In a powerful display of economic diplomacy, Dubai Chambers wrapped up the Dubai–India Business Forum in Mumbai today, setting the stage for a new era of trade, investment, and cross-border collaboration between two of the world’s fastest-growing economies.
The forum, held during the official visit of H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, brought together over 200 senior officials and investors, including a high-powered delegation of 39 prominent Dubai business leaders.
The event comes three years after the signing of the landmark Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) between the UAE and India and is a clear sign that bilateral ties are not only strong — they’re accelerating.
“Dubai and India share an exceptional relationship built on mutual trust and a commitment to economic integration,” said Ahmad bin Byat, Vice Chairman of Dubai Chambers. “The value of non-oil trade between our markets exceeded AED142 billion during the first nine months of 2024, achieving year-over-year growth of 19 percent.”
India now ranks #1 for foreign businesses registered with the Dubai Chamber of Commerce, with a staggering 72,651 active Indian companies by March 2025 — and that number is growing fast. In Q1 2025 alone, 4,563 new Indian firms joined the chamber, reflecting 16.2% growth compared to the same period last year.
“Dubai holds a strategic position for Indian companies as a preferred investment destination due to its unique competitive advantages. Indian investors form a key part of Dubai’s business landscape, with 72,651 active Indian companies registered as members of the Dubai Chamber of Commerce by the end of March 2025,” Mohammad Ali Rashed Lootah, President and CEO of Dubai Chambers, said.
Held in the heart of India’s financial capital, the Dubai–India Business Forum focused on identifying high-growth sectors and unlocking new strategic partnerships. Discussions ranged from bilateral trade flows to joint ventures, with a sharp focus on long-term growth and global expansion.
A high-impact panel session brought together major voices from both nations, including:
- Mohammad Ali Rashed Lootah, CEO, Dubai Chambers
- R Mukundan, VP, Confederation of Indian Industry
- Adeeb Ahamed, Chair, FICCI-Arab Council
- Anant Singhania, Past President, IMC Chamber of Commerce
The panel tackled how Dubai and India can remain resilient amid shifting global dynamics — and why Dubai’s infrastructure, regulatory landscape, and strategic location make it a top-tier hub for Indian expansion.
As Dubai Chambers continues its global outreach mission, the Mumbai forum stands as a testament to the deepening economic synergy between Dubai and India — and a bold commitment to turning opportunity into shared prosperity.
