India and the UAE: A Timeless Bond
When I think of India, I think of family. This sentiment resonates profoundly within the hearts of many, especially considering that over 3.8 million Indians call the UAE their second home. The relationship extends beyond mere geography; it embodies bonds that not only span generations but also traverse centuries.
A Legacy of Friendship
Today, the collaboration between the UAE and India is more than just historical; it’s an evolving partnership. Under the stewardship of Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, alongside Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Ruler of Dubai, we are witnessing a transformation of our longstanding friendship into a pivotal alliance for a vibrant future.
As I embark on my first official visit to India at the invitation of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, I carry with me tales that my family has cherished for generations. My great-grandfather, Sheikh Saeed bin Maktoum Al Maktoum, would often journey to India, mainly for medical assistance. He frequently remarked that he felt at home during those visits, a testament to the warmth and hospitality that Indians have always extended.
Historical Bonds
Long before the UAE was formed in 1971, Indian merchants were drawn to Dubai as a key trading port. They didn’t just bring spices and silk; they fostered friendships that laid the groundwork for an enduring bond. My grandfather, Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum, marked a significant milestone for Indian entrepreneurship by issuing the very first Indian business license in Bur Dubai during the 1960s. This act was not merely bureaucratic; it symbolized the welcoming of Indian innovators into Dubai’s growing economic landscape.
The deep-rooted connections between our cultures can be traced back thousands of years. Archaeological discoveries at Saruq Al Hadid in Dubai reveal Indian beads and ceramics that date back 3,000 years, showcasing the early exchanges of culture and commerce between our two nations.
Economic Growth and Partnership
The UAE and India have developed a partnership steeped in economic promise. The Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) has accelerated trade relations, with bilateral trade reaching an impressive $84.5 billion in 2023-24. Anticipating further growth, we are on track to surpass $100 billion soon.
The UAE has committed to a $75 billion investment aimed at developing India’s infrastructure, affirming our mutual dedication to growth. Moreover, the contributions of the Indian expatriate community in the UAE are undeniable. From the workers constructing our iconic skylines to business leaders pioneering initiatives in various sectors, the Indian diaspora plays a pivotal role in our economy.
Advancements Beyond Trade
Our collaboration is not confined to traditional sectors. It ventures into innovative areas such as artificial intelligence, renewable energy, food security, and defense. The partnership between the Mohammed Bin Rashid Space Centre and the Indian Space Research Organisation represents a monumental step in aerospace advancements. Additionally, the integration of financial systems through initiatives like UPI-NEOPAY illustrates our commitment to building digital bridges between our nations.
Institutions like IIT Delhi and IIM Ahmedabad have also established international campuses in the UAE, solidifying our position as a global hub for talent. Education has always been a cornerstone of our relationship, with the first schools and hospitals in the UAE led by esteemed Indian professionals.
Shared Culture and Celebrations
Our connection extends beyond the economic realm into the vibrant cultural arena. Dubai’s status as the home to the International Cricket Council has turned sports into a significant facet of our relationship. The recent victory of Team India in the Champions Trophy finals brought immense joy to countless cricket fans. Meanwhile, Indian cinema thrives in the UAE, showcasing its allure not just to the Indian diaspora but to global audiences as well.
The popularity of karak tea echoes the merging of our cultures, standing shoulder to shoulder with traditional Arabic gahwa. These shared experiences contribute to the rich tapestry of our intertwined histories.
Looking Toward the Future
As India marches towards its vision of Viksit Bharat 2047, the UAE is simultaneously pushing forward with its Centennial 2071 vision. Both nations understand that achieving greatness is not an inherited privilege but something earned through determination and innovation.
The trade routes that once facilitated the exchange of goods between our shores have now evolved into some of the world’s busiest air and sea corridors. Still, the entrepreneurial spirit that fueled ancient mariners lives on, shaping our present and future.
Adapting to Change Together
Our partnership remains resilient in the face of changing global dynamics. Despite challenges like shifting geopolitical climates and economic tariffs, the UAE and India have continuously forged ahead together. Today, as we delve into artificial intelligence and other emerging technologies, we are positioning ourselves to thrive in an ever-evolving global landscape.
Our ongoing journey from the bustling stock markets of Mumbai to the busy ports and airports of Dubai is a testament to our evolving friendship and partnership. India brings the scale; UAE delivers the speed. This distinctive formula is unstoppable, and it is our shared responsibility to transform this legacy into a living bridge that will lead us to a prosperous future together.
Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum is the Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister, and Minister of Defence of the UAE. The views expressed are personal.
