Warmth defined the reception at Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s New Delhi home, where UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and family were greeted with open arms. Carefully chosen gifts spotlighted India’s handicraft prowess, fortifying the nations’ alliance.
Gujarat’s intricately carved wooden jhula stole the show— a swing symbolizing household harmony and cross-generational ties, perfectly timed for UAE’s 2026 family-focused year.
The president was also presented a supple Kashmiri pashmina shawl within a silver box from Telangana, highlighting handwoven luxury. Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak Al Ketbi mirrored this with her pashmina gift, plus world-renowned Kashmiri saffron in silver elegance. The spice’s vivid red strands and scent are Kashmir’s pride.
This short visit gains heft amid worldwide strife: US-China-Russia geopolitical spats, Iranian volatility, and UAE-Saudi undercurrents. India-UAE engagement offers stability.
Bilateral trade soared beyond $100.06 billion this fiscal year—19.6% growth—across vital sectors like energy, defense, tech, and finance. PM Modi’s Order of Zayed accolade in 2019 marks the rapport’s depth.
Through these cultural exchanges, leaders not only celebrated heritage but charted a course for enduring partnership.