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Home / Features / 300,000-Strong Gujarati Community In The UAE Gears Up To Boost $3.4bln UAE Investment Into Gujarat Economy

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300,000-Strong Gujarati Community In The UAE Gears Up To Boost $3.4bln UAE Investment Into Gujarat Economy

The UAE’s US$3.4 billion (Dh12.47 billion) investment into India’s western Gujarat state has inspired the 300,000-strong Non-Resident Gujarati community members in the UAE to strengthen their network by creating Gujarati Samaj and Vyapar Junction – to community and business-focussed groups in the UAE – that plans to help strengthen economic relations.

Gujarat is a highly industrialised state in India, driven by manufacturing, high exports, and robust cargo handling. The Gross State Domestic Product (GSDP) stands above In ₹24.6 trillion US$260 billion), with per capita income crossing ₹300,000, positioning the region as a primary economic powerhouse in the country.

Dubai’s DP World is investing US$3 billion in the state’s ports, free zones and logistics to create a new economic gateway for India that will help Indian economy to grow faster. Last month, Lulu Group announced a IN₹40 billion (US$400 million) investment to develop a large shopping mall, a five-star hotel and serviced apartments in the state that will cater to a growing urban population seeking better retail experience.

Abdulla bin Touq Al Marri, UAE Minister of Economy and Tourism, said, the state boasts an integrated ecosystem encompassing ports, industry, food processing, renewable energy, logistics, and entrepreneurship.

“Gujarat serves as a crucial focal point for the next phase of the UAE-India Economic Corridor, offering promising opportunities to strengthen cooperation in resilient supply chains, advanced manufacturing, food security, financial services, and tourism,” he said.

The total number of Indian companies operating in the UAE reached 290,222 by the end of H1 2026, reflecting a 16.7 per cent growth compared to the same period in 2025, many of them owned by members of the Gujarati community.

Yusuff Ali M.A., Chairman, Lulu Group, said, “We have announced a IN₹40 billion (Dh1.53 billion) investment project to come up with a modern shopping mall, 5-star hotel and furnished residential

apartments in an area of nearly 21 acres of land that we have recently acquired in Ahmedabad. The project is expected to provide more than 15,000 jobs to residents of the state. In addition to this, we are also initiating for a Food Park as well as planning for a Fish-processing plant.”

Gujarati Samaj UAE is a not-for-profit community organisation that brings together more than 300,000 Gujarati community members of the Indian community residing across the UAE. It is dedicated to serving the community through social, professional, and cultural initiatives. The organization was established in 2022 with an initial membership of 16 individuals. Since then, it has experienced remarkable growth and, as of 2026, has expanded to a vibrant community of more than 28,000 members.

The primary objectives of Gujarati Samaj UAE are to support community members during challenging times by providing guidance and assistance in dealing with various government-related matters; to help individuals secure suitable employment opportunities; to promote social unity by celebrating Indian and UAE national festivals and cultural events and to strengthen community networking and foster mutual support among members.

Priteesh Patel, Founder of Gujarati Samaj in the UAE and Chairman of Akshar Holdings, says, “Gujarati’s are a vibrant and resourceful community in the UAE. As the economic relationship between the UAE and the state of Gujarat strengthens, we are also gearing up to realign our resources to enhance the socio-economic relationship by promoting trade, investment and employment.

“The Gujarati community has been part of the UAE society and economy for a long time. We have invested significant resources in the UAE and we plant to do more. Similarly, we also plan to invest in Gujarat – along with the UAE investors in industrial development, logistics, start-ups and fintechs.

“Our community can play a large role in helping both the economies. We would also like to collaborate with the Government of Gujarat in organising investment conferences and exhibitions.”

Approximately 60 per cent of Gujaratis in the UAE are business owners, representing a diverse range of industries and contributing significantly to the UAE’s economic growth. In addition to entrepreneurs, a large number of Gujarati professionals hold key positions in leading multinational corporations, government entities, and private organizations across the UAE.

Gujarati Samaj UAE aims to expand its membership to over 100,000 members in the coming years, creating one of the strongest and most connected Indian community organizations in the region. It is actively working to strengthen trade and business relations between India and the UAE. Its strategic initiatives include: Promoting bilateral trade across multiple sectors; Facilitating business opportunities between Indian and UAE companies; Creating greater employment opportunities for Gujaratis seeking careers in the UAE.

Its business networking platform Vyapar Junction UAE is helping business connectivity. Vyapar Junction UAE, is a place where entrepreneurs, business owners, and professionals meet to exchange ideas, build relationships, and explore new business opportunities.

Gujarati Samaj UAE is launching its official mobile application, which is expected to become a comprehensive digital platform for the community. The app will provide: community updates and

announcements; business and professional networking; access to government-related information and resources; employment opportunities.

The application is designed to become the central hub for information, networking, and community engagement for Gujarati’s throughout the Emirates.

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