Gulf investors eye India’s AI and space tech

Dubai-based Gulf investors, particularly the non-resident Indian diaspora, are showing interest in India's artificial intelligence (AI) and space technology sectors. Despite a subdued overall interest in Indian investments due to currency depreciation and a move towards dollar-denominated assets, wealth managers in the region report a strong demand for AI-focused businesses.

Data center operator Yotta recently held a successful roadshow in Dubai, attracting both NRI diaspora and local families, with a potential $30-35 million commitment from Gulf investors. Yotta, which raised $150 million in 2023, is preparing to file its draft red herring prospectus (DRHP) for a planned listing in Q1 2027. Similarly, Pixxel Space Technologies, an Indian space technology startup, is exploring fundraising opportunities in the UAE, capitalizing on the strong investor appetite for AI in India.

The Reserve Bank of India's FCNR(B) window attracted about $133 billion, driven by sentiment and the dollar window, while the Indian rupee has depreciated by 5.87% against the US dollar in 2026. Despite the challenges in the broader Indian market, there remains a significant interest in AI and technology among Gulf investors, with emerging sectors becoming increasingly accessible through offshore fund vehicles.