India and the United Arab Emirates have set an ambitious goal of doubling bilateral trade to US$ 200 billion by 2032, underscoring the growing depth and strategic importance of ties between the two countries. The announcement came during the visit of UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan to New Delhi, during which both sides concluded around a dozen agreements and understandings across multiple sectors.
Trade, Energy, and Nuclear Cooperation
A key highlight of the visit was the agreement to expand civil nuclear cooperation. India and the UAE agreed to explore partnerships in large nuclear reactors, small modular reactors (SMRs), and nuclear safety, aligned with India’s recently introduced SHANTI Act framework.
On the energy front, the two countries announced a long-term LNG supply arrangement to support India’s energy security. Under the agreement, Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Ltd (HPCL) will import 0.5 million metric tonnes of LNG annually from ADNOC Gas for a period of ten years starting in 2028.
Infrastructure and Financial Collaboration
The visit also marked progress in infrastructure investment and financial cooperation. India invited UAE sovereign wealth funds to participate in the second India-UAE Infrastructure Fund, which is scheduled for launch in 2026.
Several UAE-based entities, including First Abu Dhabi Bank and DP World, have committed investments in Gujarat International Finance Tec-City (GIFT City). In addition, a letter of intent was signed between the Government of Gujarat and the UAE Ministry of Investment for infrastructure development at the Dholera Special Investment Region, which is planned as a hub with integrated airports, rail connectivity, smart urban infrastructure, and energy facilities to attract global investors.
Cooperation Across Emerging Sectors
Beyond trade and infrastructure, the partnership was broadened to include space collaboration, food safety, supercomputing, and digital innovation. Discussions also included plans for data embassies and the potential establishment of a “House of India” in Abu Dhabi, aimed at strengthening cultural and economic engagement.
Strategic Outlook
Analysts note that the expanding scope of cooperation reflects a maturing India–UAE relationship that combines accelerated economic growth with deeper strategic alignment across critical sectors.
Summary
India and the UAE have set a target of reaching US$ 200 billion in bilateral trade by 2032 and announced wide-ranging cooperation spanning nuclear energy, LNG supply, infrastructure investment, and emerging technologies. The agreements signed during the UAE President’s visit highlight the deepening strategic partnership and its growing role in shaping economic and energy ties between the two nations.
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