United Arab Emirates President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan arrives in New Delhi today. He will hold bilateral talks with Prime Minister Narendra Modi during his day-long visit.
Strengthening Strategic Partnership
This visit represents the UAE President's third official trip to India since assuming office. Over the past decade, he has visited India five times, demonstrating the growing importance of bilateral relations.
The Ministry of External Affairs announced the visit on Sunday. Officials stated the visit builds on recent high-level exchanges between the two nations.
High-Level Exchanges Continue
Recent visits include Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan's trip in September 2024. Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum also visited in April 2025.
India and the UAE maintain warm, close, and multi-faceted relations. These ties are supported by strong political, cultural, and economic connections.
Economic Cooperation Thrives
Both countries rank among each other's top trading and investment partners. The Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement has significantly boosted economic ties.
India-UAE trade exceeded $100 billion in FY2024-25. This makes the UAE India's third-largest trading partner and second-largest export destination.
Key Trade Components
Major Indian exports to the UAE include jewellery, refined petroleum, electronics, and agricultural products. India imports substantial crude oil, gold, and diamonds from the Emirates.
Both nations continue efforts to enhance non-oil trade further. The Local Currency Settlement system and Bilateral Investment Treaty support these economic relations.
Regional Context and Challenges
The visit occurs amid regional tensions in Yemen. The UAE and Saudi Arabia, former allies, now support rival groups in the conflict.
Tensions escalated in December 2025 when UAE-backed forces launched an offensive. They aimed to seize oil-rich provinces, sometimes clashing with Saudi-backed units.
Recent Escalations
Saudi-led airstrikes hit a UAE shipment at Mukalla port earlier. This prompted Abu Dhabi to announce a withdrawal from Yemen.
Earlier this month, Saudi Arabia deployed naval forces off Yemen's coast. Riyadh-backed troops began what they described as a peaceful ground offensive against UAE-backed separatists.
New Delhi maintains close ties with both Riyadh and Abu Dhabi. The Gulf neighbors compete for influence across West Asia and Africa, with Yemen emerging as a volatile flashpoint.
Diplomatic Objectives
The two leaders will discuss regional and global issues of mutual interest. India and the UAE share a high degree of convergence on many international matters.
The visit provides an opportunity to chart new frontiers for the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. Both nations enjoy a robust energy partnership, including long-term supply arrangements.
International Perspectives
The UAE recently welcomed the launch of the second phase of the comprehensive Gaza peace plan. They also acknowledged US President Donald Trump's announcement of the Board of Peace framework.
These developments support efforts to consolidate stability and advance political processes in the region.
