Watch |UAE's F-16 jet escorts PM Modi's aircraft on arrival in Abu Dhabi

Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s aircraft was escorted by United Arab Emirates Air Force F-16 fighter jets after entering the Gulf nation’s airspace on Friday.

According to state-run WAM news agency, a formation of military aircraft received the Prime Minister’s plane as it entered UAE airspace. “The squadron leader requested permission to escort the aircraft to the airport in a gesture of welcome,” the report said.

Modi began a six-day tour on Friday covering the UAE and four European countries — the Netherlands, Sweden, Norway and Italy.

During his meeting with UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Modi said, “The way your air force escorted me today is an honour for the people of India. For quite some time, we had been speaking over the phone, but I was eager to meet you personally. I am very happy to meet you today,” according to a post shared by the BJP’s official X handle.

Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed personally received Modi on his arrival, underlining the close ties and friendship between the two nations.

“I extend my thanks to my brother, His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the United Arab Emirates, for his gracious gesture in receiving me at Abu Dhabi Airport. And I look forward to our discussions aimed at strengthening the ties between India and the UAE across key sectors, such as energy, investment, supply chains, and more,” Modi said in a social media post.

Modi, who arrived in the UAE as part of the first leg of his five-nation tour, was also accorded a ceremonial welcome at the airport.