UAE President receives prominent US senator Lindsey Graham

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UAE President receives prominent US senator Lindsey Graham

February 18, 2026

ABU DHABI,— UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan met on Wednesday with prominent U.S. Senator Lindsey Graham, one of the most influential American lawmakers, at Qasr Al Shati in Abu Dhabi, state media reported.

The senator said in a post on X that he also criticized what he described as false narratives circulating about the UAE and its leadership.

Senator Graham wrote on X earlier Wednesday that he had met the UAE president for about 90 minutes. He said the president was in good health and fully engaged during their discussion.

“I met with him today for an hour and a half. Not only is he alive, but he is also well and as sharp as I’ve ever seen him,” Graham wrote. He added that those who choose to criticize MbZ and the UAE for what he described as doing the right thing should be aware of the consequences.

Graham said the meeting was productive and detailed. “Our meeting today was very enjoyable and informative. We discussed the historic moment that is facing the region,” he wrote.

He said he expressed appreciation for the leadership and vision aimed at building an Islamic country that can integrate with the wider world in what he described as a mutually beneficial way, both for the people of the UAE and for visitors and business partners.

Tensions between the UAE and Saudi Arabia have drawn increased attention to Abu Dhabi, as well known Saudi social media figures step up their criticism and accuse the Emirates of playing a role in regional instability.

Commentary circulating online in the kingdom frequently singles out Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan personally.

According to Emirates News Agency the talks focused on the long standing friendship and strategic cooperation between the United Arab Emirates and the United States.

Both sides reviewed their shared commitment to strengthening ties in ways that serve common interests, the UAE said.

Discussions also covered recent developments in the region and issues related to regional security and stability. The two sides examined joint efforts aimed at supporting peace in the Middle East and other areas.

The meeting was attended by Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Chairman of the Presidential Court for Special Affairs, and Sheikh Mohammed bin Hamad bin Tahnoun Al Nahyan, Adviser to the UAE President. Several ministers and senior officials were also present.

Graham, a Republican from South Carolina first elected to the Senate in 2002, is known for his strong foreign policy positions, conservative views on judicial matters, and his close and at times shifting alliance with U.S. President Donald Trump.

(With files from Reuters | WAM)