India at the Heart of Saadiyat Cultural District: A New Era of UAE-India Relations

30 May 2024

India and the UAE share a relationship that transcends centuries, rooted in robust trade exchanges and rich cultural connections. Picture this: ships laden with silk, gold, pearls, spices, and textiles crisscrossing the Arabian Sea, laying the groundwork for an economic partnership. These early interactions fostered mutual respect and understanding, setting the stage for the deep and multifaceted relationships we witness in modern times.

Diplomatic Foundations: The Early Years

The official diplomatic tango between India and the UAE began in the early 1970s. The UAE appointed its first ambassador to New Delhi in 1972, while India followed suit with its ambassador to the UAE in June 1973. This diplomatic exchange signaled the start of a dedicated effort from both sides to bolster relations across various fields.

In 1975, the two nations signed a Cultural Agreement, underscoring their commitment to strengthening bilateral cultural activities. Fast forward to today, and you’ll find that India and the UAE enjoy strong ties, continually reinforced by the vibrant Indian diaspora of over 3.5 million people who play a pivotal role in the growth and development of the UAE’s economy and vibrant society.

Cultural Connections: Bridging Hearts and Minds

Emiratis have long been familiar with and receptive to Indian culture. This cultural recognition was highlighted when India was declared the 'Guest of Honour Country' for the prestigious 2018 edition of the Abu Dhabi Festival. This honor reflected the deep cultural ties and mutual admiration between the two nations.

A significant milestone in cultural exchange came on August 26, 2021, with a historic agreement between New York University Abu Dhabi (NYUAD) and the Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR) to establish a Visiting Professorship in Social Science at NYUAD. This agreement aims to foster broader academic engagement between the two countries, enhancing mutual understanding and collaboration in the academic sphere.

Another nod to cultural symbiosis is the construction of the first traditional Hindu temple in Abu Dhabi. The foundation stone for this temple was laid in April 2019, witnessed by key UAE government officials, the Indian Ambassador, and members of the Indian diaspora.

In June 2022, the Indian Mission, in association with the Abu Dhabi Sports Council, celebrated the eighth edition of International Yoga Day, highlighting the cultural resonance and shared wellness practices embraced by both nations.

Economic Ties: A Thriving Partnership

On the economic front, the relationship between India and the UAE is nothing short of dynamic. Bilateral trade between the two nations stood at a whopping USD 85 billion in 2022–23. India has the distinction of being the first country with which the UAE signed a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA). Since the CEPA came into force on May 1, 2022, bilateral trade has increased by approximately 15%, showcasing the robust economic synergy between the two nations.

Saadiyat Cultural District: India at the Center Stage

Looking ahead, the Department of Culture and Tourism in Abu Dhabi has reaffirmed its commitment to completing the Saadiyat Cultural District by 2025. This cultural hub is a unique constellation of museums, cultural institutions, collections, and public programming that celebrate the achievements of the United Arab Emirates, the region, and the world.

Located on Saadiyat Island, Saadiyat Cultural District is a center for innovation and creativity, research and knowledge, and a place to encounter. ​

The Saadiyat Cultural District is poised to become a beacon of cultural and creative innovation. Home to the Louvre Abu Dhabi, Berklee Abu Dhabi, and Manarat Al Saadiyat, this district will soon welcome the Zayed National Museum, Guggenheim Abu Dhabi, Natural History Museum Abu Dhabi, and teamLab Phenomena Abu Dhabi. And here’s where it gets exciting: Mohamed Al Mubarak, chairman of the Department of Culture and Tourism (DCT) in Abu Dhabi, eloquently stated in an interview that one cannot tell the history of art without India, and the country is to some extent the epicenter of culture. As Abu Dhabi prepares to unveil the Saadiyat Cultural District next year, India will naturally take center stage. Indian visitors can look forward to an exciting new cultural haven in Abu Dhabi, celebrating the profound artistic connections between the two nations.

A Vision for the Future

In conclusion, the India-UAE relationship stands as a shining example of the power of diplomacy, cultural exchange, and strategic collaboration. From the early days of trade to contemporary economic partnerships and rich cultural engagements, this dynamic relationship continues to evolve, promising a future of shared growth and mutual benefit.

As India steps into the spotlight of the Saadiyat Cultural District, it’s clear that the bond between these two nations is not just about surviving the tides of change but thriving amidst them. The journey between India and the UAE is one of mutual respect, shared ambitions, and a collaborative spirit that promises to illuminate the path forward for both nations. Buckle up, because this partnership is set to soar to new heights, bringing with it a world of opportunities and shared success.