UAE's cautious approach to Syria's new leadership

Syria's new leader, Ahmad el-Chareh, and the President of the United Arab Emirates, Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, held a phone call on Friday to discuss ways to enhance bilateral relations.

This dialogue comes amid regional diplomatic shifts following the fall of Bashar al-Assad, whom Abu Dhabi had previously supported in normalization efforts.

According to Syria's official news agency Sana, both leaders emphasized the importance of continuous coordination and intensified efforts to support the Syrian people and protect the country’s territorial integrity. They reaffirmed their shared commitment to fostering regional stability and development.

Facing immense challenges in rebuilding after more than thirteen years of war, the new Syrian authorities are working to reassure Arab and Western nations.

 They are particularly seeking support from Gulf countries, including the UAE, to revive the national economy and rebuild devastated infrastructure.

Abu Dhabi's Concerns About Syria's New Leadership

Despite this outreach, the UAE remains cautious toward Syria's new leadership under Ahmad el-Chareh, who emerged from a coalition led by the radical Islamist group Hay'at Tahrir al-Sham (HTS). This coalition overthrew Bashar al-Assad last month. 

Abu Dhabi, known for its zero-tolerance policy on political Islam, is wary of Turkey's growing influence, given its role as a major ally of Syria's new authorities.

The UAE was among the first Arab nations to restore diplomatic relations with Bashar al-Assad's Syria, facilitating his reintegration into the Arab League in 2023. 

This engagement could continue with Syria's new leadership, contingent upon progress in achieving stability and effective governance.