Abu Dhabi plans to invest up to $2 billion in Maharashtra’s ports and shipbuilding sector, the state’s port and fisheries minister Nitesh Rane said in a post on X on Tuesday.
A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed between the Maharashtra government and Abu Dhabi Ports and Resource Investment Ltd.
“This is the first agreement of its kind between Abu Dhabi Ports and any state government in India underscoring Maharashtra’s global significance,” Rane said.
Under the agreement, provisions have been made for investment across shipbuilding, maritime transport, port infrastructure and water sports management. The initiative aligns with Maharashtra’s long-term plan for blue economy-led growth.
₹56,000 crore investment commitments across maritime projects
The announcement follows a series of MoUs signed on Monday, during which Maharashtra secured investment commitments worth ₹56,000 crore for developing ports, shipyards, clean fuel infrastructure, and water transport in Mumbai.
“It is a proud moment for us as we are developing the maritime ecosystem in the state. The total investment envisaged is ₹56,000 crore, but apart from that there are strategic MoUs in areas of technology and human resources. With these MoUs, we will move towards achieving our aim of making Maharashtra a maritime superpower,” Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis said.
In total, 15 MoUs were signed, with the largest allocation of ₹42,000 crore for the expansion of Dighi Port. JSW Infrastructure Ltd plans to invest ₹3,709 crore in expanding its Jaigad and Dharamtar ports.
Further commitments came from Chowgule Group, Synergy Shipbuilders, and Goa Shipyard to set up shipbuilding facilities in the state.
Partnerships for technology and transport
The state government also signed agreements with IIT Bombay for skilling initiatives and with Swedish firm Candela for passenger water transport projects.
Rane said Maharashtra’s water transport system is being upgraded to improve connectivity for residents. Fadnavis added that several waterways are being developed in and around Mumbai, along with a marina project in the city.
