By Maria Camilleri Calleja, Ambassador of Malta to the UAE

In a period marked by heightened regional tensions and evolving security risks, I wish to express my Government’s deepest appreciation to the leadership of the United Arab Emirates. Under the wise leadership of His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the UAE has demonstrated a steadfast commitment to the safety and security of all residents and foreign nationals, including Maltese and European citizens.

The United Arab Emirates has stood as an unshakeable pillar of calm, resolve, and quiet determination. We express our sincere appreciation for the professionalism of the UAE’s defence, security, and civil protection authorities. Their proactive preparedness, close coordination, and effective use of alert systems have been essential in safeguarding the public and protecting critical infrastructure, while maintaining a sense of confidence and tranquillity despite heightened vigilance.

Our appreciation also extends to the UAE’s aviation, logistics, and hospitality sectors. Their responsiveness and operational resilience ensured continuity of essential services, including travel facilitation, accommodation, and clear communication to residents and visitors, particularly those affected by disruptions. Equally, we recognise the solidarity and composure demonstrated by the people of the United Arab Emirates. The Maltese community, alongside other European nationals, has experienced firsthand the sense of collective responsibility, mutual support, and social cohesion that define Emirati society in times of uncertainty.

Malta’s leadership has remained in close and constructive contact with its UAE counterparts. The Prime Minister of Malta spoke with His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, while the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Tourism, Dr Ian Borg, held several discussions with His Highness Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan. These exchanges focused on the evolving regional situation, the safety and welfare of Maltese and European nationals, and the importance of continued coordination. Particular appreciation was expressed for the UAE’s swift assistance, which enabled the efficient organisation of a relief flight to Malta.

At the multilateral level, Malta has also acted decisively. Together with European Union Member States, Malta co-sponsored the GCC-led resolution adopted by the United Nations Security Council on 11 March 2026, condemning Iran’s attacks. Malta also supported the decision adopted at the 36th extraordinary session of the International Maritime Organisation, condemning threats to vessels, which endanger seafarers, the marine environment, and global maritime security, particularly at this time, in the Strait of Hormuz.

These developments reflect a unified international position: attacks on sovereign states and threats to maritime security are unacceptable. The Government of Malta unequivocally condemns the attacks carried out by the Islamic Republic of Iran against the United Arab Emirates and other countries in the region. Malta stands firmly for multilateralism, dialogue, and diplomacy. There can be no military solution—only de-escalation, respect for international law, and sustained engagement can ensure lasting stability.

The Embassy has also been contacted by a number of Maltese businesses as well as professionals working in the UAE, who continue to operate quietly but uninterrupted. Many Maltese residents have chosen to remain in the UAE. Understandably, the fundamentals for the expansion of commercial relations stand on certainty, security and stability. In the last six years, Malta and the UAE have more than doubled their commercial interaction resulting in over 875 million Euros in exports and imports of goods, services and investments between the two countries. At this time, while a degree of caution is both prudent and necessary, there is also confidence in the resilience of the UAE’s operating environment, encouraging the Maltese business community to remain measured, vigilant, and constructively engaged as the situation evolves.

Looking ahead, it is essential that the international community garners the strength of this unity as one of the principle building blocks for continued future cooperation. Malta remains committed to working with the UAE, European partners, and the wider international community to uphold the rules-based international order and promote peace, security and prosperity for the region and the global community.