India’s engagement with the Middle East has evolved through the lenses of historical trade routes—the Silk Road and the Spice Route. While the ancient Silk Road symbolized China’s dominance in trade networks stretching across Eurasia, India’s Spice Route played a crucial role in maritime trade, linking the Indian subcontinent with the Arab world, Africa, and Europe. In contemporary geopolitics, India is recalibrating its strategy to balance China’s ambitious Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) by deepening its economic and strategic ties with Middle Eastern nations. India’s evolving approach focuses on economic partnerships, energy security, and connectivity projects like the Chabahar Port in Iran, which serves as a counter to China’s growing influence in the region. Unlike China’s debt-driven infrastructure investments under the BRI, India’s engagement emphasizes mutual cooperation, capacity building, and sustainable economic partnerships. The signing of agreements with Gulf nations, increasing trade ties, and defense collaborations highlight India’s strategic pivot in the region. As India continues to expand its presence in the Middle East, balancing historical trade routes with modern strategic initiatives will be key. The integration of infrastructure, technology, and diplomatic efforts will define India’s future role in this dynamic geopolitical landscape. “Silk Road vs. Spice Route: India’s Evolving Strategy in the Middle East” examines India’s strategic approach in countering China’s Belt and Road Initiative while strengthening economic and geopolitical ties in the region.