Indo-Arab Relations

India’s relation with the Arabian Peninsula or Gulf region dates back to antiquity. It may even be claimed that relations are as old as the history itself. There are a lot of historical evidences for this time-tested cultural tie up. The Old Testament bears ample evidence for maritime mercantile relations between India and the Arab world during Solomon’s period. Arabs’ Indian connection predates the spread of Islam. There is commonly held view that from about 2500 years ago, the lands of West Asia and North Africa, stretching from Egypt to Iran had traded regularly with Indus Valley. The Arabs have contributed even to the naming of this region, Hindustan. The spread of Islam fostered this linkage tremendously. From the time immemorial these two civilizations have been in constant contact with the exchange of goods, ideas, cultures and people of each other. India, throughout the ages, has enjoyed cordial relations with the Arab world and has enriched each other’s culture and civilization.