Abu Dhabi:The United Arab Emirates and Kuwait began a week-long celebration on Thursday, under the theme “UAE and Kuwait ... Brothers Forever”, highlighting longstanding ties between the two Gulf countries across political, social and cultural spheres.
The initiative was launched under the direction of UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al-Nahyan on November 21, 2025. It focuses on the historical relationship between the two countries and their shared regional outlook.
At the time of the launch, Sheikh Mohamed said, “Our relations with Kuwait are those of brotherhood, love and kinship. They have been a support before and after the union (of the Arab Emirates), and their solidarity continues to this day,” describing the initiative as “a duty".
Kuwait formally welcomed the program. In a statement, the Amiri Diwan said the initiative “reflects the depth of historical brotherly ties that have forged a solid Gulf unity through different milestones”.
Kuwait’s Ambassador to the UAE, Jamal Al-Ghunaim, said the program was “a sincere recognition from our Emirati brothers of a long history of cooperation and solidarity". He said the relationship “goes beyond diplomacy, forming a deep brotherly partnership across political, economic and cultural fields that has strengthened Gulf and Arab unity”.
“Celebrating this occasion reflects the UAE leadership’s dedication to loyalty and brotherhood and demonstrates Kuwait’s place in the hearts of the Emirati people”, he said, adding that Kuwait views the initiative with pride and expects continued cooperation.
Kuwaiti Consul General in Dubai and the Northern Emirates Khaled Al-Zaabi said the celebration was “a genuine message of love that reflects the authenticity of social and human relations between our peoples”.
He said the initiative shows that the relationship “extends beyond formal frameworks into daily life and sincere human interactions”, and strengthens ties between both societies.
Media figures in the UAE also commented on the initiative. Ahmed Al-Alawi, editor-in-chief of Al-Ain News, said it was “the culmination of a long path of rapprochement, showing a sustainable brotherhood reinforced by trust and shared history”.
He said the Iraqi invasion of Kuwait in 1990 was a defining moment that strengthened relations, with UAE support turning ties into a “critical partnership”.
Dr Fadheela Almaeeni, president of the UAE Journalists Association, said the initiative was “a confirmation of the deep historical and human bonds that connect our nations and peoples”. She said both countries have stood by each other in times of stability and crisis.
“This celebration offers a cultural and social opportunity to educate new generations about our shared history and values, including solidarity, mutual respect and cooperation”, she said.
Relations between the UAE and Kuwait date back more than 60 years, beginning with Kuwaiti educational and medical missions in the Emirates during the 1950s and 1960s and early support for television broadcasting. Kuwait was among the first countries to establish diplomatic relations with the UAE after its formation in 1971. Cooperation has since expanded through trade, investment and humanitarian efforts.
As part of the week-long program, the UAE will host the UAE-Kuwait Media Forum at the Museum of the Future in Dubai and the UAE-Kuwait Economic Forum at the Burj Al-Arab. Additional events and public celebrations are planned to mark the relationship. Visitors arriving at Kuwait International Airport on flights from the UAE are also receiving a special welcome as part of a campaign launched by the Ministry of Interior and the Public Authority for Civil Aviation.