During the official visit of Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum to India, eight key agreements were signed between the UAE and India, marking a significant step forward in their growing strategic partnership. These agreements span healthcare, education, maritime infrastructure, logistics, and business collaboration—underlining both nations’ commitment to long-term cooperation across vital sectors.
Healthcare Infrastructure for Indian Workers in Dubai
A major highlight was the MoU signed to establish the UAE-India Friendship Hospital (UIFH) in Dubai, a not-for-profit healthcare initiative aimed at providing accessible and affordable medical services. Endorsed at the leadership level, this hospital will primarily support the large Indian workforce in the UAE. Indian Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal welcomed the initiative, calling it heartwarming and impactful.
In addition, Dubai Medical University (DMU) and AIIMS agreed to strengthen academic and research ties. Their MoU focuses on faculty and student exchanges, joint research on global health challenges, digital transformation, and AI integration in healthcare education.
New IIM-A Campus to Rise in Dubai
To expand educational cooperation, IIM Ahmedabad signed an MoU with the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism to launch a global campus in Dubai. Initially located in Dubai International Academic City, the campus will offer a one-year MBA program later this year. A permanent campus is planned to be operational by 2029.
The initiative aligns with the Dubai Economic Agenda D33, aimed at developing business leadership and establishing Dubai as a hub for innovation in education for the Middle East, Africa, and Central Asia.
Partnerships to Modernize Maritime and Logistics Sectors
In the maritime sector, Drydocks World and Cochin Shipyard Limited signed an MoU to develop ship repair clusters in Kochi and Vadinar, promoting offshore fabrication and advanced marine engineering. This collaboration is expected to boost employment and modernize India’s port infrastructure.
Simultaneously, DP World and RITES formalized a logistics-focused partnership to build resilient, tech-enabled supply chains. The agreement leverages the UAE-India Virtual Trade Corridor, aiming to streamline customs, logistics, and regulatory processes between the two nations.
Strengthening Private Sector Collaboration
To encourage two-way business engagement, Dubai Chambers signed MoUs with CII, FICCI, and the IMC Chamber of Commerce and Industry. These agreements will facilitate Indian businesses in entering the Dubai market and support Dubai-based companies exploring opportunities in India.
Joint efforts will include business matchmaking, participation in trade fairs, and data exchange to enhance bilateral investments and identify emerging opportunities across both markets.
These wide-ranging agreements reflect a shared vision of deepening India-UAE relations through cooperation in future-ready sectors such as healthcare, education, maritime development, and trade. The visit by Sheikh Hamdan has catalyzed tangible outcomes that will benefit citizens, industries, and governments on both sides—laying a strong foundation for long-term strategic collaboration.
