Indian businesses are deepening their footprint in the UAE capital as the Abu Dhabi Chamber of Commerce and Industry reports a steep rise in Indian-company memberships, growing at a compound annual rate of 38.4% between 2019 and 2024. This surge reflects the strongest period of Indian entrepreneurial expansion in the emirate to date, underscoring how Abu Dhabi has evolved into one of the most attractive destinations for foreign investors across sectors.
According to the Chamber, 2024 proved to be a pivotal year. A total of 3,375 new Indian firms were added to its roster, marking a year-on-year growth of 31.1%. This expansion pushed the total number of active Indian-company members to 17,457 by September 2025, positioning India as one of the strongest and most dynamic business communities represented in Abu Dhabi.
Officials highlight the UAE–India Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) — implemented in 2022 — as a major driver of this growth. CEPA significantly reduced trade barriers, streamlined customs procedures, and opened broader investment pathways. These structural advantages have made Abu Dhabi an increasingly compelling base for Indian entrepreneurs looking to scale into GCC, MENA, and global markets.
Chamber executives said the surge reflects a clear rise in investor confidence. Abu Dhabi’s pro-business regulations, robust infrastructure, strategic geographic positioning, and diversified economic agenda have made it ideal for mid-sized enterprises, SMEs, and established Indian corporates alike. Many companies see the emirate not just as a regional gateway but as a long-term headquarters for expansion.
Industry representation among Indian firms is notably diverse. Approximately 45% of registered firms operate within wholesale and retail trade, while construction accounts for around 14%. The remaining members span a broad spectrum — including hospitality, information technology, manufacturing, real estate, logistics, transport, professional consultancy, and administrative support — illustrating a strong, multi-sector presence.
The rise in memberships coincides with a parallel acceleration in cross-border trade. Non-oil trade between Abu Dhabi and India recorded a sharp 94% rise in 2024, signaling rapidly strengthening economic ties. This momentum has been reinforced by government initiatives aimed at supporting private-sector growth, innovation, digital transformation, and entrepreneurship.
Chamber officials note that Indian businesses also benefit from a wide suite of institutional support — from business setup and licensing assistance to supplier development programs, export-readiness training, and sector-specific advisory. These services, combined with Abu Dhabi’s continued economic diversification efforts, have created fertile ground for Indian investors to grow, scale, and enter new markets.
As Abu Dhabi positions itself as a global economic hub, the growing participation of Indian enterprises underscores a relationship built on long-term economic alignment, shared growth priorities, and expanding business synergies.
