The recent visit of Joseph Aoun, the President of the Republic of Lebanon, to the UAE signifies a pivotal moment in enhancing the bilateral relations between the two nations. The UAE has reaffirmed its steadfast support for Lebanon’s unity, sovereignty, and efforts toward stability and development.

The UAE’s commitment to strengthening ties with Lebanon has a long history, rooted in the vision of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan. In 1974, he directed funding of US$150 million for the Litani River Project in Lebanon. Following the conclusion of the Lebanese civil war, the UAE initiated various initiatives aimed at peacebuilding, reconstruction, and long-term stability, financing numerous infrastructure, education, and healthcare projects.

In 2000, after the liberation of southern Lebanon, the UAE continued its support by launching a landmine clearance project. This initiative, announced on October 25, 2001, was conducted in collaboration with the United Nations and the Lebanese government, with a budget of US$50 million.

During Lebanon’s economic crises in the early 2000s, the UAE invested in Lebanese treasury bonds, purchasing US$300 million worth in January 2003, in line with the agreements from the Paris II donor conference.

In the aftermath of the 2006 July War, the UAE was among the first countries to provide assistance. It launched the “UAE Programme for Supporting and Reconstruction of Lebanon” in September 2006, which included delivering urgent humanitarian aid and reconstructing damaged infrastructure, schools, and hospitals.

The UAE also played a crucial role during the COVID-19 pandemic, supplying Lebanon with 12 tonnes of medical supplies and establishing the Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Emirati-Lebanese Hospital Centre for treating COVID-19 patients. Following the Beirut Port explosion, the UAE quickly mobilized aid to support affected communities.

Most recently, in October 2024, under the guidance of President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the UAE initiated the “UAE Stands with Lebanon” campaign, which garnered widespread participation from the UAE’s public and private sectors, demonstrating solidarity with the Lebanese people during challenging times.