The Israeli president says he will visit the UAE next week

 JERUSALEM (Reuters) - Israeli President Isaac Herzog's office said on Tuesday he would travel to the United Arab Emirates on Jan. 30-31 in a bid to bolster Gulf ties at a time of rising regional tension as world powers try to revive a nuclear deal with Iran.

 "We have an opportunity to make history by making the first visit by an Israeli president to the United Arab Emirates," Herzog added in a statement. This important visit comes at a time when the two countries are busy laying the foundations for a new common future.

 The presidency in Israel is a largely ceremonial position. Prime Minister Naftali Bennett visited the UAE in December.