Abu Dhabi to invest $2B in Maharashtra ports, shipbuilding

By Admin

30 Oct, 2025

In a landmark development that highlights Maharashtra’s growing maritime ambitions, Abu Dhabi has announced plans to invest up to $2 billion in the state’s ports and shipbuilding sector. The announcement was made by Maharashtra’s Port and Fisheries Minister, Nitesh Rane, who shared the news in a post on X on Tuesday.

Strengthening India-UAE Maritime Ties

The investment will be formalized through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed between the Maharashtra government and Abu Dhabi Ports and Resource Investment Ltd. According to Rane, this is the first-ever agreement between Abu Dhabi Ports and any state government in India, a milestone that underscores Maharashtra’s growing global significance in maritime development.

Boosting the Blue Economy

Under the agreement, Abu Dhabi’s investment will span across shipbuilding, maritime transport, port infrastructure, and water sports management, aligning with Maharashtra’s long-term vision for blue economy-led growth. The collaboration aims to transform the state into a key hub for sustainable maritime innovation and economic growth.

₹56,000 Crore Maritime Investment Commitments

This announcement follows a series of investment commitments worth ₹56,000 crore signed on Monday, focusing on developing ports, shipyards, clean fuel infrastructure, and water transport in Mumbai. Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis expressed pride in the state’s progress, stating, “It is a proud moment for us as we are developing the maritime ecosystem in the state. With these MoUs, we will move towards achieving our aim of making Maharashtra a maritime superpower.”

Major Investments in Port Development

Among the 15 MoUs signed, the largest allocation ₹42,000 crore has been earmarked for Dighi Port expansion. JSW Infrastructure Ltd has committed ₹3,709 crore for the development of its Jaigad and Dharamtar ports, while Chowgule Group, Synergy Shipbuilders, and Goa Shipyard have pledged to establish new shipbuilding facilities across Maharashtra.

Collaborations in Technology and Transport

To further strengthen the maritime ecosystem, the state government has entered into partnerships with IIT Bombay for skilling and training initiatives, and with Swedish firm Candela for passenger water transport projects. According to Rane, Maharashtra’s water transport system is undergoing modernization to improve connectivity and convenience for residents. Chief Minister Fadnavis added that new waterways and a marina project are being developed in and around Mumbai to boost tourism and transport efficiency.

Paving the Way for a Maritime Superpower

With the entry of Abu Dhabi’s $2 billion investment and multiple domestic partnerships, Maharashtra is positioning itself as a leading maritime hub in India, driving innovation, employment, and infrastructure growth. These initiatives mark a significant step toward realizing the state’s vision of becoming a global maritime powerhouse.