The relationship between the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and the US has been steadily strengthening over the years. Recently, an event that further strengthened these relations has taken place, when outgoing US Ambassador Martina Strong was awarded the “Order of Zayed II – First Class” by the UAE government. This honor is the second highest award given by the United Arab Emirates to foreign diplomats, which is given only for distinguished and important contributions
Martina Strong: An impressive diplomatic journey
Martina Strong took over as the US Ambassador to the UAE in 2023. Prior to this, she played important diplomatic roles in countries like Saudi Arabia, Bulgaria and Iraq. She has also been posted in Basra (Iraq) as an advisor to the US Army. Her diplomatic services were not limited to political boundaries, but she has also done remarkable work on cultural and business fronts.
During her tenure in the UAE, she took the strategic cooperation between the US and the UAE to a new level. Her efforts gave a new direction to cooperation between the two countries in areas such as security, trade, energy, climate change, education and technology
Coordination of the historic presidential visit
A major achievement of Martina Strong’s tenure was the historic visit of the US President to the UAE in May 2025. This visit not only proved to strengthen the political relations between the two countries, but also sent a positive signal for regional stability and economic partnership. The efficiency with which Ambassador Strong successfully coordinated this visit reflects the authenticity of her leadership.
Significance of the Order of Zayed II
The “Order of Zayed II” given by the Government of the United Arab Emirates is a symbol of the gratitude of the nation that it shows to its major international partners. This honor is usually given to ambassadors who have taken bilateral relations to new heights. The highest honor, the “Order of Zayed”, is usually given to heads of state. This year, this honor was also given to US President Donald Trump, which is a proof of the level to which the relationship between the US and the UAE has deepened.
Why is this honor important?
This honor to Ambassador Strong is not just a formality, but it is a confirmation of trust, respect and shared interests between the two countries. This award is an indication that the US and the UAE are not only diplomatic partners, but also strategic allies at the global level.
This honor will inspire more investment, technical cooperation, and cultural exchange between the two countries in the coming times. Also, it will inspire other diplomats to see how an ambassador can leave a deep and lasting impact even in his limited tenure.
Conclusion
The “Order of Zayed II” award received by Martina Strong is not only a recognition of her personal contribution, but it also underlines the role of the US and the UAE in global diplomatic relations. This honor will further deepen the relations between the two countries in the coming times and will further strengthen their joint role on the global stage.
