SBWC enhances relations between Emirati and Indian business women

The Sharjah Business Women Council (SBWC) concluded a four-day trade mission to Mumbai, India, recently, culminating in the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce & Industry Ladies Organization (FLO), signalling a new chapter in cross-border collaboration. Throughout the mission, council members engaged in high-level meetings and site visits, forging connections with more than 70 Indian companies to strengthen ties with prospective partners and suppliers and leverage India’s entrepreneurship expertise.

The trade mission, comprising a distinguished group of council members, aimed to facilitate exchange and collaboration while identifying new opportunities in prominent global markets. This initiative reaffirms the Council’s commitment to empowering women entrepreneurs by fostering stronger connections with India, one of the world’s fastest-growing economies.

The SBWC delegation was led by Mariam Bin Al Sheikh, Director of SBWC; and included Alya Taryam, SBWC Advisory Council Member and Founding Partner of Ora Wellness Lounge; Maitha Al Ansari, SBWC Advisory Council Member and Founder of House of 45; Nabilah Al Jaidi, Head of Added Value Services Section at SBWC; and Ayesha Jasem, Head of Business Development Section at SBWC. They were also accompanied by selected members of SBWC who had the valuable opportunity to showcase their businesses and engage with their Indian counterparts, resulting in the strengthening of ties and exploration of potential partnerships.

Commenting on the mission’s success, Mariam Bin Al Shaikh, said, “Our efforts over the past four days have been designed to create a pathway to growth and collaboration between our regions, forming a transformative strategy that empowers us to break barriers and seize new opportunities together. By uniting our strengths and sharing our unique perspectives, we can redefine the future of business, drive innovation, and create a lasting impact in our communities. Together, we can inspire future generations and pave the way for a more inclusive and prosperous economic landscape for both Emirati and Indian business women.”

Forging connections: Representing a landmark agreement between the two regions, an MOU was signed by Mariam Bin Al Shaikh, Director of SBWC; and Aarmeen Mogul Dordi, Chairperson of the FICCI FLO Mumbai Chapter, in the presence of Abdulla Husein Al Marzooqi, Consul General in Mumbai.

This partnership aims to strengthen ties between Emirati and Indian women entrepreneurs and is expected to open doors for collaboration in sectors vital to both economies, including technology, fashion, food and beverages, and jewellery.

The MOU represents a commitment to fostering long-term relationships that can drive economic empowerment for women in both regions.

The four-day agenda was packed with valuable events, including B2B meetings that allowed SBWC members to connect directly with potential partners and suppliers, as well as site visits to local businesses offering firsthand perspectives on operational practices and the latest industry trends within India. T

he businesses representing Sharjah included Harf w Nagsh Jewelry, Moza Jewelry, Gioielli Di Gloria, Nooda La Moda, Dar Samira Fashion, and The Kins Store; specialising in fine jewellery, children’s fashion and womens fashion.

A key highlight of the trade mission was the business forum titled “Sharjah-India Women in Business Forum: Bridging Opportunities,” which brought together authority heads, female business owners, and business leaders to discuss collaboration for growth and innovation. The panel discussion addressed challenges faced by women in both regions, stating the importance of strong networks and mentorship programmes, and also focused on advocating for supportive policies to improve the business environment for female entrepreneurs. The insightful event also provided an invaluable networking opportunity laying the groundwork for lasting partnerships across Sharjah and India.

Expanding business horizons: Mumbai served as an ideal backdrop for this mission, known for its thriving startup ecosystem and rich cultural heritage. The city is a major hub for innovation, particularly in technology and fashion, making it an attractive destination for SBWC members seeking to expand their business horizons. The trade mission not only provided an opportunity to network with over 70 Indian business owners but also allowed participants to discover the latest trends and technologies shaping their industries. Members explored Mumbai’s renowned fashion scene, where they engaged with local designers and manufacturers.

The SBWC’s initiative aligns with broader efforts to enhance economic cooperation between the UAE and India. With bilateral trade reaching impressive figures in recent years — exceeding $60 billion — the mission represented a strategic move to capitalise on existing ties while exploring new avenues for growth.