The number of Indian companies registered with the Abu Dhabi Chamber of Commerce and Industry has continued to rise, reflecting stronger economic ties and growing investor confidence in the emirate.
Abu Dhabi Chamber membership growth
The Chamber reported that Indian company memberships recorded a compound annual growth rate of 38.4 percent between 2019 and 2024. In 2024 alone, 3,375 new Indian firms joined, marking a 31.1 percent increase from the previous year.
As of September 2025, the Chamber has 17,457 active Indian members, making India the second largest business community within its membership.
Economic ties
Chamber officials said the growth follows the momentum created by the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement, which took effect in 2022 and has supported greater trade and investment flows.
Shamis Khalfan Al Dhaheri, the second Vice Chairman and Managing Director of the Abu Dhabi Chamber, said: “The rapid increase in Indian company memberships reflects rising confidence in the strength of our economy and the clarity of Abu Dhabi’s investment proposition. It also demonstrates the trust of Indian businesses in the emirate’s advanced infrastructure and its ability to provide high quality opportunities for growth and regional expansion. Abu Dhabi is consolidating its status as a global hub for business and investment.”
He added that India remains a key trade and investment partner and said ongoing initiatives will support growth in advanced industries, biotechnology, energy, and food and water sectors.
Sector activity
Indian companies in Abu Dhabi operate across a wide range of fields. Wholesale and retail trade accounts for 45 percent of memberships, followed by construction at 14 percent. Other active sectors include professional services, hospitality, manufacturing, transport, information technology and real estate.
The Chamber said this spread of activity highlights Abu Dhabi’s diversified economy. Non-oil trade between Abu Dhabi and India grew 94 percent in 2024.
Chamber role
Ali Mohamed Al Marzooqi, Director-General of the Abu Dhabi Chamber, said: “Indian enterprises are integral to Abu Dhabi’s growth story. The rise in memberships is a clear vote of confidence in our pro enterprise policies, modern infrastructure and open access to regional and global markets. Through the Chamber we provide integrated services that turn ambition into action; from company set up and licensing to standards and certification, supplier development, export readiness and partnership platforms. We welcome more Indian companies to build from Abu Dhabi and scale with confidence.”
The Chamber said it will continue offering services and market access initiatives to support the expansion of Indian businesses and strengthen Abu Dhabi’s position as a global destination for enterprise.
tanvir@dubainewsweek.com
