Prime Minister Narendra Modi said to UAE President Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan that India stands "shoulder to shoulder" with the UAE [1].

The meeting comes amid escalating tensions in West Asia, specifically following attacks launched by Iran against facilities within the UAE [2]. India's public support for the Emirates signals a strategic effort to maintain regional stability and protect the significant Indian diaspora living in the country [3].

The talks in Abu Dhabi on May 15, 2026 [4], marked the beginning of a diplomatic tour covering five nations [5]. During the discussions, Modi condemned the recent Iranian aggression and praised the UAE's restraint and patience during the conflict [3].

Modi highlighted the UAE's role in ensuring the safety of Indian citizens during the period of instability. He said the efforts to keep the Indian community safe were "truly commendable" [3]. The prime minister further emphasized his personal connection to the region, saying that the UAE is his "second home" [1].

Beyond the immediate security concerns, the leaders discussed cooperation to promote peace, and stability across the region [1]. The visit is expected to address critical concerns regarding energy security and the ongoing volatility of West-Asia geopolitics [6].

Modi said India is prepared to cooperate with the UAE to ensure that regional tensions do not escalate further into a wider conflict [1]. The diplomatic outreach underscores India's goal of balancing its strategic partnerships while condemning direct attacks on its partners' sovereign territory [2].

“India stands shoulder to shoulder with the UAE.”

This diplomatic gesture reinforces the strategic partnership between New Delhi and Abu Dhabi at a time of heightened volatility in the Middle East. By explicitly condemning Iranian attacks, India is prioritizing its security and economic ties with the UAE, which hosts a massive Indian expatriate population and serves as a critical energy supplier, while attempting to navigate the complex geopolitical rivalry between Iran and Gulf states.