Massive ₹2.10 Lakh Crore Projects Signed in Abu Dhabi by Odisha and UAE Partners
On September 10, 2026, the Odisha government, UAE-based International Holding Company (IHC), and the Adani Group signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) in Abu Dhabi to explore 14 proposed projects. These projects carry an indicative investment of approximately ₹2,10,500 crore and hold a potential employment impact of about 8.68 lakh jobs. According to official sources, these figures represent projected potential rather than immediate vacancies, as the projects are currently in the stages of exploration, feasibility, due diligence, approvals, and definitive agreements. The employment estimate includes 1.9 lakh direct or on-site jobs, 4 lakh indirect opportunities, and 2.8 lakh construction-linked positions.
Sectors and Investment Details
The proposed projects span sectors including metal downstream industries, slurry pipelines, critical minerals, rare earths, chemicals, petrochemical derivatives, renewable energy equipment, healthcare, industrial infrastructure, tourism, skill development, sports infrastructure, mining-metals value chains, port-linked development, industrial parks, SEZs, container manufacturing, shipbuilding, repair, agro-food processing, and AI/data-centre related opportunities. Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi led the delegation, highlighting the state's mineral base, infrastructure, and emerging sectors to UAE investors.
Discussions and Future Plans
Discussions held with the Indian Business and Professional Group (IBPG) addressed the deployment of skilled professionals from Odisha to the UAE and the enhancement of exports for commodities like turmeric, ginger, seafood, and processed food. Regarding industrial projects, discussions continued on an integrated aluminium value chain, with land options being explored in Kalyansinghpur, Rayagada district for an alumina refinery, and the Sadar area of Sundargarh district for an aluminium smelter. Additionally, potential for a chemicals downstream complex in partnership with Borouge, linked to Indian Oil Corporation’s proposed naphtha cracker in Paradip, was discussed. Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi’s visit, which included a welcome by Indian Ambassador Dr. Deepak Mittal, concludes with an investors' meet and diaspora interaction on September 11, with the delegation returning to India on September 12. Authorities have warned job seekers to exercise caution against fake recruitment scams, noting that no mass recruitment campaign has been announced, and official hiring timelines will only be determined after project implementation stages.