UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan Arrives in India for Official Visit

High-Level Talks to Bolster Strategic Partnership

Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the United Arab Emirates, arrived in New Delhi today, January 19, 2026, for an official visit at the invitation of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The visit aims to further strengthen the robust bilateral ties and explore new avenues for cooperation under the India-UAE Comprehensive Strategic Partnership.

This marks Sheikh Mohamed's third official visit to India since assuming the presidency and his fifth visit to the country over the past decade, underscoring the growing momentum in relations between the two nations.

Key Areas of Discussion

During the day-long visit, the two leaders are expected to engage in extensive discussions covering a wide array of sectors. Key areas on the agenda include:

• Trade and Investment: Building on existing frameworks such as the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) and the Bilateral Investment Treaty.
• Energy Cooperation: Reinforcing the robust energy partnership, including long-term supply arrangements and a focus on civil nuclear cooperation.
• Defence and Security: Enhancing collaboration in defence and security matters.
• Connectivity and Technology: Advancing initiatives like the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC) and exploring digital connectivity.
• People-to-People Ties: Strengthening cultural exchanges and educational linkages.

The visit follows recent high-level exchanges, including visits by Abu Dhabi Crown Prince Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan in September 2024 and Dubai Crown Prince Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum in April 2025.

Regional and Global Issues on the Agenda

Beyond bilateral cooperation, the leaders will also exchange views on regional and global issues of mutual interest, where India and the UAE share a high degree of convergence.

A significant topic of discussion is anticipated to be the prevailing tension in West Asia and the US President Donald Trump's push for a 'Board of Peace for Gaza,' an initiative that the UAE has welcomed and to which India has also received an invitation. The visit acquires added significance against this backdrop.

Furthermore, discussions are expected to touch upon the UAE's support for the upcoming AI Impact Summit to be hosted by India next month, and India's presidency of the BRICS grouping in 2026.

Deepening Economic and Strategic Ties

The UAE remains one of India's top trading and investment partners. The ongoing visit is poised to further consolidate the strategic partnership, reinforcing both nations' commitment to regional stability, economic growth, and global cooperation.