General Upendra Dwivedi Bolsters India–UAE Defence Partnership During Strategic Visit
India’s Chief of Army Staff (COAS), General Upendra Dwivedi, is on a two-day official visit to the United Arab Emirates (UAE) from January 5, 2026, aimed at deepening bilateral defence cooperation and strengthening military ties between the two nations. The visit underscores the growing strategic partnership and shared commitment to regional security.
Ceremonial Welcome and High-Level Meetings
Upon arrival, General Dwivedi was accorded a Guard of Honour by the UAE Land Forces, reflecting the mutual respect between the two armies. He held significant discussions with Major General Staff Yousef Maayouf Saeed Al Hallami, Commander of the UAE Land Forces, focusing on expanding defence cooperation, military training, and interoperability. The talks emphasized enhancing professional exchanges and joint exercises.
Cultural and Professional Engagement
General Dwivedi also visited the UAE Land Forces Museum, gaining insights into the history and traditions of the Emirati armed forces. This visit highlighted the importance of cultural understanding in fostering stronger military relations.
Building on Joint Military Exercises
The discussions built upon recent cooperative activities, including joint exercises like Desert Cyclone-II, which have improved tactical coordination and interoperability in desert and counter-terrorism operations. These exercises are key to building trust and operational synergy between the forces.
Broader Diplomatic Engagement
In addition to military talks, General Dwivedi met with India’s Ambassador to the UAE, Dr. Deepak Mittal, to discuss broader bilateral relations, including strategic alignment and regional security cooperation. He is also scheduled to address officers at the UAE National Defence College, promoting professional military education and long-term institutional linkages.
Strategic Context and Future Outlook
General Dwivedi’s visit marks the first major foreign military engagement for India’s Army leadership in 2026, signaling New Delhi’s priority to strengthen defence partnerships in West Asia. The visit is part of the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership between India and the UAE, which has seen sustained expansion in recent years through reciprocal visits, joint training, and capability-building discussions.
Next Steps
Following his UAE visit, General Dwivedi will proceed to Sri Lanka from January 7 to 8 for similar engagements, reinforcing India’s commitment to regional security and military diplomacy.
Overall, this high-level visit reinforces defence linkages, trust, and interoperability between India and the UAE, laying a strong foundation for deeper cooperation and shared stability in an evolving regional security landscape.
