# India-UAE commercial and defense cooperation

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/india-uae-commercial-and-defense-cooperation
> Updated: 2026-08-22T03:11:01.000Z. Sources: 2. Developments: 2.

India and the United Arab Emirates are expanding bilateral cooperation across the commercial and defense sectors. Indian brands are utilizing the UAE as a strategic gateway to Middle Eastern markets, though experts emphasize the necessity of navigating local regulatory requirements and market-entry models.

In the defense sector, the shared use of Rafale fighter jets has created opportunities for a regional maintenance hub. To support this, Safran Aircraft Engines plans to open a specialized military M88 engine repair center in Hyderabad, India, by late 2026. This facility will be the first of its kind located outside of France, intended to service regional fleets.

## Timeline

### 2026-08-22: India and UAE strengthen ties in commerce and defense

India and the UAE are expanding cooperation in commercial markets and defense, specifically regarding Rafale fighter jet maintenance and regional business expansion.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/india-and-uae-strengthen-ties-in-commerce-and-defense

### 2026-08-09: Egypt and UAE bilateral trade reaches $9.68 billion in 2025

Egypt and the UAE reached $9.68 billion in bilateral trade in 2025, with Egypt securing a $4.3 billion surplus as exports to the UAE grew by 475% since 2021.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/egypt-and-uae-bilateral-trade-reaches-968-billion-in-2025

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Cite as: India-UAE commercial and defense cooperation. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/india-uae-commercial-and-defense-cooperation