Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian met Abu Dhabi Crown Prince Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan on the sidelines of the 18th BRICS Summit in New Delhi on 12 September 2026. The meeting was significant as it marked a high-level engagement between Iran and the UAE amid the ongoing conflict in West Asia and strained bilateral relations. The discussions focused on regional and international developments, particularly the need to reduce tensions, encourage diplomatic dialogue and maintain peace and stability in the region. Both sides highlighted the importance of de-escalation to prevent further conflict and protect civilians from the impact of hostilities. The meeting took place after the UAE suspended trade and financial dealings with Iran in August 2026, adding to the challenges in their bilateral relationship. Against this backdrop, the leaders’ interaction provided an opportunity to discuss regional concerns and the role of diplomacy in addressing them. The discussions also aligned with the broader message of the BRICS joint declaration, which called for restraint, the protection of civilians and civilian infrastructure, and diplomatic efforts to ease tensions in West Asia. The meeting highlighted the importance of dialogue and cooperation in addressing regional challenges and promoting stability.