New Delhi: The growing ties between India and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) have got a new strength. On Tuesday, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar warmly welcomed Dubai Crown Prince Sheikh Hamdan bin Muhammad bin Rashid Al Maktoum in New Delhi. Sheikh Hamdan, who is also the Deputy Prime Minister and Defense Minister of the UAE, arrived in the capital on 8 April 2025 on his first official visit to India. This meeting is considered an important step towards further deepening diplomatic and economic ties between the two countries.

Jaishankar’s welcome message

During this meeting held at the headquarters of the Ministry of External Affairs, Jaishankar greeted Sheikh Hamdan and said, “I am very happy to welcome you on the beginning of your first official visit to India. This visit will take our bilateral relations to new heights.” According to sources, the two leaders discussed issues such as trade, investment, defense cooperation and regional stability. The meeting comes at a time when ties between India and the UAE are growing stronger than ever.

Significance of Sheikh Hamdan’s first visit to India

Sheikh Hamdan, known for his visionary leadership and contribution to making Dubai a global hub, is on his first official visit to India. His important role in the UAE—especially in defence and administration—makes this visit special. A Foreign Ministry official said, “This visit is a symbol of the growing partnership between the two countries. Sheikh Hamdan’s visit reflects the UAE’s commitment to India.”

Trade relations between India and the UAE have grown rapidly in the last few years. Bilateral trade has grown by more than 20% after the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) was signed in 2022. The UAE is India’s third largest trading partner, and this visit is expected to further strengthen this relationship.

Human and cultural ties

This visit is not limited to diplomacy. Most of the more than 35 lakh expatriate Indians living in India are in the UAE. These people act as a strong cultural bridge between the two countries. Mohammad Ali, a Delhi-based businessman who lived in the UAE for 15 years, says, “It is a matter of pride for us that Sheikh Hamdan has come to India. It shows how important the UAE considers us.”

What was discussed?

The talks between Jaishankar and Sheikh Hamdan included many important issues. Defense cooperation was a major focus, as both countries have common concerns about regional security. Apart from this, cooperation in areas like energy, technology and green development was also emphasized. An expert, Dr. Anita Rao, says, “This meeting is an opportunity for India to strengthen strategic partnership with the Gulf countries. Sheikh Hamdan’s visit is a solid step in this direction.”

Importance in the regional context

This visit holds special significance amid growing tensions in the Indian Ocean region and instability in the Middle East. The UAE has been a trusted partner of India, and this visit can further deepen the trust between the two countries. Jaishankar’s meeting with Sheikh Hamdan will not only strengthen bilateral relations but can also give a positive message for regional peace.

Way forward

This visit of Sheikh Hamdan is not a mere formality. It signals a new beginning between the two countries. More high-level meetings are likely to take place during his visit to India, which may also include a meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Sources in the Ministry of External Affairs say that this visit can lay the foundation for many major agreements.

As Jaishankar said, “Our relationship is not limited to just trade, but is based on mutual respect and shared dreams.” This visit of Sheikh Hamdan is a step towards turning that dream into reality.

(The author is an independent international affairs journalist. This article is based on facts and expert opinion.)