Dubai – The number of Indian residents in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) has surged past the remarkable milestone of 3.5 million, marking a substantial rise of over 130,000 individuals since the conclusion of the year 2022, according to the latest statistics.
The disclosure was made by India’s Minister of State for External Affairs, V Muraleedharan, during a recent session of the Lok Sabha, the lower house of the Indian parliament, held on Saturday. Presenting these figures, Muraleedharan emphasized that the UAE continues to be the preferred destination for Indian citizens seeking employment opportunities abroad.
According to the data provided, the total count of Indians residing in the Emirates currently stands at 3.554 million, reflecting an increase of 3.419 million from the previous year-end figure. This exponential growth underscores the enduring popularity of the UAE among the Indian workforce, as it offers a diverse range of job opportunities across various sectors.
The Gulf region as a whole remains a magnet for Indian talent, boasting a staggering aggregate of 7.93 million Indian expatriates residing in countries including the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Qatar, and Oman. This demographic shift highlights the symbiotic relationship between India and the Gulf nations, where Indian workers contribute significantly to the region’s economic development while simultaneously enhancing their own livelihoods.
Recognizing the need to cater to the growing needs of this mobile workforce, the Indian government has taken proactive steps by establishing Overseas Indian Help Centers in key locations like Dubai, Riyadh, Jeddah, and Kuala Lumpur. These centers are designed to offer essential support services and resources to Indian expatriates, facilitating smoother integration into their new environments and addressing any challenges they may encounter.
As the Indian diaspora in the UAE continues to thrive, the ties between the two nations strengthen further, cementing the significance of their bilateral relationship. The enduring attraction of the UAE as a hub for economic opportunities remains a testament to the shared aspirations and mutual benefits that underscore this remarkable partnership.