PM Modi’s Seventh Visit to UAE Strengthens Bilateral Ties

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi embarked on his seventh visit to the United Arab Emirates (UAE) on Tuesday, welcomed by a significant gathering of Indian expatriates ahead of upcoming elections in India. Upon arrival in Abu Dhabi, Modi was greeted by UAE President Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, with whom he has fostered a close relationship, enhancing the ties between the two nations. Following a ceremonial welcome, the leaders engaged in discussions that resulted in the signing of several bilateral agreements, highlighting the deepening cooperation across various sectors such as trade, defense, and energy over the past nine years.

Despite the anticipation surrounding Modi’s visit, the UAE government has yet to disclose the specifics of the discussions between Modi and Sheikh Mohammed.

The visit is marked by a significant event at Zayed Sports City Stadium, where tens of thousands of Indians residing in the UAE are expected to gather to hear Modi speak. The event is exclusively open to Indian nationals.

Modi’s trip coincides with domestic challenges in India, where police used tear gas and detentions against farmers protesting for guaranteed crop prices in New Delhi. The farmers’ protests, which have been a contentious issue since Modi repealed controversial agricultural laws in 2021, could impact the political landscape as Modi seeks a third term in office.

In the UAE, Indians make up the largest expatriate community, with over 3.5 million residents contributing to the country’s workforce across various sectors. Modi’s visit underscores the longstanding and evolving economic relationship between India and the UAE, which includes significant trade and a free trade agreement aimed at boosting bilateral trade to $100 billion. The relationship extends to energy partnerships and initiatives to facilitate trade, such as allowing transactions in rupees to reduce costs.

Despite India’s increasing communal tensions under Modi’s leadership, the UAE has continued to strengthen ties with India, awarding Modi its highest civilian honor in 2019 amidst criticisms related to his policies in Kashmir.

Modi’s 2015 visit marked a turning point in the diplomatic relations between India and the UAE, rejuvenating the connection after a lengthy hiatus. During his current visit, Modi is also scheduled to speak at the World Governments Summit in Dubai and inaugurate a new Hindu temple, further solidifying the cultural and diplomatic bonds between the two countries. Modi will conclude his trip with a visit to Qatar, continuing his diplomatic engagements in the region.