By Hemang Palan 

The LIBF (Lohana International Business Forum’s) GCC Calling 2025 conference concluded in Dubai on April 16, 2025 with a landmark gathering of the global Lohana community. Over 700 business leaders, entrepreneurs, and professionals from over 30 countries convened at this four-day summit, underscoring the event’s international scale and significance.

The forum – one of the largest of its kind for the LIBF diaspora – provided a platform to forge cross-border partnerships and explore opportunities across business, technology, and social development.

The conference was inaugurated by Chief Guest H.E. Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, UAE Minister of Tolerance and Coexistence, who praised the Lohana community’s economic dynamism and the deep-rooted ties between the UAE and India. In his keynote address, Sheikh Nahyan remarked that “the LIBF GCC Calling aligns fully with the priorities of the UAE and other GCC countries – particularly in the areas of sustainable entrepreneurship, economic cooperation, and the promotion of ethical values in business.” 

India’s Ambassador to the UAE, H E Shri Sunjay Sudhir, also addressed the gathering, lauding the forum as a strategic platform for strengthening India-Gulf collaboration. 

The event was fully supported by both UAE and Indian Governments. 

The presence of the Council General of India Shri Satish Sivan, along with other dignitaries from multiple nations, lent prestige to the event and highlighted its global reach.

Notable guests of honor and speakers from around the world took part in discussions. Indian parliamentarian Anurag Thakur, UK House of Lords member Lord Dolar Popat, and UK Member of Parliament Shivani Raja were among those who attended and addressed the gathering, underscoring the community’s international influence. 

Renowned journalist Arnab Goswami, Editor-in-Chief of Republic TV, led an animated session on geopolitics and global media. Eminent economist and Member of Prime Minister’s Economic Advisory Committee, Shri Sanjeev Sanyal shared insights on economic trends and sustainable growth, while banker and social activist Smt Amruta Fadnavis ji spoke on women’s empowerment in business and society.

Shri Manojbhai Kotak, former Member of Parliament, addressed the delegates and acknowledged the strength and global reach of the Lohana community, urging greater collaboration between diaspora professionals and India’s development agenda. 

Shri Mihirbhai Kotecha, Member of the Maharashtra Legislative Assembly from Mulund—a constituency home to over 50,000 Lohanas—shared insights on grassroots empowerment and emphasized the importance of collective efforts for social transformation.

Their intellectual contributions, along with those of other industry experts and thought leaders, ensured a deep exploration of key themes shaping today’s world.

Major themes and sectoral highlights of GCC Calling 2025 spanned a broad spectrum. Panel discussions delved into the evolving GCC business landscape and regional geopolitics, examining the Gulf’s role as a strategic hub for global trade and investment. Experts from the technology sector explored the rise of artificial intelligence (AI) and digital transformation and their impact on commerce.

Real estate opportunities in the GCC region were discussed as part of wider economic development plans. Education and skill development also featured prominently, with educational leaders contributing perspectives on nurturing the next generation. In tandem, dedicated forums addressed women’s empowerment and leadership, emphasizing the inclusion of women in entrepreneurship and industry. Together, these sessions provided attendees with forward-looking insights across business, geopolitics, education, technology, and community development.

Beyond business and economics, the summit maintained a balance of youth, culture, and spiritual dimensions. A special focus on youth empowerment was evident through mentorship programs and networking sessions aimed at inspiring young entrepreneurs and professionals. Cultural heritage was celebrated as delegates participated in community gatherings and a spiritual program, fostering a sense of unity and identity. These activities highlighted the event’s holistic approach – blending commerce with culture – and reinforced the shared values of the Lohana diaspora even as they pursue global innovation.

As the conference drew to a close, the tone was optimistic and forward-looking. 
In a pivotal announcement, organizers declared that the next international Lohana business summit will take place at JIO World Convention Centre Mumbai, India. This upcoming event, slated for  2026, is expected to welcome delegations from over 30 countries, expanding the forum’s global mission. The Mumbai 2026 gathering (LIBF Expo 2026) will build on the momentum from Dubai, aiming to further deepen global trade integration, innovation, and community welfare. The announcement resonated with attendees as a bold next step – carrying the message of unity, empowerment, and collaborative growth into the future, and solidifying the Lohana community’s commitment to worldwide progress.