UAE honors Pakistan’s ambassador with top civilian award

The United Arab Emirates has conferred one of its highest civilian honors, the First-Class Order of Zayed II, on Pakistan’s Ambassador to the UAE, Faisal Niaz Tirmizi, in recognition of his contributions to strengthening bilateral relations between the two countries.

Tirmizi, who has served as Pakistan’s envoy to the UAE since 2022, said he was “deeply humbled” by the recognition. “This honor belongs to my entire team at the Embassy and Consulate, as well as the Pakistani community across the Emirates,” he said in a statement.

The award was presented to Tirmizi by Khalifa Shaheen Al Marar, Minister of State at the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs, on behalf of President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan during a ceremony in Abu Dhabi on Thursday.

Al Marar conveyed greetings from President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed and Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, praising Tirmizi’s efforts to deepen ties between the two nations and expand cooperation in trade, investment, and cultural exchange.

Tirmizi also conveyed greetings from Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, expressing Pakistan’s appreciation for the UAE’s continued support and partnership.

The UAE hosts one of the largest Pakistani expatriate populations in the world — more than 1.6 million workers — whose remittances are a vital source of foreign exchange for Pakistan. The two countries maintain close economic and political ties, with the UAE ranking among Pakistan’s top trading partners and investors.

The Order of Zayed II is among the UAE’s most prestigious decorations, awarded to foreign dignitaries and ambassadors for exceptional service in fostering international cooperation and friendship.