Crown Prince attends launch of Dubai Chamber’s new office in Bengaluru (VIDEO)
Meets with India’s Minister of Commerce and Industry
DUBAI: His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Defence, and Chairman of The Executive Council of Dubai, has reaffirmed the growing strength of economic ties between Dubai and India.
During an official visit to India, the Crown Prince underscored the dynamic upward trajectory of bilateral trade and investment, supported by strategic leadership and long-standing partnerships.
The visit included the inauguration of Dubai International Chamber’s new international representative office in Bengaluru, a significant milestone under the Dubai Global initiative. His Highness remarked that the new office would serve as a cornerstone for enhanced economic integration, robust business ties, and accelerated growth in the digital economy.
Speaking at a high-level business event hosted by Dubai Chambers in Mumbai, attended by senior executives from both nations, The Crown Prince said, “The opening of Dubai International Chamber’s new office in Bengaluru represents a strategic step that will elevate economic cooperation between Dubai and India. It lays the foundation for a new chapter of economic integration, stronger business partnerships, and the development of the digital economy.”
Hamdan bin Mohammed meets with India’s Minister of Commerce and Industry#WamNews https://t.co/bLdJEodbJ3 pic.twitter.com/aW3W5DKQ8E
— WAM English (@WAMNEWS_ENG) April 9, 2025
He added that the initiative reflects the vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister, and Ruler of Dubai, to build enduring global partnerships that foster sustainable development and mutual growth.
Dubai International Chamber’s new office
The new office in Bengaluru brings the total number of Dubai International Chamber’s international representative offices to 34. This expansion is a direct outcome of the Dubai Global initiative, launched by His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, which aims to establish 50 international offices by 2030. These offices are intended to attract foreign direct investment and support Dubai-based companies in exploring new markets across 30 global economies.
Hamdan bin Mohammed attends launch of Dubai International Chamber’s new office in Bengaluru. The new office will expand Dubai Chambers’ efforts to strengthen business ties with the Indian market and build on the success of its first office in the country, which was launched in… pic.twitter.com/sxqiCVtHPc
— Dubai Media Office (@DXBMediaOffice) April 9, 2025
The initiative reinforces Dubai’s strategic vision to position itself as a global business hub by strengthening international partnerships and enhancing ease of doing business with international markets.
Bengaluru, known as India’s Silicon Valley, was selected for its innovation ecosystem and dynamic economic landscape, particularly in technology and digital services.
The move aligns with Dubai’s ambition to be a key global player in emerging sectors, including fintech, artificial intelligence, and digital transformation – areas that Bengaluru excels in.
Hamdan bin Mohammed in a group photo with Dubai Chambers's delegation on the sidelines of His Highness's official visit to India. pic.twitter.com/eh3EAYBDkY
— Dubai Media Office (@DXBMediaOffice) April 9, 2025
Strengthening strategic dialogue
During his visit, His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum also held a key meeting with Piyush Goyal, India’s Minister of Commerce and Industry. The meeting was part of the broader effort to reinforce the UAE-India Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) and explore additional avenues of cooperation.
Discussions centred on expanding joint efforts in vital sectors such as trade, energy, manufacturing, logistics, healthcare, technology, and investment. His Highness emphasised that the two nations are not only economic partners but also share a shared vision for a future built on trust, innovation, and sustainable growth.
“Our partnership is built on trust, innovation, and a common commitment to shaping resilient, forward-looking economies that advance prosperity and enhance the welfare of the people of the two countries,” said the Crown Prince.
Hamdan bin Mohammed meets with @PiyushGoyal, India’s Minister of Commerce and Industry in Mumbai. The meeting, held as part of His Highness’s official visit to India, reflects the two nations’ efforts to strengthen their strategic economic partnership. Non-oil trade between the… pic.twitter.com/J6yf6DpwPy
— Dubai Media Office (@DXBMediaOffice) April 9, 2025
The talks also explored expanding cooperation in digital infrastructure, payment systems, and smart logistics, along with ways to improve trade facilitation and industrial collaboration. The potential for joint initiatives in artificial intelligence and emerging technologies was also highlighted as a strategic area for future alignment.
The Crown Prince lauded India’s economic transformation, particularly its achievements in digital innovation and inclusive growth, calling them an inspiration for global development models.
The meeting was attended by high-ranking UAE officials, including His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, President of the Dubai Civil Aviation Authority, Chairman of Dubai Airports, and Chairman and Chief Executive of Emirates Airline and Group. Other attendees included Mohammad bin Abdullah Al Gergawi, Minister of Cabinet Affairs; Reem bint Ebrahim Al Hashimy, Minister of State for International Cooperation; Mohamed bin Hadi Al Hussaini, Minister of State for Financial Affairs; Omar bin Sultan Al Olama, Minister of State for Artificial Intelligence, Digital Economy, and Remote Work Applications; and Dr. Abdulnasser Jamal Al Shaali, UAE Ambassador to India.
UAE-India trade
Non-oil trade between the UAE and India grew significantly in 2024, increasing by 20.5 percent to surpass Dh240 billion, compared to Dh199.3 billion in 2023. The Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA), signed in 2022, aims to elevate non-oil trade to USD 100 billion by 2030, reinforcing both nations’ economic ambitions.
The Bilateral Investment Treaty (BIT) also came under discussion as both countries seek to bolster investment flows and supply chain resilience. The emphasis on digital trade platforms and logistical connectivity is set to further integrate the two economies in a seamless and innovation-driven manner.