At the News9 Global Summit – Dubai Edition, Indian Ambassador to UAE Sanjay Sudhir emphasized the growing significance of India-UAE relations, calling the UAE one of India's closest and most strategic partners in the world today.

Addressing the audience, Sudhir noted:

“A large number of Indians are now making the UAE their home. The relationship between our two nations is no longer limited to trade — it's evolving into something far deeper.”

India-UAE Bond: Stronger Than Ever

Sudhir outlined the historic and strategic nature of the bilateral ties. The Comprehensive Strategic Partnership Agreement signed in 2017 laid the groundwork for a multifaceted alliance — from trade to defense, and from education to culture.

The India-UAE Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) signed in 2022 has further accelerated this momentum. Sudhir hailed it as:

“The boldest step yet by the UAE and a powerful testament to the strength of our relationship.”

According to Sudhir, CEPA helped India-UAE bilateral trade cross the $100 billion mark, recording a 19% year-on-year growth in 2024-25.

Cultural Bridges: BAPS Hindu Temple Symbolizes Harmony

One of the most powerful symbols of this friendship, Sudhir said, is the BAPS Hindu temple in Abu Dhabi, inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in February 2024.

“This temple is not just a place of worship — it's a beacon of harmony and cultural unity,” he said.
“Today, like Burj Khalifa, it is one of the most visited landmarks in the UAE, having attracted over 2.4 million visitors so far.”

Growing Indian Presence and Shared Vision

Sanjay Sudhir pointed out that the UAE is the only country to invest in India's Strategic Petroleum Reserves, highlighting its trust in India's long-term growth.

Beyond trade and diplomacy, people-to-people connections are flourishing:

• More Indians are settling in the UAE

• IIFT now has a Dubai campus

• Cricket, especially Indian cricket, is immensely popular among UAE residents

UAE’s Support on Global Issues

The ambassador also touched upon UAE's support during the Pahalgam terror attack, stating:

“UAE was the first nation to openly condemn the attack, once again demonstrating the depth of mutual understanding.”

Barun Das Praises India’s Global Media Influence

TV9 Network MD & CEO Barun Das, who shared the stage with Sudhir, highlighted the media’s role in shaping India’s global image. He praised News9 for bringing Indian voices to international platforms, with past summits held in Germany and now Dubai.