UAE–India Business Council Reveals Strategic Roadmap for 2026

Post by : Bianca Suleiman

The UAE–India Business Council has officially launched an extensive programme for 2026, designed to bolster the strategic economic relationship between the two nations and build on the progress made in the past year.

This newly established roadmap is anchored in three main pillars: knowledge development, strategic facilitation, and enhanced engagement among public and private sector entities. These elements are intended to promote cooperation, create new investment prospects, and ensure sustainable growth in both economies.

In line with its knowledge development initiatives, the Council plans to produce a series of applied policy papers that will address crucial sectors of the future. Topics will cover the integration of artificial intelligence in various industries and governance, infrastructure advancements, the changing role of sovereign wealth funds, consumer behaviour trends, and the resilience of global supply chains. Additionally, the programme will encompass joint initiatives in Africa, highlighting the converging economic interests of the UAE and India in emerging markets.

The expanded agenda for the Council builds on the successes of 2025, which included the first India–UAE: Partners in Progress Conclave, uniting high-profile policymakers, leading investors, and business executives to outline future economic collaboration.

Furthermore, the Council conducted a closed strategic dialogue in Dubai with India’s Minister of Commerce and Industry, Piyush Goyal, which helped to reinforce policy alignment and emphasized both governments' dedication to boosting trade, investment, and industrial cooperation.

In addition to trade and industry initiatives, the Council has made strides in social impact projects, including ongoing work on the UAE–India Friendship Hospital and initiatives aimed at enhancing healthcare and social infrastructure. The Council is also progressing with education and community programmes such as the DREAM School in Kashmir, which seeks to improve access to quality education and skill development for youth.

Looking forward, the Council plans to spearhead a series of policy dialogues and reciprocal trade missions targeting key sectors like advanced manufacturing, clean energy, fintech, and healthcare innovation. These initiatives align with the mutual goal of both nations to elevate bilateral trade and investment to US$200 billion in the upcoming years.

Additionally, the UAE–India Business Council is set to lend its insights at the World Governments Summit 2026, affirming its crucial role in bridging policy vision with practical economic execution.

With the rollout of its 2026 roadmap, the Council positions itself as a central player in one of the world’s most dynamic bilateral partnerships, aiming to convert strategic aspirations into significant outcomes for communities and businesses in both the UAE and India.