Modi Personally Welcomes UAE President at Delhi Airport in Rare Gesture of Brotherhood
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi personally welcomed UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan at Delhi airport today in a rare and symbolic display of the close personal and strategic ties between India and the United Arab Emirates.
The Prime Minister travelled to the airport to receive Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed, describing him as “my brother” in a post on X. “Went to the airport to welcome my brother, His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE. His visit illustrates the importance he attaches to a strong India-UAE friendship. Looking forward to our discussions,” PM Modi wrote.
The two leaders shared a warm embrace upon arrival and travelled together from the airport in the same vehicle, underlining the deep mutual respect and personal rapport that has characterised bilateral relations in recent years.
The visit, which lasts approximately two hours and was held at the invitation of Prime Minister Modi, includes focused bilateral talks aimed at further strengthening the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. Discussions are expected to cover trade and investment, energy security, defence cooperation, technology, and shared perspectives on regional stability amid ongoing developments in West Asia.
This marks Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed’s third official visit to India since becoming President and his fifth overall in the past decade. It follows a series of high-level exchanges, including visits by Abu Dhabi Crown Prince Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan in 2024 and Dubai Crown Prince Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum in 2025.
The meeting comes at a time of evolving regional dynamics, including efforts toward Gaza stabilisation and broader Middle East peace initiatives, where both countries share strong interests in promoting security, economic growth, and strategic cooperation.
