While details like the exact spot, design, and opening date are not yet public, this project promises to strengthen their friendship even further
India and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) are teaming up to create a new cultural centre called the House of India in Abu Dhabi. Leaders from both nations announced this during UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan’s recent visit to India. They see it as a permanent sign of the strong bond between the two countries.
Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri called the project “very important.” He explained it will be more than just an art museum. Instead, it will offer a modern space to showcase India’s ancient culture and history. High-level sources say it will include galleries, exhibits, and other features to highlight Indian heritage.
The idea has been in the works for a while. Talks picked up in March 2025, when officials from both sides met to plan a cultural council and support creative projects like start-ups and business links. They decided on the name “House of India” to avoid confusion with embassy buildings, often called India House.
This centre will celebrate the huge Indian community in the UAE—over 4.3 million people. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi thanked the UAE President for supporting these expats. Both leaders also pledged more youth exchanges to build cultural ties.
India and the UAE already share a rich history and work together on arts, education, heritage, and more. For example, the UAE will lend artefacts to India’s National Maritime Heritage Complex in Lothal.
