Russian President Vladimir Putin and United Arab Emirates President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan held official talks on Thursday at the Kremlin in Moscow, marking the beginning of the Emirati leader’s official visit to Russia.

The UAE President arrived earlier in the day, accompanied by a high-level delegation including ministers and senior advisors. The duration of the visit has not been disclosed.

Upon arrival, Sheikh Mohamed was welcomed by senior Russian officials, including First Deputy Prime Minister Denis Manturov and Deputy Foreign Minister Sergey Vershinin, according to Russia’s Sputnik news agency.

The Kremlin press office confirmed on Wednesday that the two leaders would meet for discussions focusing on bilateral cooperation as well as regional and international developments.

This marks Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed’s fifth official visit to Russia since assuming the presidency. He previously visited in October 2022, June 2023, and twice in October 2024.