Pakistan invited greater investment from the United Arab Emirates to strengthen bilateral trade and support economic growth, Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif stated during a meeting with UAE Ambassador Salem Mohammed Salem Al Bawab Al Zaabi on December 23, Business Recorder reported on December 24.

The discussions focused on Islamabad's strategic push to attract Persian Gulf Arab capital amid mounting fiscal pressures and trade deficits.

Sharif highlighted opportunities in energy, minerals, information technology, railways and aviation, urging Abu Dhabi to expand its commercial footprint in Pakistan. The prime minister welcomed the UAE's longstanding support including humanitarian aid and development projects, expressing anticipation for President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan's forthcoming visit.

Expanding UAE investment in energy, minerals, IT, railways and aviation could help Pakistan stabilise public finances, modernise infrastructure and stimulate industrial output whilst reinforcing long-standing economic and diplomatic ties.

Ambassador Al Zaabi conveyed the UAE leadership's "strong commitment" to deepening collaboration and pledged to explore mutually beneficial investment and trade opportunities.

Pakistan's outreach comes amid mounting economic pressures including rising debt servicing and chronic trade deficits. Strengthening investment flows from the Persian Gulf could provide crucial capital for infrastructure projects and industrial development whilst consolidating Islamabad's regional economic partnerships.

Bilateral trade between Pakistan and the UAE has steadily grown over the past decade, with energy imports, transport services and IT collaborations forming the backbone of economic engagement.

The prime minister's call for expanded investment signals Islamabad's intent to leverage Persian Gulf capital to stabilise public finances and boost industrial output, particularly in sectors critical for export growth.