Archive · 16 Jan 2026
India Losing Gulf Influence to China, Pakistan
India has been a significant player in the Gulf region for a long time, with strong trade ties and a large diaspora.
However, China and Pakistan are now increasing their influence in the area.
China is investing heavily in the Gulf, not just in trade but also in helping with green energy and mediating conflicts.
Pakistan, despite its economic struggles, has strong military ties with Gulf countries and is expanding its security role.
India, on the other hand, has chosen to stay out of military and political conflicts in the region, focusing instead on trade and maintaining good relations.
This approach has kept India's interests safe but has also limited its influence compared to China and Pakistan.
As the Gulf region becomes more diverse in its alliances, India may need to take bolder steps to maintain its position.
India's influence in the Gulf is primarily economic and transactional, with strong trade ties and a large diaspora.
China is expanding its influence through significant investments, green energy support, and mediation in regional conflicts.
Pakistan is leveraging its military and security partnerships to increase its influence in the Gulf, despite economic challenges.
India's non-interventionist approach has protected its immediate interests but has also limited its geopolitical leverage.
The Gulf region is diversifying its alliances, potentially reducing India's relative influence.
- Who
- India, China, Pakistan, GCC countries (UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Kuwait, Bahrain, Oman)
- What
- Shifting influence and strategic dynamics in the Gulf region
- When
- Ongoing, with recent developments in 2023-2025
- Where
- Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries and Iran
- Why
- Due to China's economic and strategic investments, Pakistan's military and security partnerships, and India's non-interventionist approach
- GCC Countries
- UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Kuwait, Bahrain, Oman
- India-GCC Trade
- $62 billion
- Indian Diaspora in GCC
- 9-10 million
- Remittances from GCC to India
- $38-50 billion annually
- GCC's Share of India's Crude Oil Imports
- 35-40%
- GCC's Share of India's LNG Requirements
- 70%
- China-GCC Trade Projection by 2028
- $375 billion
- Pakistan-GCC Remittances
- $38 billion annually