Indian diaspora in Dubai, Riyadh exudes enthusiasm

Riyadh: The Karnataka NRI Invest Summit & Buyers’ Meet in Riyadh and Dubai concluded on a high note, drawing a large gathering of investors, business leaders, and professionals eager to explore opportunities in the state. The event, spearheaded by the Karnataka government in collaboration with News Trail, a leading English daily published in Bengaluru and Qatar, aimed to attract Non-Resident Indian (NRI) investments while strengthening trade ties between Karnataka and the Gulf region. Leading up to this summit, the Government of Karnataka conducted a roadshow in Jeddah on November 22, in Riyadh on November 23, and in Dubai on November 24.

The delegation was led by Dr. P.C. Jaffer, IAS, Secretary to the Finance Department (B&R), and Vipul Bansal, Secretary, MSME, Mines & Textiles. Naseer Ahmed, MLC and the Karnataka Chief Minister’s political secretary, emphasised Karnataka’s leadership in the IT sector and highlighted Bengaluru as a global technology hub. Held in the esteemed presence of Manusmriti, Counsellor at the Embassy of India in Riyadh, the summit positioned Karnataka as a premier investment hub, highlighting its thriving industries and investor- friendly policies. "It's a welcome move by the Karnataka government to focus on engaging NRIs for investment in the state. Such initiatives are essential to strengthening economic ties and encouraging the diaspora to contribute to Karnataka's growth," Manusmriti said.

Dr. P.C. Jaffer presented a compelling case for investment, underlining the state’s robust infrastructure, skilled workforce, and business incentives. Dr. Jaffer felicitated Dr. Syed Anwar Khursheed, a distinguished Indian physician in Saudi Arabia and a recipient of the Pravasi Bharatiya Samman Award—the highest honour conferred by the President of India on overseas Indians. Dr. Khursheed, originally from Gulbarga in Karnataka, was honoured in recognition of his roots in the state.

Engaging presentations by senior bureaucrats provided valuable insights into business prospects, policy frameworks, and state-led initiatives designed to facilitate seamless investments. Additionally, a vibrant vendor meet, featuring Karnataka’s MSME body KASSIA, showcased a diverse range of products from leading companies, further bolstering trade opportunities between Karnataka and the Gulf market. The overwhelming response to the event reaffirmed Karnataka’s appeal as a preferred destination for global investors. With a strong push towards fostering economic collaboration, the summit marked a significant step in strengthening the state’s engagement with its NRI community in Saudi Arabia.