Hamdan Bin Mohammed Concludes First Official Visit To India, Strengthening Bilateral Partnership Across Key Sectors

H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, recently completed his inaugural official visit to India. During this trip, he engaged with top Indian leaders to discuss enhancing bilateral cooperation and strengthening partnerships in key strategic areas. He praised the enduring partnership between the UAE and India, emphasising mutual trust and respect as the foundation for a prosperous future.

Sheikh Hamdan highlighted the exemplary ties between both nations and their people, which continue to grow through a shared commitment to expanding cooperation in vital sectors. This collaboration supports their sustainable development goals. He met with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, conveying greetings from UAE leadership and acknowledging India's rich heritage and large population.

The visit included witnessing the signing of eight Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) aimed at boosting collaboration in infrastructure, healthcare, higher education, maritime services, logistics, and private sector engagement. These MoUs build on the 2022 Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) and Bilateral Investment Treaty (BIT), fostering a more open and investment-friendly economic relationship.

Significant achievements have been made since these agreements were established. Notably, there was a 20% increase in bilateral trade in 2024, reaching AED240 billion compared to 2023. Sheikh Hamdan commended the UAE's private sector for its crucial role in expanding global economic ties through strategic projects and investments.

During his visit, Sheikh Hamdan attended the opening of Dubai International Chamber's second representative office in India, located in Bengaluru. He also visited the Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE), Asia's first stock exchange established in 1875. Additionally, he inaugurated DP World's advanced Free Trade Warehousing Zone (FTWZ) – the Nhava Sheva Business Park (NSBP) – in Mumbai.

This marks DP World's third FTWZ in India with an investment exceeding US$200 million (AED 735 million). The establishment of these facilities underscores the commitment to enhancing trade relations between the two countries through innovative solutions that support sustainable development.

Delegation Accompanying Sheikh Hamdan

Sheikh Hamdan was accompanied by a high-level delegation during his visit to India. This included H.H. Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, President of Dubai Civil Aviation Authority; Mohammad bin Abdullah Al Gergawi, Minister of Cabinet Affairs; Reem bint Ebrahim Al Hashimy, Minister of State for International Cooperation; Dr. Ahmad Belhoul Al Falasi, Minister of Sports; Abdulla bin Touq Al Marri, Minister of Economy; Mohamed bin Hadi Al Hussaini, Minister of State for Financial Affairs; Omar bin Sultan Al Olama, Minister of State for Artificial Intelligence.

The delegation also comprised senior officials representing various economic sectors. Their presence highlights the importance placed on strengthening ties with India across multiple domains.

The visit underscored the deepening relationship between UAE and India as they work together towards a brighter future through innovation and technology collaboration across essential sectors.

With inputs from WAM