Indian founders seem to have discovered greener pastures in the City of Gold as 9,000 firms set up shops in Dubai in the first six months of this year alone.

The Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) signed between India and the UAE in 2022, which was laid out to reshape the economic corridor between the two nations, has been a significant factor in this gold rush.

By lowering tariffs on most goods, easing non-tariff barriers and providing clearer rules for services and digital trade, the CEPA has cut down on the entry cost and given the Indian firms better predictability when planning cross-border ventures.

The impact is evident: non-oil trade between India and Dubai surpassed AED 193 Bn in 2024, cementing the city’s role as a hub for Indian businesses and digital economy players.

Dubai’s geographical advantage as a strategic outpost is supported by an agile policy framework. Sitting at the Asian gateway to Africa and Europe, it offers direct access to wider global markets. Add favourable tax regime, simplified visa processes and pro-business regulations to that. It is no wonder that Dubai has turned into a magnet for Indian startups aiming for global expansion.

At the core of this bustling India-Dubai corridor stands Dubai Chamber of Digital Economy, one of the three chambers operating under the umbrella of Dubai Chambers. The chamber has seamlessly integrated itself into the cross-border business ecosystem and is instrumental in attracting global digital companies and talent, supporting the development of world-class digital infrastructure and advancing the interests of tech firms.

Agreements signed by Dubai Chambers with Indian industry bodies such as the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII), the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI), and the IMC Chamber of Commerce and Industry, have also established channels for greater collaboration – from data sharing........

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