The Dubai–India Business Forum, hosted by Dubai Chambers in Mumbai on April 8, concluded successfully with a strong focus on enhancing economic collaboration. Held alongside the official visit of H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, the forum showcased the expanding trade and investment relationship between India and the UAE.
Over 200 Leaders Explore Bilateral Opportunities Amid Growing Economic Momentum
Organized to build on the momentum following the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) signed in February 2022, the forum attracted over 200 senior officials and investors, including a 39-member business delegation from Dubai. It aimed to identify promising avenues for joint ventures and long-term partnerships, tapping into the robust economic fundamentals of both nations.
In his address, Ahmad bin Byat, Vice Chairman of Dubai Chambers, emphasized the growing trade volume. “India holds an important position as a key trading partner for Dubai,” he said. “Non-oil trade between our markets surpassed AED 142 billion during the first nine months of 2024, reflecting a 19% year-on-year growth.”
Participants exchanged insights on capitalizing on the competitive strengths of both economies to expand cross-border commerce. Key focus areas included infrastructure, innovation, sustainability, and fintech. These dialogues underscored the shared vision of boosting bilateral trade through targeted strategies and economic cooperation.
Indian Companies Lead Foreign Business Growth in Dubai
Highlighting the strong business presence, Mohammad Ali Rashed Lootah, President and CEO of Dubai Chambers, shared that Indian investors are the largest foreign business group in Dubai. As of March 2025, there were 72,651 active Indian companies registered with the Dubai Chamber of Commerce. Additionally, 4,563 new Indian firms joined in Q1 2025, a 16.2% year-on-year increase.
Lootah emphasized that Dubai’s appeal as a global investment destination continues to grow, particularly among Indian entrepreneurs. “The forum in Mumbai reflects our long-term commitment to reinforcing business ties and discovering new investment channels,” he noted.
A key highlight was a panel discussion featuring Lootah, R. Mukundan (Vice President, CII), Adeeb Ahamed (Chair, FICCI-Arab Council), and Anant Singhania (IMC Chamber of Commerce). The session delved into international expansion opportunities for Indian firms, with Dubai positioned as a launchpad for global growth.
By providing a strategic platform to foster mutual understanding, the Dubai–India Business Forum reaffirmed Dubai Chambers’ goal of expanding cross-border economic collaboration and positioning Dubai as a critical partner for India’s outward investment journey.
