In brief
On 1 November 2026, H.H. Sheikh Hamad bin Mohammed Al Sharqi met with Leonid Mikhelson, chairman of Russian energy firm Novatek, at Al Rumailah Palace in Fujairah. The meeting focused on development projects within the Fujairah Oil Industry Zone and future plans to expand the zone’s operational and investment capabilities, reflecting the UAE’s strategy to build strategic partnerships and promote investment in its growing energy sector. Key officials—including members of Fujairah’s Emiri Court and municipal leaders—attended and stressed the importance of deepening cooperation to position Fujairah as a strategic hub for petroleum trade and storage.
On 1 November 2026, the Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Fujairah, H.H. Sheikh Hamad bin Mohammed Al Sharqi, received Leonid Mikhelson, chairman of Russian oil company Novatek, at Al Rumailah Palace. The guests were accompanied by a delegation that toured the Fujairah Oil Industry Zone (FOIZ) and reviewed a number of development projects.
During the meeting, the two sides discussed plans to continue expanding FOIZ and to enhance the zone’s operational and investment capabilities. The discussions were framed as part of a wider effort to keep pace with rapid growth in the energy sector and to strengthen the efficiency of infrastructure and related services.
H.H. Sheikh Hamad underscored the importance of strengthening cooperation with Russia in the energy sector and in related industries. He said the meeting reflected the UAE’s approach to building strategic partnerships, expanding international cooperation, and exchanging expertise.
Other attendees included Mohammed Saeed Al Dhanhani, Director of the Fujairah Emiri Court; Mohammed Al Afkham, Director General of Fujairah Municipality; and Salem Al Afkham, Director of the Fujairah Oil Industry Zone. Their presence emphasized the local government’s commitment to fostering investment and sustainable development.
The meeting reiterated the UAE’s strategy to position Fujairah as a strategic hub for the trade and storage of petroleum products. It also highlighted the role of such cooperation in advancing shared interests and capitalizing on economic opportunities between the UAE and Russia.
