Indians in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) have reportedly chalked out grand plans to welcome Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who is expected to arrive in Abu Dhabi on 16 August on a two-day official visit.
Narendra Modi's maiden UAE visit holds special diplomatic relevance as it would be the first time since 1981 that an Indian prime minister will be visiting the gulf region. Indira Gandhi was the last Indian prime minister to visit the UAE about 34 years ago.
Though the Indian government is yet to officially confirm the news, Gulf Today said Indians in the UAE already have started make preparations for Modi's visit.
The report said PM Modi will arrive in Abu Dhabi on 16 August, where he will be given a grand welcome. He will visit Dubai the next day. A community reception is also being organised in Dubai on 17 August at the Dubai Cricket Stadium grounds. [For details of the programme and registration visit: www.namoindubai.ae.]
Over 40,000 Indians plan to give a "momentous reception" in honour of the Indian Prime Minister, according to Khaleej Times. There are nearly 2.6 million Indians in the UAE.
During his two-day visit, Modi is expected to hold talks with the UAE government on energy, trade and security.
Political analysts view Modi's visit to the UAE as a balancing act ahead of his much debated visit to Israel later this year.
