Recently, the UAE President visited Delhi, India, to meet PM Narendra Modi. And there’s some good news that has been announced by both. Abu Dhabi is set to welcome a major new cultural landmark. During an official visit to India, UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi jointly agreed to establish a House of India in the UAE capital.
House Of India Announced In Abu Dhabi
Went to the airport to welcome my brother, His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE. His visit illustrates the importance he attaches to a strong India-UAE friendship. Looking forward to our discussions.@MohamedBinZayed pic.twitter.com/Os3FRvVrBc
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) January 19, 2026
The decision, confirmed in a joint statement issued by both governments, positions the House of India as a lasting symbol of friendship between India and the UAE. According to a report by Gulf News, the announcement reflects how cultural diplomacy now sits at the centre of bilateral ties.
What Exactly Is the House Of India?
India’s Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri called the decision “very important” during a briefing organised by the Indian Ministry of External Affairs, also referenced by Gulf News.
He explained that the House of India will include a state-of-the-art museum showcasing India’s ancient civilisation, artistic traditions, and cultural depth. High-level sources confirmed that the project will go far beyond a single gallery space. It will accommodate cultural references from India that will be designed to stay relevant for decades.
From ‘India House’ To ‘House of India’
The idea was discussed earlier, but was then referred to the project as “India House”. It was pitched as a global cultural hub based in the UAE. Over time, the scope sharpened, and the name changed. Officials clarified that House of India is the final title, chosen deliberately to avoid confusion with embassy residences.
Momentum picked up in March 2025 when senior officials from both countries met to operationalise the India–UAE Cultural Council. Their focus ranged from creative start-ups to cultural business partnerships and long-term cooperation frameworks.
Also Read: From PM Modi’s Gift To UAE President To Unlimited Breakfast At AED 29 In Dubai, 5 GCC Updates
A New Cultural Landmark Celebrating India–UAE Friendship
The UAE is home to over 4.3 million Indians, making it one of the largest Indian diaspora populations in the world. The House of India to be built in Abu Dhabi will align with this reality.
Beyond exhibitions, the joint statement emphasised youth exchanges and people-to-people initiatives aimed at building cultural understanding from the ground up.
Cover Image Courtesy: Narendra Modi/X
For more such snackable content, interesting discoveries and the latest updates on food, travel and experiences in your city, download the Curly Tales App. Download HERE.
First Published: January 21, 2026 10:19 AM