The business and expatriate community in the United Arab Emirates is mourning the loss of prominent Indian businessman and philanthropist Ram Buxani, who passed away in Dubai. Buxani, a stalwart of the Indian business community in the UAE, leaves behind a legacy of entrepreneurial success and charitable contributions.

Buxani passed away in Dubai shortly after midnight on Monday.

Arriving in Dubai in 1959 as an 18-year-old with merely five rupees in his pocket, Buxani’s remarkable journey began as an office clerk at ITL. Through sheer dedication and hard work, he climbed the corporate ladder, eventually becoming chairman of the Cosmos ITL Group in 2014. Under his leadership, the company grew into a billion-dirham enterprise. Beyond his business acumen, Buxani was widely respected for his philanthropic efforts, particularly in support of the Indian expatriate community in the UAE. His generosity extended to educational institutions and various social welfare initiatives.

Buxani also played a significant role in community leadership, serving as the Founder-Chairman of the Overseas Indians Economic Forum, which later merged with the Indian Business and Professional Council in 2003. In 1983, he also received a shield from the President of India for his contributions to the NRI community

Tributes have been pouring in from various quarters, with Indian Ambassador to the UAE, Sunjay Sudhir, expressing deep sorrow at the loss. In a statement, Ambassador Sudhir said, “The passing of Mr. Ram Buxani is a sad moment. In his passing, the community has lost a guide, a role model, and a mentor. Mr. Buxani has done the Indian community in the UAE proud.”The ambassador further added, “He will remain an inspiration for generations of Indians who call the UAE home. His hard work, entrepreneurial spirit, and service to the Indian community will always be remembered.”

By: Vinod Kumar (Dubai)