Context: The President of the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan (MBZ), concluded an official visit to New Delhi, reaffirming the depth and momentum of India–UAE relations. The visit reflects the growing convergence of strategic, economic, and technological interests between the two countries.
Key Outcomes of the Visit
1. Expanding Economic Engagement
Both leaders agreed to double bilateral trade to USD 200 billion by 2032, signalling confidence in the long-term economic partnership. This builds upon the success of the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) operational since 2022.
2. Energy Security and LNG Cooperation
- HPCL and ADNOC Gas signed a 10-year LNG supply agreement to import 0.5 MMTPA from 2028, strengthening India’s gas-based energy transition.
- The UAE remains a critical partner in India’s hydrocarbon security.
3. Industrial and Infrastructure Investment
The UAE committed to large-scale investments in the Dholera Special Investment Region (SIR) in Gujarat, supporting India’s manufacturing and industrial corridor ambitions.
4. Advanced Computing and Digital Technology
- C-DAC (India) and G42 (UAE) will jointly establish a supercomputing cluster in India, enhancing capabilities in AI, climate modelling, and advanced research.
5. Defence and Security Cooperation
- A Letter of Intent was signed to establish a Strategic Defence Partnership, focusing on defence manufacturing, joint development, and interoperability between armed forces.
6. Space Collaboration
- IN-SPACe and the UAE Space Agency agreed to cooperate on launch infrastructure and satellite facilities, reflecting trust in high-end strategic technologies.
Overview of India–UAE Bilateral Relations
- Strategic Framework: Relations were elevated to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership in 2017.
- Trade and Investment:
- UAE is India’s 3rd largest trading partner and 2nd largest export destination.
- Bilateral trade crossed USD 100 billion in FY 2024–25.
- A Bilateral Investment Treaty was signed in 2024.
- Energy Partnership:
- UAE is India’s 4th largest crude oil supplier and 2nd largest supplier of LNG and LPG.
- First foreign country to invest in India’s Strategic Petroleum Reserves (Mangalore).
- Digital Connectivity:
- UPI–AANI linkage and RuPay–JAYWAN integration promote seamless digital payments.
- Defence Exercises:
- Desert Cyclone (Army), Zayed Talwar (Navy), and Desert Flag (Air Force).
- Regional & Global Initiatives:
- Founding partners of the India–Middle East–Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC).
- Key members of the I2U2 grouping (India–Israel–UAE–USA).
- People-to-People Ties:
- About 3.5 million Indians reside in the UAE, contributing nearly 20% of India’s remittances.
Conclusion
The UAE President’s visit underscores a shift in India–UAE ties from energy-centric cooperation to a multi-dimensional strategic partnership spanning defence manufacturing, advanced technology, digital infrastructure, and regional connectivity.