Dubai Chambers, in partnership with the UAE’s Ministry of Economy and Tourism and the Indian Business and Professional Council, recently organized a dedicated forum aimed at strengthening the governance and long-term sustainability of Indian family-owned enterprises operating in the emirate. The event brought together key stakeholders to discuss the adoption of international best practices and navigate generational succession.
Quick Facts
- Family businesses contribute 60% of the UAE’s GDP.
- They employ 80% of the country’s total workforce.
- 87 members of the Indian business community attended the forum.
A Legislative Push for Generational Success
A central theme of the forum was the UAE’s Federal Decree Law No. (37) of 2022 on Family Businesses. The legislation is designed to create a more flexible and supportive legal framework that helps these enterprises grow and adapt to economic changes.
Abdulla bin Touq Al Marri, Minister of Economy and Tourism, highlighted the law’s impact, stating, “Family businesses are among the most important drivers of the national economy’s growth and sustainability. The Family Business Law represents a proactive and distinguished step by the UAE… that contributes to ensuring the continuity of these companies and enhancing their ability to grow and expand across generations.”
He also pointed to the launch of the Unified Family Business Registry, a federal platform offering essential services like registration and the deposition of family charters to ensure smooth management continuity. Al Marri noted that family businesses account for around 90% of all private companies in the UAE.
Dubai’s Commitment to Institutional Growth
The event underscored Dubai’s strategic focus on helping legacy businesses evolve into more robust institutional models. This transition is seen as critical for them to capitalize on new economic opportunities and maintain their competitive edge.
Mohammad Ali Rashed Lootah, President and CEO of Dubai Chambers, commented, “Family businesses in Dubai enjoy a deep-rooted economic legacy built on trust and commercial expertise. We are committed to supporting their transition towards more advanced institutional models that enable them to keep pace with global changes and capitalise on new opportunities across diverse sectors.”
Lootah added that the Chambers is focused on enhancing the readiness of these businesses by promoting best practices in governance and developing effective frameworks for business continuity.
Dedicated Resources and Advisory
To provide tangible support, the Dubai Centre for Family Businesses, which operates under Dubai Chambers, has rolled out several key initiatives. In 2025, it launched three specialized advisory services: Current Situation Assessment and Family Charter Review, Family Charter Drafting, and Family Office Planning.
The centre also issued its first directory of family business advisers in Dubai. This resource is intended to connect family enterprises with trusted experts across key administrative and operational areas, streamlining access to specialized support.
About Dubai Chambers
Dubai Chambers is a non-profit public entity that supports Dubai’s vision as a global player by empowering businesses, providing innovative value-added services, and offering access to influential networks. It operates several specialized entities, including the Dubai Chamber of Commerce, Dubai International Chamber, and Dubai Chamber of Digital Economy.
Source: Zawya
