Indian Businesses Look to UAE as Springboard for Global Expansion at FICCI Forum in Bengaluru
Bengaluru, October 10, 2025: *The Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI) is spearheading a major initiative to propel Indian businesses onto the world stage by leveraging the strategic advantages of the United Arab Emirates. A two-day series of B2B meetings, inaugurated today at the ITC Gardenia Hotel, is connecting Indian companies with key UAE trade entities to facilitate international growth.*
Gateway to Global Markets
Held under the theme “Expand Your Business in International Markets through UAE,” the event underscores the UAE’s pivotal role as a commercial hub. A central focus is the Sharjah Airport International Free Zone (SAIF Zone), which is being presented to Indian exporters and manufacturers as a dynamic, investor-friendly base for operations.
The forum provides a platform for direct, one-on-one interactions between Indian business leaders and representatives from the SAIF Zone. These meetings are designed to offer detailed insights into the investment prospects, operational support, and simplified processes for establishing a presence in the UAE.
Leveraging the India-UAE CEPA Advantage
A key driver for this initiative is the India-UAE Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA). The agreement, which came into force last year, has already significantly boosted bilateral trade. The event is educating participants on how to capitalize on its provisions, particularly the duty-free access granted to nearly 97 percent of Indian exports.
This preferential access not only deepens ties with the UAE market itself but also strengthens India’s economic reach into secondary markets in Africa, Europe, and beyond, using the UAE’s well-established global logistics and trade networks.
A Conducive Environment for Growth
The initiative highlights the specific benefits of the SAIF Zone, which is being promoted as an ideal launchpad for small and medium enterprises (SMEs) aiming for international scale. The zone offers 100 percent foreign ownership, full repatriation of capital and profits, and zero corporate and personal income taxes.
“This is a strategic move to empower Indian businesses, particularly our vibrant SME sector, with the tools and knowledge to compete internationally,” a FICCI spokesperson noted. “The UAE, and specifically hubs like the SAIF Zone, provide the ideal ecosystem for Indian companies to minimize risk and maximize their global footprint.”
*Media Updates: +91-93531 21474 [WhatsApp] | indianowme@gmail.com*
Practical Steps for Participants
The B2B meetings offer a practical, hands-on approach to international expansion. Indian companies are receiving tailored advice on navigating the setup process in the UAE, understanding local regulatory frameworks, and identifying new market opportunities.
“Our goal is to demystify the process of going global,” a representative from the affiliated chamber FKCCI stated. “By facilitating these direct dialogues, we are bridging the gap between ambition and action, enabling Indian businesses to make informed decisions with confidence.”
While participation in the event is free, prior registration is mandatory due to limited slots. Interested businesses are advised to contact the FKCCI office for registration and meeting confirmation. The event concludes tomorrow, October 11, 2025.
Impactful Quotes
-
On Strategic Vision: “This initiative is a strategic move to empower Indian businesses, particularly our vibrant SME sector, with the tools and knowledge to compete internationally. The UAE provides the ideal ecosystem to minimize risk and maximize global footprint.”
-
On Practical Benefits: “Our goal is to demystify the process of going global. We are bridging the gap between ambition and action, enabling Indian businesses to make informed decisions with confidence.”
-
On the CEPA Advantage: “The India-UAE CEPA is more than a trade deal; it’s a gateway. It grants duty-free access for 97% of Indian goods and opens corridors to Africa and Europe, transforming our export potential.”
