- Saudi Arabia and India signed a $100 billion agreement covering energy, infrastructure, defence, technology, and culture.
- Officials reported that the deal includes $50bn in green energy and petrochemicals, $20bn in infrastructure, $15bn in defence, $10bn in tech, and $5bn in cultural cooperation.
Saudi Arabia and India have signed a $100 billion agreement, redefining their bilateral ties and signalling a new phase of global cooperation. Officials confirmed that this deal spans energy, infrastructure, defence, technology, and culture sectors deemed critical to both nations’ strategic ambitions.
Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi finalised the deal during a high-level meeting. Authorities reported that the leaders agreed to elevate their nations’ partnership, describing the move as a monumental step towards forging a powerful Indo-Gulf alliance.
Saudi Arabia pledged $50 billion towards petrochemicals and green energy. This includes funding two large-scale oil refineries in India to enhance the country’s energy infrastructure.
Moreover, Saudi energy giants SABIC and Aramco will invest in hydrogen energy projects, marking a shift toward sustainable energy collaboration. The two nations also agreed to conduct a joint feasibility study on establishing an electricity grid connecting India and Saudi Arabia, potentially enabling a long-term, cross-border energy exchange.
Infrastructure and manufacturing will receive a significant $20 billion investment. Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF) will finance key projects, including Indian ports and metro systems. A central focus of this initiative is the Bharat Mobility Corridor, a transformative transportation network designed to modernise India’s logistics and connectivity.
Additionally, as part of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, over 40 Indian companies will set up regional headquarters within the Kingdom, fostering bilateral economic activity and employment opportunities.
A $15 billion allocation is also strengthening defence and security collaboration. The formation of a new Defence Cooperation Committee will steer joint efforts, including military exercises and strategic coordination.
The agreement also covers the joint development and manufacturing of drones, reflecting the growing emphasis on shared technological advancement and national security.
Technology, artificial intelligence, and space exploration constitute another critical pillar of the partnership, with $10 billion directed towards innovation-driven collaboration. Saudi Arabia’s venture capital will support Indian startups in AI and biotechnology, fuelling innovation in rapidly evolving sectors.
Four Memorandums of Understanding have already been signed in the space sector, laying the groundwork for future cooperation in satellite technology and space missions. Other areas of collaboration will include postal services and anti-doping technologies.
Furthermore, the cultural component of the agreement accounts for $5 billion. Saudi Arabia has agreed to increase the Hajj quota for Indian pilgrims by 10%, allowing 175,025 Indians to travel annually. The Kingdom will invest in Bollywood productions to strengthen cultural and entertainment ties.
Both countries will embark on joint restoration projects to preserve historical and cultural heritage sites, reinforcing a shared commitment to cultural diplomacy.