UAE gives away 'Order of Zayed II' award to Pakistan ambassador

The United Arab Emirates has awarded the prestigious First-Class Order of Zayed II to Pakistan’s Ambassador to the UAE, Faisal Niaz Tirmizi, in recognition of his outstanding diplomatic efforts to strengthen bilateral ties between the two nations, the Pakistan Embassy in Abu Dhabi announced on Thursday.

Pakistan and the UAE share a deep-rooted and enduring relationship, marked by close cooperation in trade, defense, and labor mobility. The UAE is home to over 1.7 million Pakistanis—forming the second-largest Pakistani expatriate community in the Gulf—whose remittances play a crucial role in supporting Pakistan’s economy.

The award was presented to Ambassador Tirmizi by His Excellency Khalifa Shaheen Al Marar, Minister of State at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, during a ceremony in Abu Dhabi. The embassy commended the ambassador’s "dedicated efforts in further deepening the historic and brotherly relations between the two nations."

In response, Ambassador Tirmizi expressed deep gratitude, saying he was “overwhelmingly delighted and deeply humbled to receive this prestigious honor.” He extended heartfelt thanks to the UAE leadership, government, and people for their continued support throughout his tenure.

“This recognition is not mine alone,” he added. “I am profoundly grateful to my dedicated team at the Embassy of Pakistan in Abu Dhabi, the Consulate General of Pakistan in Dubai, and our vibrant Pakistani community across the Emirates. Their commitment and cooperation have been central to advancing Pakistan–UAE relations.”

The Order of Zayed II is among the UAE’s highest civilian honors, named after the country’s founding father, Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan. It is awarded by the President of the UAE to heads of state, senior diplomats, and distinguished individuals for their significant contributions to strengthening ties with the Emirates or promoting international cooperation.

The decoration includes a gold medal and ribbon featuring the image of Sheikh Zayed, symbolizing friendship, service, and mutual respect between nations.