As the world focuses on the US retreat from Afghanistan and Iran's nuclear situation, Turkey and the United Arab Emirates have been quietly making decisions that could profoundly alter the Middle East.

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and Emirati Crown Prince Mohammed bin Zayed, often referred to by his initials MBZ, discussed bilateral cooperation and regional stability during a phone call in late August, what may be an unprecedented exchange. On Twitter, Emirati Presidential Diplomatic Advisor Anwar Gargash stated that the discussion was positive and friendly, and was part of a larger effort to build bridges. Gargash later added that the Emiratis are actively working to avoid conflicts with Turkey and Iran and that they welcome changes in Ankara’s foreign policy — especially on Egypt and the Muslim Brotherhood.

The public airing of the call came after months of smaller meetings. Steps towards reconciliation began in January after the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) restored its relations with Qatar, paving the way for the UAE to renew relations with Doha’s biggest ally — Ankara. Following the summit, MBZ traveled to Cairo to meet with Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi, who also encouraged him to renew relations with Turkey. And Emirati National Security Advisor Sheikh Tahnoun bin Zayed al Nahyan visited Erdogan on Aug. 18 — the highest-level public visit by an Emirati official to Turkey in years. Erdogan stated the two countries are improving relations and that reconciliation could lead to significant Emirati investment in Turkey.

On the surface, the rapprochement opens the door for increased economic cooperation that Turkey, in particular, needs desperately on the heels of the COVID-19 pandemic. Later in August, Abu Dhabi’s second most valuable company, International Holding Co., announced that it is seeking investment opportunities in Turkey’s healthcare and industrial sectors.