Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday, 15 May condemned the attacks on the United Arab Emirates and expressed gratitude to UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan for the care extended to the Indian community during the crisis. The remarks came during a bilateral meeting in Abu Dhabi, underscoring the depth of the India-UAE strategic partnership at a moment of acute regional tension.

Modi's Condemnation and Commendation

Speaking directly to President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Prime Minister Modi said, 'We strongly condemn the attack that took place in the UAE. The way the UAE was targeted is unacceptable in any form. In these difficult circumstances, the restraint and courage you demonstrated are highly commendable.'

Modi further added, 'We congratulate you for the steps taken under your leadership for maintaining national unity, security and territorial integrity.' The remarks signal India's unambiguous alignment with the UAE at a time when West Asia is navigating a volatile security environment.

Gratitude for the Indian Diaspora's Safety

The Indian community in the UAE — numbering approximately 3.5 million, one of the largest diaspora concentrations in the world — has been at the centre of New Delhi's concerns during the ongoing regional crisis. Modi expressed 'heartfelt appreciation' to the UAE government and the royal family for looking after Indian nationals 'like members of your own family.'

This acknowledgement carries diplomatic weight: the welfare of overseas Indians has been a consistent foreign-policy priority for the Modi government, and the UAE's proactive protection of the diaspora during a crisis reinforces the bilateral relationship beyond trade and investment.

Strait of Hormuz: India's Strategic Priority

Prime Minister Modi used the Abu Dhabi meeting to articulate India's position on the broader West Asia conflict, stressing that keeping the Strait of Hormuz 'free, open and safe' is India's 'highest priority.' He called for strict adherence to international laws, saying, 'The impact of the war-like situation in the West Asia conflict is being felt across the world. India has always given priority to dialogue and diplomacy for resolving issues.'

The Strait of Hormuz is a critical chokepoint through which a significant share of India's crude oil imports transit. Any disruption to navigation there would have direct consequences for India's energy security and inflation outlook — giving Modi's statement both diplomatic and economic dimensions.

India's Offer of Support and the 'Second Home' Sentiment

Modi reaffirmed India's solidarity with the UAE, stating, 'India stands shoulder to shoulder with the UAE in every situation and will continue to do so in the future as well. India is ready to provide every possible support for the restoration of peace and stability at the earliest.'

On a personal note, Modi described the UAE as his 'second home,' and acknowledged the honour of being escorted by UAE Air Force jets upon arrival — a gesture he said was 'an honour to the people of India.' Earlier, upon landing at Abu Dhabi Airport, he posted on social media platform X that he looked forward to discussions on strengthening ties 'across key sectors, such as energy, investment, supply chains, and more.'

What This Visit Signals

The Abu Dhabi visit comes at a moment when West Asia is under significant strain, and India's diplomatic positioning — condemning the attacks on the UAE while calling for dialogue and open sea lanes — reflects a calibrated balancing act. India has historically avoided taking hard sides in Gulf conflicts, but the explicit condemnation of attacks on the UAE marks a notably direct statement. With bilateral trade, energy dependence, and diaspora welfare all in play, New Delhi's engagement with Abu Dhabi carries strategic stakes well beyond the ceremonial.