The UAE - India Business Council UAE Chapter (UIBC-UC) has taken a major step towards driving trade growth with the signing of a strategic MoU with the Government of Maharashtra (GoM), one of India’s most vibrant states.
The MoU was officially signed at the prestigious "UAE-India: Partnership for Enduring Prosperity" event, held at the Waldorf Astoria, Ras Al Khaimah in the presence of distinguished dignitaries, including HH Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi, Ruler of Ras Al Khaimah, Shri Uday Samant, Hon. Minister of Industries & Marathi Language, and H.E. Mohamed Ali Musabbeh Al Nuaimi, Chairman of RAK Chamber. H.E. Mr. Satish Kumar Sivan, Consul General of India to Dubai and Northern Emirates, gave the welcome address.
The partnership will enhance investment and business by streamlining the process for UAE companies operating in Maharashtra, paving way for cross-border investments. Regular annual exchange of business delegations between the UAE businesses and Maharashtra governments, as well as UIBC-UC members, will strengthen ties and foster new business relationships. Key industries such as manufacturing, tourism, and hospitality, among others, will be prioritized.
A closed-door meeting was also held at the event between Hon. Minister Mr. Uday Samant and UIBC-UC members including H.E. Major General (Retd.) sharafuddin sharaf, Vice Chairman of UIBC-UC and Vice Chairman of Sharaf Group; Mr. Ankur Gupta Board Member of UIBC-UC and Head of Corporate Affairs & Growth, MENA at TATA SONS LIMITED; Mr. Neeraj Teckchandani, CEO of Apparel Group, representing UIBC-UC Board Member Mr. Nilesh Ved; and Mr. Pankaj Khandelwal, CFA, CA, CFO UAE & India of EFS Facilities Services Group (EFS), representing UIBC-UC Board Member Mr. Tariq Chauhan. Kshitij Korde - Head, Corporate Affairs, and Neha Sahni - Specialist – Research & Operations, UIBC-UC were also present at the meeting.
The event also featured plenary sessions on topics such as " Make In India & Make it in the Emirates" and the tourism and hospitality ecosystems in both the UAE and India.
Mr. Faizal Kottikollon, Chairman of UIBC-UC and KEF Holdings remarked, “This MoU marks a major milestone in strengthening the economic relationship between the UAE and India. By working closely with the State of Maharashtra, we aim to unlock new opportunities for trade and investment that will benefit businesses on both sides.”
As Major General (Retd) Sharafuddin Sharaf, said, “This MoU not only reflects growing business ties but also sets the stage for enhanced cooperation, innovation, and cultural exchange between our nations. Together, we will build a more resilient and prosperous future for both.”
