Veteran Indian businessman Vasu Shroff, widely known as Dubai’s textile king, has passed away at the age of 85. He died at his residence in Satwa on Sunday morning. Shroff was among the early generation of entrepreneurs who witnessed and contributed to the UAE’s transformation from the Trucial States to a global commercial hub.
Born in India, Shroff arrived in Sharjah from Mumbai by boat in 1960 and later moved to Dubai, where he built a lasting business legacy. He founded Regal Traders in Bur Dubai, starting with a single textile store that expanded into a network of 16 outlets and five offices across multiple countries. Over the decades, he earned a reputation for strong business acumen, community engagement and philanthropy.
Shroff is widely regarded as a pioneer in Dubai’s textile trade, playing a key role in the emirate’s early commercial growth. He was also respected within the Indian diaspora and the wider business community in the UAE for his contributions and leadership.Tributes have poured in following his passing. Yusuffali MA, chairman of Lulu Group, said, “He was among the early visionaries who helped shape Dubai’s commercial landscape.”Funeral services are scheduled for Monday, April 27, at around 4.30 pm at New Sonapur cemetery. The family has requested privacy, noting that the cremation will be attended by men only.
