United Arab Emirates
Top Strategic Trade Partner, Energy & Technology Hub, Emerging Services Market
- Band cut
- ≥ 80
- Countries in band
- 20
The seven measures behind United Arab Emirates's 91
Each is scored 0–100, where higher is always better. Open a row to read the analysis behind its number.
| Measure | Score | Position on 0–100 |
|---|---|---|
| 92 | ||
| 100 | ||
| 95 | ||
| 92 | ||
| 88 | ||
| 93 | ||
| 75 |
Bonus considerations — useful, but they do not affect the score
These two are worked out for every country as context for a trip. They are not part of the 91 above, and nothing here can move it in either direction.
Higher means cheaper for an Indian traveller.
Higher means easier to eat vegetarian.
Why United Arab Emirates?
The standing assessment behind the public sentiment reading of 95, rewritten at each refresh.
The diplomatic and official rhetoric from the United Arab Emirates government towards India continues to exhibit exceptional warmth and strategic depth, evidenced by high-level engagements and reaffirmations of a comprehensive strategic partnership in the past 30 days. Most notably, the 16th India-UAE Joint Commission Meeting and the 5th Strategic Dialogue, co-chaired by UAE Foreign Minister Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan and Indian External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar in late July 2026, underscored mutual satisfaction with the 'depth and breadth' of bilateral ties and reaffirmed commitment to initiatives like the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor and working for the Global South. These discussions further built upon the positive momentum from earlier in the year, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi's May visit and his meeting with UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan on the sidelines of the G7 Summit in June, where both leaders discussed strengthening cooperation in technology and AI, and PM Modi referred to the UAE as his 'second home'. The UAE's continued support for India's BRICS Chairmanship in 2026 and the upcoming AI Impact Summit in New Delhi further solidify this highly positive diplomatic alignment. The framework for strategic defense partnership remains a key pillar, with ongoing discussions aimed at expanding defense industry collaboration. The historical perception of India as a 'trusted friend' is consistently reinforced through these robust and multi-sectoral engagements.
Reasons to visit
The United Arab Emirates is an exceptionally appealing destination for Indian tourists, offering a spectacular blend of futuristic marvels and rich Arabian culture. Renowned for its extremely high Safety Score, visitors can explore its vibrant cities and serene deserts with absolute peace of mind, making it ideal for families and solo travelers alike. The country boasts a very high Friendliness Index, particularly towards Indian visitors, a warmth amplified by the significant Indian diaspora and shared cultural ties, ensuring a welcoming and comfortable experience. With an exceptionally high Popularity Score, especially among Indian travelers, the UAE has perfected the art of hospitality, delivering world-class shopping, opulent resorts, thrilling adventures, and delectable culinary experiences that cater to diverse tastes, including a wide array of Indian cuisine. From the glittering skyscrapers of Dubai to Abu Dhabi's cultural treasures, the UAE offers an accessible, luxurious, and truly unforgettable getaway just a short flight away.
Where Indian travellers go
- 1Dubai
- 2Abu Dhabi
- 3Burj Khalifa
Worth knowing
- The UAE is home to the world's tallest building, the Burj Khalifa.
- It features some of the largest man-made islands, such as the iconic Palm Jumeirah.
- Over 80% of its population are expatriates, contributing to its diverse and multicultural fabric.
In the record
- Band
- Strategic Partner
- Trade rank
- 3
- Trade volume
- $105.8B
- Share of India’s trade
- 9.25%
- GDP
- $552.3B