Dubai continues to serve as a gateway to global growth for Indian businesses and investors
A new analysis by Dubai Chamber of Commerce has revealed that Indian businesses have once again topped the list of new non-Emirati companies joining the chamber, underlining the deep-rooted bilateral ties between the two markets. A total of 12,142 Indian companies registered as new members between Q1-Q3 2024, representing impressive year-over-year growth of 52.8% compared to the same period last year.
This surge in business registrations reflects the emirate’s numerous competitive advantages for Indian companies. Dubai’s strategic location, world-class infrastructure, and investor-friendly policies position it as the destination of choice for ambitious Indian entrepreneurs.
The increased number of new Indian companies joining our membership underlines the high levels of trust Indian companies and investors place in Dubai’s business ecosystem, as well as the opportunities that exist to strengthen collaboration and drive mutual growth.
Dubai International Chamber, one of the three chambers operating under the umbrella of Dubai Chambers, has been instrumental in the success of Indian businesses in the emirate. The chamber’s office in Mumbai was established in 2018 and provides comprehensive support to Indian companies seeking to establish a presence in Dubai, providing access to timely market intelligence, trusted partners, and operational expertise.
This office forms part of the chamber’s network of 33 international representative offices, which spans five continents and can assist Indian businesses operating in Dubai with their expansion into new markets across the globe.
Non-oil trade between India and Dubai reached a value of US$ 45.4 billion in 2023.One of the key factors driving growth in trade is the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) signed between India and the UAE in 2022. This transformative agreement has reduced tariffs on over 90% of goods, enhanced market access, and fostered deeper economic cooperation, and is set to boost bilateral non-oil trade to US$100 billion by 2030.
As a global hub for innovation and technology, Dubai is ideally positioned to accelerate progress in future-facing sectors including AI, logistics, fintech, and clean energy. The emirate’s advanced digital and logistics infrastructure, combined with its strategic location at the crossroads of Asia, Europe, and Africa, have established Dubai as a gateway for Indian companies to scale their operations worldwide. Businesses also benefit from a favourable tax regime, streamlined regulatory processes, and access to a diverse global talent pool.
Dubai’s business-friendly environment creates exceptional opportunities for Indian businesses to expand globally. As we continue our efforts to double the size of Dubai’s economy within a decade in line with the goals of the Dubai Economic Agenda (D33), the contributions of Indian businesses and investors will remain critical to achieving our goals.
With its supportive business ecosystem and forward-thinking economic strategies, Dubai remains among the top global destinations for Indian companies. The alignment between the two markets in high-growth sectors sets the stage for a prosperous future, with Indian businesses uniquely positioned to capitalise on the dynamic opportunities emerging in Dubai.
