Introduction
Emerging technologies like artificial intelligence (AI), quantum computing, Internet of Things (IoT), robotics, etc., are redefining the international system not only through socio-economic advancement but also by reshaping the boundaries of the global geopolitical landscape. The race to lead the AI ecosystem has intensified across the globe with nation-states establishing cross-border partnerships through bilateral, minilateral, or multilateral initiatives, and India-UAE is no exception. In the past decade, the UAE has emerged as a major pillar of India’s outreach to the West Asian region. Moving beyond the traditional cooperation areas of trade, oil, and remittances, both nations have made concerted efforts to identify new avenues of collaboration and make the partnership future-oriented and multi-dimensional in nature. Political willingness, shared regional concerns, and personal rapport between the top leadership have reinvigorated the bilateral ties. Since 2015, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has made seven visits to the UAE, and the UAE’s President Sheikh Mohammed bin-Zayed Al-Nahyan (MBZ) has visited India five times, with the most recent visit in January 2026. This visit lasted for only three hours, underscoring the depth and maturity of India-UAE relations “beyond the formalities of diplomatic maneuvering and protocol.” A major highlight of MBZ’s latest visit was agreements signed and announcements made in sectors such as the space industry, digital innovation, supercomputing technologies, and data embassies. With technology becoming the core of the bilateral ties, it is necessary to understand the opportunities and challenges involved in the realm, particularly from the perspective of India’s national interests.
