Bilateral trade between India and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) has crossed US$100 billion since the signing of the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA), marking a significant milestone in the economic relationship between the two countries.
External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar highlighted the achievement while welcoming UAE Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan to Mumbai. He said the growing partnership reflects the progress made by both countries in strengthening economic ties and advancing their Comprehensive Strategic Partnership.
Despite global economic uncertainties and regional challenges, India and the UAE continue to expand trade, investment and cooperation across key sectors. Rising two-way investments reflect growing business confidence in both economies, while collaboration in defence, energy and technology is increasingly acquiring strategic importance.
The CEPA has played an important role in strengthening commercial engagement by improving market access and creating opportunities for businesses in both countries. The trade milestone underscores the growing significance of the UAE as one of India’s key economic partners in the Gulf region.
Jaishankar also expressed concern over the evolving situation in the Gulf, emphasising the importance of dialogue and diplomacy in addressing regional challenges. He reaffirmed India’s commitment to the free, safe and unimpeded movement of trade, energy and fertilisers, highlighting the importance of secure supply chains for regional and global economic stability.
The relationship has also benefited from sustained high-level political engagement. The UAE leadership’s visits to India and Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s repeated engagements with the Gulf nation have reinforced cooperation across economic, strategic and diplomatic priorities.
UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan visited India in January, while Abu Dhabi Crown Prince Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan participated in the AI Impact Summit in February and the 18th BRICS Summit. Modi also visited the UAE in May, continuing efforts to deepen bilateral engagement.
Beyond trade and investment, the partnership encompasses energy security, technological development, defence cooperation and cultural exchanges. Strong people-to-people connections, supported by the substantial Indian community in the UAE, remain an important foundation of bilateral relations.
Jaishankar thanked the UAE leadership for its continued support for the welfare of Indian nationals living in the country. The Indian community plays a significant role in the UAE’s economy and serves as an important bridge between the two societies.
With bilateral trade surpassing the US$100 billion mark since CEPA, India and the UAE are seeking to build on their economic achievements through deeper investment, stronger supply chains and broader strategic cooperation. Sustaining this momentum will be important as both countries navigate an uncertain global economic environment and pursue long-term growth opportunities.
