AGP Executive Report

UAE Diplomacy & Regional Security: The UAE joined Saudi Arabia, Egypt and GCC states in sending condolences to Qatar after a Qatari citizen was killed by shrapnel in regional military operations, underscoring continued Gulf efforts to keep tensions from spilling over. Libya Political Unification: US Secretary of State Marco Rubio met Libya’s eastern commander Lt Gen Saddam Haftar in Washington as Washington pushes a framework to unify rival administrations and institutions. Trade & Investment Governance: CPTPP ministers advanced expansion talks and set up a Customs Working Group, while also discussing accession progress involving Costa Rica, Uruguay and preparatory steps with the UAE and other partners. UAE-linked Finance & Tech: Masdar broke ground on a $1.4bn, 1GW wind-plus-storage project in Kazakhstan, reinforcing Abu Dhabi’s push for round-the-clock clean power and AI-enabled energy planning. Cross-border Dispute Watch: SriLankan Airlines was cleared over a disputed UAE payment after investigators traced a cyber compromise to the Dubai-based recipient’s side, not the airline’s systems.

UAE-Qatar Solidarity: The UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs sent condolences to Qatar after a maritime incident killed a Qatari citizen and injured an Arab resident, wishing the injured person a swift recovery. Hormuz Diplomacy & Aviation: After renewed US-Iran strikes, both sides paused attacks while disagreeing on next steps for talks in Doha; amid the uncertainty, flights between Iran and the UAE resumed, with a Tehran-to-Dubai service landing in Dubai and more limited schedules expected. Regional Security Messaging: UAE officials continued to stress Hormuz navigation security and compliance with the US-Iran understanding, as Gulf states weigh how to manage escalation risks. Sudan War Allegations: A major investigation claims the UAE has built a sprawling network supporting Sudan’s RSF, raising new questions about regional meddling and logistics routes. Cyber & Payments: SriLankan Airlines said a UAE-based payment issue was cleared after findings pointed to a cyber compromise on the recipient’s side, not wrongdoing by the airline. UAE Tech Policy: The UAE Cybersecurity Council wrapped up its government-backed start-up accelerator with AWS, CrowdStrike and E&, selecting 23 firms from 157 applications across multiple countries. Business/Finance Watch: Separate coverage highlights Dubai’s role in cross-border finance and payments, alongside wider market moves tied to Hormuz risk and oil price swings.

Gulf Security & Diplomacy: Iran’s renewed drone and missile attacks on Bahrain and Kuwait—after US strikes on Iranian targets—have put the fragile US-Iran ceasefire and Strait of Hormuz talks under fresh strain, with Iran warning negotiations could face a “complete halt” and the US saying technical talks continue and vessels can move freely while talks resume in Qatar. Abu Dhabi’s Regional Posture: UAE officials and GCC partners are signaling a tougher, unified line on Iran while pushing for freedom of navigation through Hormuz, as regional leaders weigh how to manage escalation without derailing diplomacy. Regional Condolences: The UAE expressed solidarity with Saudi Arabia and sent condolences over a Saudi Aramco helicopter crash that killed 14. Business & Governance Watch: HDFC Bank said a legal review found no documentary or interview support for claims by former director Atanu Chakraborty, underscoring scrutiny of governance processes. Aviation Links: United Nigeria Airlines was admitted as a full member of AFRAA, boosting Nigeria’s aviation integration with regional and international partners including the UAE.

UAE-US Economic Diplomacy: UAE Minister of State Saeed Al Hajeri led talks in Washington with US Commerce, Treasury, USTR and State Department officials, touting a deepening economic partnership worth over $40bn in 2025 trade and highlighting UAE investment impact across AI, advanced manufacturing, finance and energy. Gulf Security: Iran’s Revolutionary Guard launched drone and missile attacks on Bahrain and Kuwait after US strikes, warning of a “complete halt” to war-ending talks; the UAE condemned the attacks as a violation of sovereignty and a threat to regional stability. Strait of Hormuz Tensions: The renewed fighting adds pressure to efforts to reopen Hormuz transits, with the US planning expanded routes off Oman and Iran insisting on exclusive control. Regional Politics: Trump renewed calls for Syria to confront Hezbollah instead of Israel, triggering fresh alarm in Lebanon and Israel. Trade & Connectivity: UAE Trade Days talks in Panama focused on boosting bilateral trade, investment and supply-chain resilience. Abu Dhabi Urban Policy: Aldar and Abu Dhabi’s Department of Community Development will develop Yas Community Park and expand the Nabdh community hub model across emirate projects.

US-Iran Escalation: The US military says it struck 10 Iranian targets after a drone attack on the Panama-flagged tanker Kiku near the Strait of Hormuz, as Trump warned the ceasefire could collapse and Iran “will no longer exist” if violations continue. Regional Condemnations: Bahrain, the UAE, Qatar and Kuwait condemned the alleged Iranian drone attacks on Bahrain, calling them a threat to sovereignty and Gulf stability. Hormuz Pressure Point: A US-backed plan to expand a route near Oman for inbound and outbound traffic is set to raise tensions in the strait, where shipping disruptions remain a key political and economic risk for the UAE and wider region. UAE Defense Outlook: Separate reporting says the UAE is evaluating India’s BrahMos and Akashteer systems to strengthen deterrence and air-defense resilience amid West Asia’s shift toward drones and proxy tactics. UAE Economy/Finance: Abu Dhabi-linked Cube Highways kicked off IPO roadshows aiming for an October launch, targeting ₹5,000 crore.

Hormuz Flashpoint: Iran’s drone attack on Bahrain and a separate strike on a ship in the Strait of Hormuz followed US airstrikes, renewing fears that diplomacy is outpacing events at sea. GCC & UAE Condemnation: The GCC backed Bahrain, while the UAE and Kuwait also condemned the attacks as threats to regional security. Regional Diplomacy: Egypt, Bahrain and the UAE urged all sides to safeguard navigation and keep US-Iran talks moving. Lebanon Support: UAE officials reiterated support for Lebanon’s sovereignty amid a US-brokered Lebanon-Israel framework, with Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed stressing political, economic and social assistance. Abu Dhabi Social Policy: The Family Care Authority highlighted its Halfway Houses rehabilitation model, saying about 70% of graduates secure jobs. Humanitarian Aid: The UAE Aid Agency pledged $10m for Venezuela after twin earthquakes, focusing on food and medical relief. Visa & Mobility: The UAE expanded visa-on-arrival eligibility for more travellers, including updated rules for Indians and Filipinos.

UAE Mediation: The UAE says it helped Russia and Ukraine exchange another 320 prisoners (160 each), bringing UAE-mediated swaps to 7,791 and marking 25 rounds of talks since the war began. Humanitarian Response: Under President Mohamed bin Zayed’s directives, the UAE Aid Agency has allocated $10m for Venezuela earthquake relief, aiming to speed early recovery with food, medical supplies and shelter support. Gulf Security & Diplomacy: UAE FM Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed held a call with Iran’s Abbas Araghchi, stressing full compliance with the US-Iran interim agreement and insisting on protection of maritime corridors and freedom of navigation through the Strait of Hormuz. Regional Fallout: The US carried out strikes on Iran after an attack on a commercial ship in the Strait of Hormuz, putting pressure on the fragile de-escalation effort. Dubai Housing Policy: Dubai Land Department launched its “Flexi Rent” initiative, offering monthly, quarterly and semi-annual payment options with partner incentives to improve rental flexibility. Legal & Governance: HDFC Bank says external law firms found no basis for former chairman Atanu Chakraborty’s resignation claims, clearing the bank of governance doubts raised in his exit. Crime & Consular Watch: A British TikTok influencer, Brooke George, remains in custody in Dubai facing possible execution by firing squad over a fatal stabbing case, with UK officials saying they are supporting her family and engaging UAE authorities.

UAE-Iran Diplomacy: Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed spoke by phone with Iran’s foreign minister Abbas Araghchi, stressing full compliance with the US-Iran interim deal, respect for sovereignty, and uninterrupted navigation through the Strait of Hormuz. Strait of Hormuz Tensions: US Secretary of State Marco Rubio told Gulf allies the waterway will be “free, unconditional, and unrestricted,” while a Singapore-flagged ship reported minor damage after a projectile near Hormuz and UAE authorities later urged Dubai residents to disregard a missile alert they said was likely a mistake. Energy Security: Adnoc has started a bid process for a new Fujairah LNG facility designed to reduce exposure to any future Strait disruption. Digital Government & Trade Compliance: The UAE Ministry of Finance launched the electronic invoicing pilot phase, with a phased rollout starting July 1 and deadlines for accredited service providers ahead of mandatory implementation. Abu Dhabi Health Tech: Abu Dhabi Biobank and BioTwin announced a partnership to expand Human Virtual Twin technology for early detection and multi-cancer screening, alongside other DoH-linked genomics moves. Sports & Culture: A UAE-supported Anse Royale indoor sports complex foundation stone was laid in Seychelles, while Abu Dhabi also unveiled major performing-arts plans tied to its cultural vision.

UAE Visa Policy: The UAE Embassy in Nairobi says Kenyan ordinary passport holders can get visa-on-arrival from June 25, 2026, including accompanying family members with valid US/EU/UK residence permits and spouses holding permits from Australia, Japan, Singapore, South Korea, Canada or New Zealand—cutting pre-departure paperwork. Strait of Hormuz Security: The UN’s maritime evacuation plan for ships using the Strait of Hormuz was paused after a cargo vessel was hit by a projectile near Oman; the IMO said it will hold the effort until safety guarantees are confirmed, amid Iran threats over route control. US-Iran Diplomacy: US Vice President JD Vance says Washington and Iran agreed to a direct military communication channel involving IRGC officials in Doha, while Secretary of State Marco Rubio wrapped up a Gulf tour urging allies that their security concerns will be reflected in any Iran talks. Abu Dhabi Economic Governance: The Economic Integration Committee met in Abu Dhabi to review market price monitoring and oversight, and to strengthen coordination between federal and local authorities on governance of high-value transactions, including support for national firms expanding into intellectual property activities. Transport & Connectivity: Etihad Rail says demand is strong for the UAE’s passenger rail network ahead of Abu Dhabi–Fujairah services starting June 30, with introductory fares from AED 55 and ticketing now open via its app and website. Abu Dhabi Culture: Abu Dhabi launched Dar al Funoon near Saadiyat, a performing-arts complex due to open in 2030 with multiple venues and year-round programming.

UAE-US-Iran Diplomacy: US Secretary of State Marco Rubio wrapped up a Gulf tour in Bahrain, telling allies any Iran deal must protect Gulf security and stressing the Strait of Hormuz is an international waterway where no country should charge tolls—while Oman’s newly announced shipping corridor drew fresh debate as Iran’s IRGC warned vessels to use Tehran-approved routes. Energy Markets: With Hormuz traffic recovering, oil prices slid back toward pre-war levels, even as the dispute over routes, fees, and control remains a live risk for regional stability and shipping. Abu Dhabi Transport: Etihad Rail’s Abu Dhabi–Fujairah passenger services are set to begin June 30, with the Mohammed Bin Zayed City Station positioned as a key first gateway for seamless rail-to-city mobility. Cultural Push: Abu Dhabi’s Dar Al Funoon performing arts centre—Frank Gehry-designed—targets a 2030 opening on Saadiyat, aiming to expand the emirate’s live arts ecosystem. Governance & Compliance: The UAE Central Bank fined a foreign bank about $5.4mn for AML failures, underscoring tighter enforcement after upgrades to the country’s anti-money laundering framework. Regional Energy Politics: Reuters reports Iraq has considered leaving OPEC if quotas aren’t raised, highlighting how Hormuz disruption and fiscal strain are reshaping cartel dynamics.

US-Iran Diplomacy: US Secretary of State Marco Rubio wrapped a Gulf tour that began in Abu Dhabi, telling UAE and Kuwait leaders Washington “won’t do anything” to undermine Gulf security as a proposed US-Iran deal faces doubts over sanctions relief and Strait of Hormuz navigation. Hormuz & Shipping: Rubio’s remarks came alongside renewed focus on freedom of navigation, with Oman and Iran reiterating commitments to safe passage and UAE ports expecting gradual relief for trade and logistics as stability returns. Energy Markets: Oil prices slid toward pre-war levels as Hormuz reopened and tanker traffic increased, easing supply fears and putting pressure on regional fuel costs. Abu Dhabi Health & Innovation: The Department of Health – Abu Dhabi signed a partnership with Biocom California to connect life-science ecosystems and help innovators test and scale in the UAE’s HELM cluster. Abu Dhabi Energy Deal: The Supreme Council for Financial and Economic Affairs awarded ADNOC and partners the Bab Gas Cap concession, targeting major gas output to strengthen UAE gas self-sufficiency. Cultural Diplomacy: Louvre Abu Dhabi unveiled its 2026-2027 programme, spanning maritime trade history, heritage protection and GCC-India contemporary art.

UAE-US Security Talks: President Mohamed bin Zayed met US Secretary of State Marco Rubio in Abu Dhabi, with both sides stressing security, stability and coordination as Rubio pushes Gulf reassurance amid the US-Iran MoU and ongoing nuclear and Strait of Hormuz disputes. Regional Diplomacy: Separate reporting says the US and Iran are moving into a structured process for de-escalation, while the UN nuclear watchdog chief says IAEA inspections of Iran enrichment sites are expected to resume despite Tehran and Washington disagreeing publicly on timing. Financial Oversight: The Central Bank of the UAE fined a foreign bank’s UAE branch AED20m over repeated anti-money laundering, counter-terror and sanctions failures, and fined the compliance head personally. Public Safety: Dubai Police reported a truck collision near Global Village caused by not keeping a safe distance, injuring one person and reiterating a Dhs400 fine under federal traffic rules. Energy & Trade: Brent slipped below $74 as Hormuz traffic gradually recovers and UAE oil exports reportedly rebounded to about 85% of pre-war levels. Civil Society: The Ministry of Community Empowerment launched an “Institutional Support Framework” to strengthen non-profits’ governance and sustainability.

U.S.-Iran Diplomacy and Hormuz Fees: U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio arrived in Abu Dhabi to reassure Gulf allies, stressing that no country can charge tolls or fees on the Strait of Hormuz, calling it an international waterway under existing law, while the U.S. and Iran continue a 60-day negotiation push with disputes still swirling over inspections and transit arrangements. UAE Leadership and Regional Security: President Sheikh Mohamed received an Abu Dhabi Investment Authority delegation marking ADIA’s 50th anniversary, praising its role in UAE economic diversification, as UAE officials also kept close coordination on regional developments amid the wider U.S.-Iran track. Child Safety and Social Media: The UAE’s under-15 social media ban continues to draw attention, with reporting highlighting how families and clinicians say screen-time limits can reduce stress and health harms for children. Public Service and Identity Affairs: In Dubai, the GDRFA’s director general marked Public Service Day, linking government work to national responsibility and the UAE’s push to localise strategic industries and build Emirati talent. UAE Real Estate Flexibility: Dubai Land Department launched “Easy Lease,” offering more flexible rental payment options to support housing stability and market accessibility. Space Training: UAE astronauts Sultan Al Neyadi and Hazza Al Mansouri completed NASA geology training in New Mexico as the space programme prepares for future Moon missions.

UAE-Qatar Solidarity: UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed called Qatar’s Emir Sheikh Tamim to convey condolences and support after the Ras Laffan factory incident, underscoring close bilateral ties. UAE Finance & Markets: The Ministry of Finance opened subscriptions for the UAE’s first Sovereign Retail T-Sukuk Programme (Dh50m, June 24-30; 2-year tenor; 4.30% profit; minimum Dh1,000 via approved digital channels). UAE-India Defence Talks: Reuters reports India is in early talks with the UAE to sell BrahMos and potentially Akashteer air defence systems, as Gulf procurement accelerates amid regional threats. Hormuz Shipping & Regional Diplomacy: Oman and Iran agreed to continue talks on managing navigation in the Strait of Hormuz, while India said 11 India-bound ships have transited since the US-Iran MoU. UAE Child Protection Policy: UAE moves to restrict social media access for under-15s with stricter age checks, adding another layer to child online safety rules. Abu Dhabi Media Strategy: Abdulla bin Mohammed bin Butti Al Hamed (NMA) said a cohesive national narrative is key to shaping investor perceptions and global capital flows. Regional Security Appointments: Nabil Fahmy was appointed Arab League Secretary-General, as Gulf states push for a more proactive regional role.

U.S.-Iran Talks & Strait of Hormuz: Vice President JD Vance says the negotiations in Switzerland created a “good foundation” for a final deal, with Iran reportedly agreeing to allow IAEA nuclear inspections and to keep the Strait of Hormuz open—while the U.S. Treasury issued a 60-day general license easing sanctions on Iranian oil. UAE Foreign Policy: US Secretary of State Marco Rubio is set to visit the UAE, Kuwait and Bahrain to discuss the interim Iran framework and secure “full and free” transit through the Strait of Hormuz. Abu Dhabi Health & Innovation: DoH-Abu Dhabi and Sanofi signed an MoU to explore a Vaccine Innovation Centre, linking AI-enabled discovery, mRNA work, clinical development and manufacturing. Abu Dhabi Governance & Finance: The Federal Tax Authority is rolling out a more proactive, AI-driven VAT refund model for UAE nationals building new homes. Emiratisation Deadline: MoHRE reaffirmed 30 June as the final deadline for private firms to meet 2026 Emiratisation targets. Sharjah Regulation: Sharjah issued a new law tightening licensing, registration and operational rules for drone activity. Tourism Recovery Watch: UAE hospitality leaders say travel demand is rebounding as UK advisories ease, though full recovery is expected later this year.

UAE-India Defence Talks: Reuters reports Abu Dhabi is in early talks with India to buy the supersonic BrahMos cruise missile and the Akashteer air-defence system, as Gulf security needs rise and protection of the Strait of Hormuz stays a priority. Regional Security Diplomacy: US Vice President JD Vance says Iran has agreed to let IAEA inspectors return, while talks in Switzerland also set a 60-day roadmap and deconfliction steps aimed at easing tensions across the region. Qatar Energy Shock: A blast at Qatar’s Ras Laffan gas export facility killed at least 13 workers (including Indians) and injured dozens, with QatarEnergy calling it an industrial accident tied to restart work after wartime damage. Abu Dhabi Economic Governance: Sheikh Tahnoon bin Zayed chaired an Investment Affairs Council meeting reviewing Abu Dhabi’s investment outlook and the Q1 performance of ADIA, Mubadala, L’IMAD and ADNOC. Humanitarian Response: Dubai Humanitarian carried out a third Ebola-response airlift to the DRC, moving hygiene kits, tents and burial supplies from Dubai to Entebbe. Talent & Regulation: flydubai opened applications for an Emirati flight dispatcher training programme; meanwhile, MoHRE set a 30 June Emiratisation deadline for the private sector.