The visit is highlighting New Delhi's concern over the welfare of migrant workers involved in the construction industry in the United Arab Emirates (UAE).

According to embassy figures, about 2.6 million Indians live and work in the UAE, 60 percent of whom are blue-collar workers.

Modi's first visit on Sunday was to the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi. It was seen as a conciliatory gesture following allegations he had done nothing to save Indian Muslims during riots in 2002 when hundreds of people died.

On Monday Modi is scheduled to take part in a public event in Dubai with 40,000 Indian expatriates expected to attend.

Modi also visited a labor camp in Abu Dhabi on Sunday. About 200 workers applauded him as he arrived at an indoor basketball court at the center in the Industrial City of Abu Dhabi.

The visit was to highlight New Delhi's concern about the welfare of its migrant workers in the oil-rich Gulf state's construction industry. "The Indian government is aware that the UAE will employ thousands of Indian workers to organize the World Expo 2020, but after the recent Qatar experience, the government wants to send a clear message that India will not allow rampant exploitation of its workers," an Indian government official said.

In November, India began a campaign for higher wages for its workers in the Gulf states.

Modi is due to meet Abu Dhabi Crown Prince Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed al-Nahyan and Dubai ruler Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, who is also the UAE prime minister. Part of the visit is aimed at increasing investment in India and expanding co-operation within the energy sector.

"The orientation of the Gulf countries has always been towards US and Europe, but the prime minister wants to highlight the benefits of investing in India and he wants to engage Abu Dhabi on long-term projects," the government official said.

jm/bw (Reuters, AP)