UAE President MBZ Visits India, Signs Deals on Energy and Space

NEW DELHI – In a demonstration of bolstering bilateral ties, UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan (MBZ) concluded a high-level official visit to India on Monday, January 19, 2026. The brevity of the visit, lasting only a few hours, was offset by the significant outcomes, including crucial agreements in energy, nuclear technology, and space cooperation, as both nations aim to double their bilateral trade to an ambitious $200 billion by 2032.

A Grand Welcome and Symbolic Gestures

Prime Minister Narendra Modi personally welcomed President MBZ at the New Delhi airport, a special diplomatic gesture underscoring the deep and strategic friendship between India and the UAE. This custom, reserved for the most important international dignitaries, set a tone of warmth and mutual respect for the discussions that followed. The Prime Minister later hosted the UAE President and his family at his official residence, where cultural gifts were exchanged, further cementing the personal bond between the leaders.

Among the notable gifts presented by PM Modi was a Royal Carved Wooden Jhula (swing) from Gujarat, symbolizing togetherness and intergenerational bonding, a poignant gesture given the UAE's declaration of 2026 as the Year of Family. A handcrafted Kashmiri Pashmina shawl, presented in an ornate silver box from Telangana, highlighted India's rich tradition of handloom and handicraft, serving as a token of the nation's cultural heritage. These gestures were not merely ceremonial but reflected a deeper appreciation for shared values and cultural exchanges between the two nations. timesofindia.indiatimes.com

Doubling Down on Trade and Economic Cooperation

A central focus of President MBZ’s visit was the commitment to significantly enhance economic cooperation. Both leaders set an ambitious target to double bilateral trade to an estimated $200 billion by 2032. This objective builds upon the success of the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA), implemented in 2022, which has already seen bilateral trade surpass $100 billion. The UAE has rapidly ascended to become India’s second-largest supplier of liquefied natural gas (LNG), a testament to the strengthening energy ties. economictimes.indiatimes.com

Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri, briefing the media, highlighted that the discussions covered a broad spectrum of commercial and strategic outcomes, encompassing energy security, defense, space, food exports, investments, and advanced computing. The renewed focus on these sectors indicates a strategic alignment to ensure sustained economic growth and stability for both nations.

Energy Security and Nuclear Ambitions

A significant development stemming from the visit was the signing of a long-term Sales and Purchase Agreement for the supply of 0.5 million tonnes of LNG annually between HPCL (Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Limited) and ADNOC (Abu Dhabi National Oil Company). This deal is poised to further bolster India's energy security, ensuring a stable supply of natural gas for its burgeoning economy. hindustantimes.com

Beyond traditional energy, the two leaders also fast-tracked cooperation in advanced nuclear technology, specifically exploring the potential of Small Modular Reactors (SMRs). This foray into SMRs signifies a shared vision for clean energy solutions and a commitment to nuclear power for peaceful purposes, highlighting a mutual interest in futuristic technologies for sustainable development.

Expanding Horizons: Defence, Space, and Digital Integration

The discussions were not limited to commerce and energy. Plans were unveiled for finalizing a strategic defense partnership, indicating a deeper collaboration in military and security affairs. This partnership is expected to involve joint exercises, technology transfer, and intelligence sharing, contributing to regional stability and security.

Space cooperation also emerged as a key area, with both nations keen on leveraging their respective expertise for joint projects and research. This could open doors for collaboration on satellite launches, space exploration missions, and the development of space-based applications, further enhancing their capabilities in this critical domain. Additionally, memoranda of understanding (MoUs) and letters of intent were signed covering artificial intelligence, data centers, and investment-led infrastructure development, specifically mentioning an investment pact for Dholera, an emerging industrial city in Gujarat. These agreements signify a concerted effort to embrace digital transformation and advanced technologies as pillars of their future relationship. m.economictimes.com

A Strategic Partnership Amidst Regional Dynamics

President MBZ’s visit comes at a time of heightened geopolitical developments in West Asia, making the reaffirmation of strong ties with India even more crucial. The dialogue between the two leaders extended beyond bilateral issues, touching upon regional and global challenges. The shared commitment to a rules-based international order and stability in their respective regions underscores the strategic importance of this partnership.

Prime Minister Modi articulated his anticipation for the discussions on social media, stating, "Went to the airport to welcome my brother, His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE. His visit illustrates the importance he attaches to a strong India-UAE friendship. Looking forward to our discussions." This sentiment reflects a personal rapport that underpins the strong diplomatic and economic relationship between India and the UAE.

Looking Ahead

The swift yet impactful visit of UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan to India has reinforced the robust and multifaceted strategic partnership between the two nations. The agreements on energy supply, nuclear technology, defense, and space, coupled with the ambitious trade target, lay a strong foundation for a decade of enhanced cooperation. As India and the UAE navigate an evolving global landscape, their deepening alliance is set to play a pivotal role in fostering regional stability and driving mutual prosperity.

The focus on innovation, sustainable energy, and strategic sectors demonstrates a forward-looking approach, emphasizing collaboration that extends beyond traditional trade to encompass critical areas shaping the future. This visit serves as a powerful testament to the enduring friendship and shared vision between India and the UAE.