Indian businesses are deeply embedded in Dubai's commercial landscape and have been a driving force in its economic growth for decades. Today, this long-standing relationship is entering a new phase, with increasing numbers of Indian companies positioning Dubai at the centre of their international growth strategies.These businesses are building on an already substantial foundation. By the end of 2025, 81,994 Indian companies were registered as active members of the Dubai Chamber of Commerce, representing the emirate's largest foreign business community.This established business community is matched by sustained growth in bilateral trade. Non-oil trade between India and Dubai reached $60.6 billion in 2025, increasing by 57.9% between 2021 and 2025. The UAE-India Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement has reinforced this momentum by improving market access and supporting a stronger environment for bilateral trade and investment.The opportunity now is to translate this depth of engagement into broader global growth.For Indian companies seeking to expand internationally, Dubai offers more than access to a single market. It provides a globally connected operating base from which businesses can reach customers, investors, suppliers and partners across the Middle East, Africa and beyond.This is especially significant at a time when international growth increasingly depends on the ability to operate efficiently across multiple markets. Dubai combines advanced infrastructure, strong logistics capabilities, access to global talent and capital, and an extensive network of commercial relationships within a single integrated business ecosystem. For Indian companies with global ambitions, this creates a clear path from domestic strength to international scale.The next wave of growth will also be shaped by sectors where Indian companies already possess strong capabilities. AI, software development, ecommerce, and healthtech are gaining momentum as Dubai continues to accelerate its digital transformation and invest in future-facing industries. Across these areas, the opportunity is not simply to sell into Dubai, but to build from Dubai.Through Dubai International Chamber's offices in Mumbai and Bengaluru, we work directly with Indian companies to help them understand Dubai's regulatory environment, identify opportunities, and connect with trusted partners and key stakeholders.Indian businesses have already made a significant contribution to Dubai's economic success. The priority now is to help more of them use Dubai as a base for sustained global growth.As this mutually beneficial relationship continues to evolve, Dubai is well-positioned to support the next generation of Indian companies as they build on their success at home and scale from Dubai across global markets.(The author is president and CEO of Dubai Chambers. He will be speaking at The Economic Times World Leaders Forum in New Delhi.)(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed in this column are that of the writer. The facts and opinions expressed here do not reflect the views of www.economictimes.com.)