H.H. Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan
CABINET mEMBER, Minister OF FOREIGN aFFAIRS & International Cooperation
UNITED ARAB EMIRATES
His Highness Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan was appointed Minister of Foreign Affairs of the United Arab Emirates on the 9th of February, 2006. The ministry’s role focuses on maintaining clear political positions that support the UAE’s relationships with its regional and international partners while promoting the UAE as a regional leader in different fields. Also, as foreign minister, he focuses on establishing specialized diplomatic capabilities and encouraging political talents to address international concerns and provide distinct consular and other services in looking after UAE nationals and the issues they may face during their travels.
He is also a member of the UAE’s National Security Council, Deputy Chairman of the UAE’s Permanent Committee on Borders, Chairman of the board of trustees of Emirates Diplomatic Academy, Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Emirates Foundation for Youth Development, Deputy
Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Abu Dhabi Fund for Development (ADFD) and Board Member of the National Defense College, and Chairman of the Education and Human Resources Council.
He represents the UAE at Arab and international conferences and meetings. He launched important international forums like Sir Bani Yas Forum and Global Forum on Relationships between the Arab World, Latin America and the Caribbean.
He guided a rapid expansion of diplomatic links with countries in Latin America, South Pacific, sub-Saharan Africa and East Asia.
Sheikh Abdullah holds a degree in Political Science from UAE University. He was appointed Minister of Information and Culture in 1997, a post that he held until 2006. He served as Chairman of Emirates Media Incorporated, Chairman of UAE Football Association (1993 – 2001), and as the Under Secretary of the Ministry of Information and Culture from 1995 to 1997.
He was born in Abu Dhabi on the 30th of April, 1972; an avid reader, a student of history, a keen sportsman particularly interested in scuba diving, football and cycling. He also enjoys classical music.
He is married to Her Highness Sheikha Alyazia bint Saif Al Nahyan and has five children: Fatima, Mohammad, Zayed, Saif and Theyab.