Dr. Carole Nakhle, CEO of Crystol Energy, spoke to CNN18 about the strengthening relationship between India and the UAE, as Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Abu Dhabi placed energy security, investment, and regional stability at the centre of bilateral ties.
Key takeaways
- The UAE has become one of India’s most important partners in the Middle East, with energy playing a central role in the relationship.
- India remains a major hotspot for energy demand growth, while the UAE holds significant oil and gas resources and plays an increasingly important role in regional energy trade.
- Prime Minister Modi’s visit to Abu Dhabi highlighted how energy security continues to shape India’s foreign policy priorities, especially at a time of heightened regional uncertainty.
- The Indian diaspora in the UAE remains a major bridge between both countries, strengthening economic, social, and cultural ties beyond energy.
- The UAE is seeking to deepen its relationship with India through broader cooperation in energy, trade, investment, and strategic sectors.
- For India, stronger ties with the UAE support the need to diversify energy sources and strengthen security of supply.
- The UAE’s position outside OPEC gives it more room to shape its own energy strategy, which could make it an even more relevant partner for energy importers such as India.
Related Analysis
“Crisis without collapse: The Middle East oil shock“, Dr Carole Nakhle, Apr 2026
Related Comments
“What measures could EU countries consider to reduce fuel demand?“, Christof Rühl, Apr 2026
“War puts key Iranian oil terminals at risk“, Dr Carole Nakhle, Mar 2026
