India@FDI Magazine

Burj Khalifa in Dubai is lit up in the
colours of the Indian flag on the occasion
of the Republic Day on January 26, 2017
Making it easier for UAE nationals and residents to travel to
India is a great first step in taking bilateral relations to the
next level. We would also welcome any additional measures
that would improve ease of doing business in India, and make
the market more attractive and accessible for UAE-based
companies and investors.
Is there opportunity for Indian investors and
businessmen to invest in Dubai, especially in free zones,
over the coming years?
Dubai has more than 20 free zones which cover a wide range
of sectors and business activities. These economic zones
continue to attract businesses from around the world that
are in search of growth opportunities. This strong appeal
can be attributed to the value-added services that these free
zones provide, as well as the emirate’s world-class logistics
infrastructure, 100% foreign ownership and a simple and
efficient business setup process. Currently, retail, tourism, and
property continue to attract high levels of investment from
Indian and other foreign investors, and this trend looks to
continue in the lead up to Expo 2020.
Are there opportunities in manufacturing and services
in Dubai and other parts of the country?
Dubai’s manufacturing sector is one the key focus areas
of the Dubai Industrial Strategy. This strategy aims to
boost output within the Emirate’s manufacturing sector,
and position Dubai as a preferred manufacturing platform for
global businesses.
A number of policies have been outlined under the
strategy to ensure steady growth in key sectors in an effort
to boost activity and attract more foreign direct investment.
Could you tell us about your recent visit to India
especially Mumbai and Ahmedabad? What are the
agreements that you plan to sign with the government
and public and private sector players?
Our visit to India was part of our Global Business Forum series
roadshow, which has become an important event platform for
engaging with government and business leaders in emerging
markets across the world. We are delighted to bring this
roadshow to India and collaborate with the country’s public
sector players to explore new avenues of cooperation.
India is a major focus of our international expansion
strategy, and we realise the future growth potential that exists
there. By establishing a presence in this massive market, we
can also better assist Indian companies and investors in that
market that want to trade with the UAE, and expand their
footprint in the GCC, Africa and Europe, by leveraging Dubai’s
status as a trade hub.
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