'Marhaba, B’ruchim Haba’im, Welcome': first UAE ambassador to Israel makes Twitter debut

UAE is set to establish an embassy in Tel Aviv after Cabinet approval

Mohamed Al Khaja is the UAE's first ambassador to Israel. Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Co-operation

The UAE's first ambassador to Israel launched his official Twitter account on Thursday with words of welcome.

Mohamed Al Khaja, 40, said he was delighted to launch the account, which already has more than 7,000 followers, sharing the same message in Arabic, English and Hebrew.

"I look forward to strengthening ties between Emiratis and Israelis by fostering peace, understanding and prosperity among our people and across the region," Mr Al Khaja said.

"Marhaba, B’ruchim Haba’im, Welcome!"

The seasoned diplomat was sworn in to his new role by Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid, Vice President and Ruler of Dubai this week.

Born in Abu Dhabi, he served as chief of staff to the Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Co-operation in 2010 and held various other roles in the ministry and in business.

Mr Al Khaja's place of work will soon be ready after the UAE Cabinet last month approved the establishment of an embassy in Tel Aviv.

New Israeli ambassador to the UAE, Eitan Na'eh replied to his counterpart's welcoming words, saying Israel is waiting for his arrival.

"Looking forward to us working together to make good on all the beautiful programmes and plans to further co-operation in all fields," he wrote on Twitter.

Israel and the UAE agreed to normalise relations in August 2020, sparking other Arab nations to follow suit. It signed the Abraham Accord in September of that year. Bahrain, Sudan and Morocco have since established ties.