreign Minister Assad al-Shibani will accompany Sharaa, though specific details of the agenda remain undisclosed.
The visit underscores efforts by Syria’s new government to rebuild regional and international trust following the fall of Bashar al-Assad in December.
Sharaa’s first foreign trip as president was to Saudi Arabia in February, a symbolic move reflecting Syria’s reorientation toward Sunni-led Arab nations.
The UAE has long opposed political movements and previously voiced deep concerns over Syria’s stability and the threat of extremism.
This diplomatic outreach comes as Damascus seeks to secure economic relief and reestablish ties with Arab and Western powers after years of isolation.
Western nations are closely monitoring Syria’s leadership, expecting a commitment to inclusive governance and institutional reform amid fears of renewed extremism.
The Syrian economy remains in tatters after 14 years of war, compounded by sweeping U.S. and European sanctions aimed at Assad’s former regime.
For Sharaa, the path to legitimacy abroad hinges on building confidence at home — a nation weary of war and hungry for change.
