Dubai Chambers Explores Investment Opportunities At Dubai-India Business Forum In Mumbai

The Dubai–India Business Forum recently concluded in Mumbai, organised by Dubai Chambers. This event coincided with H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum's visit to India. The forum aimed to boost strategic economic opportunities between the two regions and attracted over 200 senior officials and investors, including a delegation of 39 notable business leaders from Dubai.

The forum took place three years after the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) was signed between the UAE and India on 18th February 2022. This agreement marked the UAE's first bilateral deal under its CEPA programme, reflecting strong momentum in their bilateral relations. Discussions at the forum centred on enhancing trade and investment ties between Dubai and India, identifying opportunities for new joint ventures, and forming strategic partnerships.

Ahmad bin Byat, Vice Chairman of Dubai Chambers, highlighted the exceptional relationship between Dubai and India during his opening remarks. He stated, "Dubai and India share an exceptional relationship built on mutual trust and a commitment to economic integration. India holds an important position as a key trading partner for Dubai. 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."

Mohammad Ali Rashed Lootah, President and CEO of Dubai Chambers, emphasised Dubai's appeal as an investment destination for Indian companies due to its competitive advantages. He noted that by March 2025, there were 72,651 active Indian companies registered with the Dubai Chamber of Commerce. Additionally, in Q1 2025 alone, 4,563 new Indian companies joined the chamber, showing a year-over-year growth of 16.2 percent.

The forum featured a panel discussion with Mohammad Ali Rashed Lootah alongside R Mukundan from the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII), Adeeb Ahamed from FICO - Arab Council, and Anant Singhania from IMC Chamber of Commerce and Industry. The session explored future prospects for trade and investment between Dubai and India amid global economic changes.

The panel also discussed how businesses could leverage Dubai's position as a leading trade hub to expand internationally. They examined ways to enhance bilateral cooperation in economic matters while highlighting Dubai's role as a strategic launchpad for Indian companies aiming for international expansion.

Strengthening Bilateral Ties

Lootah further remarked on organising the forum in Mumbai as a testament to strengthening cooperation between both markets' business communities. He said it provides a unique platform to deepen economic ties by exploring potential joint investments and innovative ideas that support long-term commercial partnerships.

The event aligns with Dubai Chambers' goals of boosting strategic economic partnerships globally while enhancing cross-border trade. It aims to create new investment opportunities locally and internationally by identifying fresh avenues for business between Dubai and key global markets.

This forum underscores the commitment to fostering robust economic ties between Dubai and India through collaborative efforts across various sectors. By focusing on mutual development goals, both regions aim to achieve sustainable growth in their respective economies.

With inputs from WAM