The United Arab Emirates government denied reports that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu made a secret visit to the country [1].

This denial comes amid heightened tensions between Iran and the UAE, where reports of clandestine diplomatic or military coordination could signal a shift in regional security alignments.

Official statements from the UAE refuted claims that the prime minister visited Abu Dhabi [1], [2]. The government also denied reports that it had received an Israeli military delegation [1], [3]. These reports surfaced on May 14 and 15, 2026, suggesting that Netanyahu had traveled to the UAE to strengthen ties during the ongoing conflict involving Iran [4], [5].

Some reports suggested that Netanyahu had met with President Al Nahyan during the alleged trip [4]. However, the UAE government said that such reports were untrue [5]. A formal denial statement was issued on May 15, 2026 [6].

The UAE has not provided further details regarding the origin of the reports or the specific nature of the military delegation claims. The government said the information circulating about the visit was incorrect [2].

“The UAE denied reports that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu had made a secret visit to the UAE.”

The UAE's swift denial underscores the delicate balancing act it maintains in the Middle East. By publicly refuting a secret meeting with Israel during a period of friction with Iran, Abu Dhabi aims to prevent the perception of a formal military alliance that could further escalate regional hostilities or provoke Iranian retaliation.