The 2026 honourees.

From Karom village in Bihar's Siwan district to the competitive construction industry of the United Arab Emirates, Hemant Singh's journey is an inspiring story of perseverance, enterprise and social responsibility. Beginning his professional career around 2007, he learned the demands of the industry from the ground up and gradually established a respected identity in the UAE. Today, he is associated with Brick Line Building Contracting and is known for giving equal importance to quality, safety, timely delivery and client confidence.

His entrepreneurial vision also led to the establishment of Purvanchal Restaurant, creating a cultural connection for Indians living far from home. Despite professional success abroad, Mr. Singh remains closely connected to Karom. His support for community programmes, religious initiatives and children's educational needs reflects his belief that achievement becomes meaningful when it creates opportunities and strengthens the community that shaped it.

Leadership creates lasting value when achievement is matched by integrity, service and impact.

Born in Patna, Bihar, Dr. Azam Badar Khan is an accomplished orthopaedic and joint replacement surgeon known as "Dr. Knee". He completed his MBBS at Nalanda Medical College in 1996 and his Master of Surgery at IMS-BHU in 2001, followed by fellowships in arthroplasty and trauma in the United States and Russia. His career reflects a sustained commitment to restoring mobility through advanced knee care.

After beginning his professional journey at Apollo Hospital, Delhi, he joined Rashid Hospital, Dubai, in 2008 and gained further international exposure with leading institutions in New York and St. Petersburg. Today, he leads a Knee Osteoarthritis Preventive and Knee Replacement Clinic at International Modern Hospital, combining surgical expertise, prevention and patient education.

His work in Somalia included the country's first successful total knee replacement procedure. Beyond the operating theatre, Dr. Khan has made humanitarian service central to his mission. Through Let's Walk Again with Dr. Knee, free medical camps in Kargil and Ladakh, health-awareness initiatives and community welfare programmes in the UAE, he has brought care and hope to underserved communities.

His global knee-health advocacy, including a 2024 World Health Assembly side event, and his Tolerance Award recognition reflect leadership grounded in inclusion, dignity and service. Excellence becomes truly meaningful when knowledge, leadership and service come together to improve lives. EXCELLENCE IN KNEE CARE & HUMANITARIAN SERVICE AWARD 2026

Dr. Darshan Singh Rana is the Chairman and Managing Director of Rana Group, a diversified industrial organisation focused on green energy, sustainable mobility, advanced manufacturing and smart infrastructure. His leadership has guided the Group's expansion from engineering and construction into electric vehicles, hydrogen, renewable energy, semiconductors, aerospace and aviation. Through Erisha E Mobility, he is advancing a broad zero-emission transport ecosystem spanning electric two- and three-wheelers, commercial vehicles, hydrogen fuel-cell buses and vehicle-charging solutions.

His approach brings together technology, business development, project planning and strategic international partnerships. In the UAE, Rana Group has partnered with Ras Al Khaimah Economic Zone to develop the Erisha Smart Manufacturing Hub at Al Ghail. Planned across approximately 335 acres, the integrated industrial ecosystem is designed to support more than 150 industries across electric and hydrogen mobility, renewable energy, semiconductors, eVTOL aircraft and advanced manufacturing.

His global vision also extends to Erisha Silicon Valley - Florida, an aerospace and aviation ecosystem planned at Keystone Heights Airport. Connecting India, the UAE and the United States, his strategy centres on cleaner industry, resilient supply chains and innovation that can move from research to manufacturing at scale. An honorary doctorate recognises his work in technology, business, innovation and international collaboration.

For Dr. Rana, industrial growth is not only about scale; it is about building practical pathways towards a low-carbon, technology-led future. A vision that connects industrial scale with cleaner mobility, resilient supply chains and cross-border innovation.

Mr. Balbir Singh Randhawa is an Abu Dhabi-based social worker and community leader whose life reflects a lasting commitment to service. Born in Dharmuchak, a village in Amritsar, he has lived in the UAE for more than 45 years while remaining closely connected to his roots. As Director - UAE of the World Cancer Care Organisation, he supports humanitarian engagement and cancer-care awareness.

His work is guided by empathy, dignity and the belief that community leadership must create practical benefit for people. Through his role as General Governor at India Social Centre in the UAE, he has been actively involved in programmes that celebrate Indian culture, traditions and heritage, helping strengthen community bonds across generations. He also serves as a coordinator of Punarjot Eye Bank Society, a non-profit organisation in Ludhiana, Punjab, which conducts free eye check-ups and surgery camps across India.

His contributions extend to his native village, where he participated in establishing its first Gurdwara and cremation centre. He has also supported community Bhandaras in Rishikesh and contributed to the landmark BAPS Hindu Mandir in Abu Dhabi. Recognised by PTC Punjab in its 2022 book Lions of Punjab, Mr. Balbir Singh Randhawa continues to inspire through humility, cultural pride and sustained service to society.

“God has been kind to give me the opportunity to contribute to our society in whatever way I can.”

Mr. Kaunain Alam Siddiqui is the Founder & CEO of Strong Walls Constructions L.L.C., a Dubai-based construction enterprise. As its entrepreneurial and executive leader, he has guided the company through professional execution, trusted partnerships and a consistent commitment to quality and safety. Under his leadership, Strong Walls has developed capabilities across building contracting, civil engineering, additions and alterations, upgrading works, design and build projects, property development, architecture consulting and interior solutions.

The company serves public and private-sector clients, developers, businesses and homeowners. Its portfolio spans high-rise residential and commercial buildings, townhouses, villas, warehouses, factories and turnkey assignments. Ongoing and completed projects across Al Barsha South, Jumeirah Village Circle, Nakhlat Deira, Wadi Al Safa, Jebel Ali, Dubai Sports City, Al Furjan and Jumeirah Garden City reflect the organisation's operational breadth.

With a mission to create long-term value through quality engineering, capable resources and modern techniques, he continues to position Strong Walls as a trusted construction partner in the UAE and beyond. Long-term value through quality construction, trusted relationships and modern engineering solutions. Kaunain Alam Siddiqui leads with integrity, resourcefulness, customer satisfaction and responsible growth.

Ratnakar Kumar is a music and film entrepreneur whose vision has helped Indian regional entertainment travel far beyond its traditional markets. As Managing Director of Worldwide Records Limited, he has built a career across music labels, film production, digital distribution, mobile content and international business development. He founded Worldwide Records in 2000 and steadily developed it into a multi-platform entertainment enterprise.

The company works across music acquisition, catalogue development, film production, digital services and value-added telecom content, connecting artists and stories with audiences in India and overseas. Across more than twenty-five years, Ratnakar has produced over 50 films and supported a wide range of creative talent. His leadership combines an understanding of regional audiences with the discipline required to develop, market and distribute content at scale.

International engagement has been central to his journey. Through participation in global entertainment markets, including Cannes, he has strengthened networks for Indian content and explored new opportunities for collaboration, licensing and distribution. He continues to champion digital growth while preserving the cultural identity that gives regional music and cinema their distinctive power.

Ratnakar's journey reflects the belief that entertainment can be both creative expression and enduring enterprise. By investing in content, technology and people, he continues to take Indian music and cinema to a wider world. “Culture earns global reach when creativity is supported by vision, technology and trust.”

CA Pankaj Kumar Jaiswal is a Fellow Chartered Accountant, author, columnist, motivational speaker and socio-economic analyst whose work brings together professional finance, public policy and community action. A commerce graduate from Gorakhpur University, he is an FCA of ICAI and holds a Diploma in International Taxation from ICAI. Across his corporate career, he has held senior leadership roles as Chief Operating Officer, Group Financial Controller and Group Chief Financial Officer.

His experience across aviation, manufacturing, telecom, healthcare and multinational enterprises has shaped a practical understanding of how finance, taxation and enterprise can support responsible growth. His published work includes Eternal Economics, Sanatan Arthashastra, White Paper on MSMEs in India, India Economic Diary, Commentary on GST and titles on international taxation, science and development. Through more than 800 articles and blogs, he has written on economics, taxation, education, healthcare, women's empowerment and governance, translating complex issues into accessible public dialogue.

Public service has remained central to his journey. During COVID-19, he helped arrange food for more than 40,000 labourers, built a network of volunteers, and established 55 Oximeter Banks and 55 Sugar Checkpoints across Uttar Pradesh. He has also delivered motivational and career-guidance sessions for students, with special attention to children from underprivileged communities.

His wider engagement includes more than 50 round-table conferences, diaspora platforms such as UP Connect and Matribhumi Vandan, and participation in investor outreach across India and Dubai. As a speaker and advisor, he continues to champion MSME growth, rural development, citizen awareness and a stronger connection between knowledge, enterprise and nation-building. His journey reflects a powerful idea: knowledge creates lasting value when it is placed in the service of society.

As Founder and Chairman of the Uttar Pradesh Development Forum, he connects the diaspora with investment and state development. Earlier, he served on an advisory panel of the Central Board of Film Certification under the Government of India; he now advises the Government of Uttar Pradesh. His community work includes SmartGaon Development Foundation and Pardesiya Kala Sangam Trust.

With more than two decades of experience in food trading and international business, Ajay Kumar Gupta has emerged as a respected entrepreneurial leader in the UAE. As Managing Director of Itachi Food Products Co. L.L.C., he has guided the company's growth in sourcing, importing and exporting food and beverage products across the Middle East, Africa, Europe and the United States.

Established in the UAE in 2020, Itachi Food Products has expanded from its wholesale base in Al Ras, Dubai, into a growing international network. Its flagship MR KABIR portfolio includes premium Basmati and other rice varieties, supported by a quality-focused supply chain and timely delivery. The wider business ecosystem also includes Modern Agro International FZ-LLC, established in 2015.

Under Mr. Gupta's leadership, the organisation emphasises reliability, international quality standards, customer trust and responsible growth. A strong level of repeat business reflects consistent service, while its sourcing and distribution presence across the UAE, India and Saudi Arabia demonstrates a forward-looking approach to global trade. His journey represents the spirit of Indian enterprise connecting confidently with international opportunity.

Leadership earns lasting trust when quality, reliability and responsibility guide every decision.

Based in Abu Dhabi, Amrita Singh is a dedicated community leader and social contributor whose work brings together women, professionals and Indian families through purposeful social, cultural and professional initiatives. Her leadership is rooted in inclusion, meaningful connection and the belief that communities grow stronger when people are encouraged to participate, collaborate and lead. As Founder and Leader of Indian Women in Abu Dhabi, she leads a platform that promotes women's empowerment, networking, personal growth and community engagement.

Through supportive interactions and collaborative initiatives, she encourages women to build confidence, exchange ideas, develop valuable relationships and contribute meaningfully to community life. She also serves as a Committee Member of the Indian Business & Professional Group (IBPG), Abu Dhabi, supporting networking and collaboration among professionals and entrepreneurs. As Head of the IPF Bihar Council, Abu Dhabi, she works to strengthen cultural ties and advance community welfare initiatives.

Her contribution reflects compassionate, people-centred leadership with an enduring commitment to unity and positive social impact. Leadership becomes meaningful when it creates connection, confidence and opportunity for others.

Anand Kumar Singh is a distinguished media entrepreneur whose work has strengthened the reach and professional standing of Indian regional entertainment. As Chairman and Managing Director of Oscar Media Private Limited, he leads a diversified portfolio spanning television, film and digital entertainment, guided by the belief that culturally rooted content can speak confidently to audiences across regions and borders. Oscar Movie Bhojpuri lies at the heart of this vision, providing a credible platform for Bhojpuri cinema, artists and cultural storytelling.

His media portfolio also includes Pasand TV, Unique TV and The Quebe TV, each serving a distinct audience while sharing a commitment to engaging, quality-led and socially relevant programming. Mr. Singh combines business acumen with creative instinct. He supports original ideas, encourages emerging talent and embraces technology for stronger distribution, digital growth and OTT expansion.

His channels are being prepared for wider international reach, connecting Indian regional entertainment with audiences beyond its traditional markets. Beyond media, he is Founder and Managing Director of Oscar Mega Developers & Infra Private Limited. Across both enterprises, his leadership reflects strategic clarity, ethical practice, innovation and long-term value creation.

IBS Awards 2026 recognises his visionary contribution to regional broadcasting and his ability to unite enterprise, technology and cultural identity. Media creates lasting influence when enterprise, technology and cultural identity move forward together.

With more than 22 years of experience in information technology and services, Srinivas Singh is a distinguished technology leader, serial entrepreneur, business strategist, investor and mentor. He helps organisations adopt digital technologies, modernise operations and build scalable enterprise systems. His expertise spans Microsoft Business Solutions, Salesforce CRM, Azure, Oracle, cloud platforms, business intelligence, data warehousing, IT strategy, staffing and professional services.

He has served clients across real estate, manufacturing, healthcare, BFSI, retail, government, oil and gas, logistics and free zones. As a founder, growth specialist and startup coach, he supports emerging ventures in refining strategy and building sustainable models. His leadership demonstrates that technology creates lasting value when it is guided by business understanding, trust and purpose.

Leadership creates lasting value when achievement is matched by integrity, service and impact.

Salil R. Sawant is a results-driven media professional with more than 25 years of experience across traditional and digital media, including over 19 years in leadership roles. He is known for combining strategic thinking, commercial discipline and audience insight to improve brand visibility, efficiency and measurable return on investment. As Media Head at Glenmark Consumer Care, he leads media strategy, channel evaluation and investment optimisation.

His approach uses data, negotiation and continuous review to build an effective media mix, strengthen reach and secure sustainable cost efficiency across campaigns. A defining chapter was his 13-year tenure with Godrej Consumer Products Limited as DGM - Media, where he managed substantial portfolios and budgets exceeding INR 700 crore. Across his career, he has handled more than INR 9,000 crore in cumulative media investment and contributed to over 4,000 campaigns spanning FMCG, banking, real estate and diversified businesses.

Earlier senior roles with Madison Communication and Starcom MediaWest strengthened his expertise in planning, buying and high-value negotiation. He also developed media-audit norms and supported the appointment of a specialised audit agency, reinforcing compliance and transparency. His career demonstrates how disciplined governance can make every media investment work harder and more responsibly.

Media leadership is not about spending more; it is about making every investment work harder, smarter and with greater accountability.

With a business presence spanning the United States and Dubai, Vibhash Trivedi has built a distinguished entrepreneurial journey defined by strategic thinking, innovation and disciplined execution. As Founder and CEO of VR Group, he brings together more than 25 years of experience across multiple industries and international markets. His diversified portfolio encompasses investment management, gold bullion trading, hospitality, events and real estate development.

Vibhash connects these sectors through a unified leadership philosophy centred on trust, adaptability and long-term value creation. Operating across two global markets has strengthened his ability to remain locally relevant while meeting international standards of quality, transparency and service. His contribution was recognised at the Dubaiites Food & Nightlife Awards 2025, where he was honoured as CEO of the Year for his exemplary role in the Group's development.

Looking ahead, he remains focused on meaningful ventures, stronger international partnerships and institutions capable of creating lasting impact across industries and geographies. Leadership without boundaries turns diverse opportunities into one enduring vision.

Born in Meerut, Uttar Pradesh, in 1949, Kusum Dutta grew up in a family where seva and care for society were a way of life. An M.A. in Economics from Meerut University, she served as an NCC officer, organised more than 22 training camps, became an All India Shooting Champion and earned recognition in mountaineering. Her commitment to service began early through work with orphanages and welfare organisations in India, including initiatives associated with Navjyoti.

After relocating to Dubai in the early 1990s following a long period in Kuwait, she became an active and trusted presence in the Indian community. She held responsible positions with the Indian Ladies Association and was among the founders of Community and Services (CAS). Working closely with the Indian Consulate's PBSK desk, she has supported distressed blue-collar workers, distributed food and essential supplies, counselled women in difficult circumstances and extended care to children with special needs through organisations such as Prerna.

For over 30 years, Kusum Dutta has combined hands-on humanitarian service with community leadership, art, authorship and social advocacy. Her contribution has been recognised by the Indian Consulate in Dubai, the Women Empowerment Awards, the Lions of Punjab coffee-table book and the Kalpana Chawla Award for Philanthropy. She continues to create positive impact with warmth, dignity and an unwavering commitment to people in need.

Beyond welfare work, her creative life remains equally vibrant. Her art has been exhibited in Dubai and India, while her presence at community and consular events reflects a rare ability to bring people together. Her journey stands as an enduring example of leadership rooted not in position, but in empathy, action and service.

For Kusum Dutta, service is not an occasion - it is a lifelong way of living.

Manoj Kumar is a Dubai-based entrepreneur whose journey reflects ambition, curiosity and the belief that meaningful progress begins with a simple step. He approaches every new venture as a learner, drawing lessons from both success and setback. Across more than one sector, Manoj has built expertise in life sciences, forensic DNA, molecular diagnostics, clinical research, laboratory technologies, scientific marketing and business development.

His work connects specialised science with practical market strategy and long-term partnerships. As Group CEO, he leads BioSpace Scientific LLC and Helium Advertising LLC in Dubai, supporting scientific and healthcare organisations across the region. Through technology, communication and strategic growth, he helps innovative products and services reach the right institutions and audiences.

He is also the owner of NewsCrime24, a digital news platform in Bihar, India, extending his entrepreneurial journey into journalism and public communication. Recognised as a Best Life Science Marketeer in the Middle East, Manoj takes particular pride in entering a highly concentrated global product segment. What began as a bold 'why not try?' decision has grown through consistency, patience and the support of the right people.

Grounded and forward-looking, he continues to learn, build genuine relationships and move ahead one step at a time. “Stay grounded, keep learning and move forward - one step at a time.”

Mridula Chadha is the daughter of an eminent physician honoured by the British Crown with the title Abbey, later carried as the family name. Raised in the Seth family, she showed artistic talent early, graduating in Kathak at the age of eight. Alongside her late husband, she built a petroleum enterprise from scratch; his success earned him the name “The Oil King.” Their Roshanic greases and lubricants, traded through Hindustan Trading Corporation and Bharat Chemical Works, reached markets across India and abroad.

She remains Proprietor and led the family’s move into real estate with Asher Sapphire and Asher Millennium. She is among India’s highest-bracket taxpayers. As a Special Executive Magistrate, she continues to serve the public.

In the Lioness movement, she rose from First District President to Mumbai Multiple District President and received the Best Multiple District President award. Lions International placed her in its Top 10 in the World for her work with differently-abled children. Her philanthropy includes an adopted Adivasi village in Gujarat, tube wells in Mumbai, sponsored education for girls, a toy library for children with cancer, bathrooms built for cancer patients and ongoing support for their families.

A cancer survivor herself, she cared for her husband through eighteen years of illness. Even in his final days, she fulfilled her presidential duties, presiding over the closing ceremony with grace. An award-winning golfer, she also serves on her club’s golf committee.

From landmark businesses to children’s welfare and community care.

Akhilesh Yadav, Founder and Managing Director of Priyakanthji Group, is a real-estate leader committed to making quality homes attainable while ensuring that every promise to a homebuyer is honoured. His leadership combines practical planning, disciplined execution and a close understanding of the aspirations of families across Navi Mumbai. The Group's journey spans more than 15 years.

During its first nine years, it strengthened its construction expertise through collaborations with reputed developers; over the following six years, it evolved into an independent development brand. Today, its residential portfolio includes 10+ completed projects and a growing presence across Pushpak Nagar, Ulwe, Panvel and the wider Navi Mumbai region. Akhilesh's approach is grounded in transparent documentation, quality-led construction, customer-first guidance and long-term relationships.

This philosophy has helped the Group earn recognitions including Best Luxury Real Estate Company at IBS Dubai 2025, Most Promising Developers at Times Leading Icons 2024 and the Bihar Gaurav Asmita Award 2025. With a clear focus on connected growth locations, he continues to build homes, trust and lasting value for the communities the Group serves. Every family deserves a quality home at a fair price - and every promise made to a homebuyer deserves to be honoured.

Amit Sinha is a respected Bhojpuri personality and hospitality professional whose Dubai journey reflects dedication, foresight and service. Born in 1977 in Siwan, Bihar, he completed his studies in Hotel Management in 2009 and built his career through discipline, guest understanding and an unwavering commitment to excellence. Today he serves as VP - Business Head at VTR Group, Dubai, helping shape strategy, strengthen operations and guide hospitality ventures toward sustainable growth.

Under his leadership, the Headline nightclub and restaurant business has strengthened its position in Dubai's competitive hospitality and entertainment landscape through operational discipline and distinctive guest experiences. His leadership is equally defined by social responsibility. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Amit extended practical support to members of the Bihar and Bhojpuri communities in Dubai.

The Consulate General of India in Dubai honoured this contribution, recognising his compassion, civic responsibility and commitment to community welfare. Amit remains deeply connected to Bihar, the Bhojpuri language and its cultural identity. He actively supports cultural and social programmes that unite the diaspora and elevate Bhojpuri culture internationally.

His journey shows that enterprise and public service can advance together when leadership retains a human touch. He embraced community service alongside enterprise, elevating Bhojpuri culture on the global stage.

From the quiet lanes of Rampir village in Siwan, Bihar, to the dynamic business landscape of Dubai, Mr. Shambho Yadav's journey is a testament to perseverance, purpose and transformation. He arrived in the UAE as a labourer, carrying little more than determination and a belief that disciplined effort could create a better future. Through hard work and unshakable resolve, he established his own business venture and steadily built an enterprise that now supports more than 1,000 worker families.

His rise from modest beginnings to entrepreneurship reflects the dignity of labour and the possibilities created when ambition is guided by responsibility. Mr. Yadav is equally respected for his humanity and social contribution. His life is more than a personal success story; it shows how roots in rural India can grow into global impact while remaining grounded in service, humility and concern for others.

True progress is measured by how many families, communities and futures rise with us. INSPIRATIONAL ENTREPRENEURSHIP & SOCIAL IMPACT AWARD 2026

Rooted in Sitamarhi, Bihar, and rising to prominence in the United Arab Emirates, Mr. L. B. Thakur is respected in both boardrooms and community circles. Over more than 25 years in Dubai, he has built a wide-ranging entrepreneurial journey shaped by vision, grit and perseverance.

His business achievements include ownership and leadership across five stadiums and more than five thriving companies. This diversified enterprise reflects his ability to identify opportunity, build enduring organisations and contribute to the region's economic and social landscape. Beyond commerce, Mr. Thakur is known as a committed social worker who is quick to extend a helping hand.

For members of the Indian diaspora in the UAE and communities connected to his roots, he represents a form of leadership in which success is measured not only by growth, but also by the lives strengthened along the way. Success finds its highest purpose when achievement is matched by service and giving back.

With more than 15 years of professional experience, Manas Pandey has established himself as an accomplished business operations expert with multidisciplinary exposure across facility management, insurance, human resources, workforce placement and international trade. An MBA-qualified professional, he combines strategic planning, operational discipline and relationship management to deliver practical service solutions. Among his notable achievements are the delivery of six major facility management projects, insurance services for more than 5,000 blue-collar workers and support for over 200 workforce placements within the UAE.

His focus on service excellence, efficient resource use and people-centred operations continues to create measurable value for organisations and communities. Leadership creates lasting value when achievement is matched by integrity, service and impact.

With more than a decade of experience in the travel and tourism industry, Sonika Arya has built a distinctive entrepreneurial journey as Founder and Managing Director of Vixson Vacations, a premium travel boutique under Vixson Ventures. Established in the UAE, the company reflects her belief that travel should not merely be seen, but deeply felt. Armed with a master's degree in Tourism Management and a passion for beaches, nature and heritage, Sonika creates seamless, personalised journeys shaped by authenticity and care.

Her expertise spans luxury travel, MICE - Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Exhibitions - and educational tours, with experience across India and the UAE. Every itinerary is designed as a story, balancing operational precision with memorable human connection. Her forward-looking approach has introduced offerings such as workation tourism, blending professional productivity with leisure, and investment tourism, connecting global travellers with long-term opportunities in the UAE and beyond.

In 2025, she expanded her entrepreneurial vision by co-founding Fanashe, a luxury e-commerce brand. Through innovation, resilience and inspired leadership, Sonika continues to redefine modern tourism with purpose and imagination. Travel is not just about places.

It is about purpose, passion and the people you meet along the way.

Anup Kumar Jha is a UAE-based hospitality executive, hotel owner and business development specialist with more than 25 years of experience in hotel operations, asset management and hospitality investment. Across his career, he has launched, operated and strengthened hotels, food and beverage concepts and leisure venues, earning a reputation for operational excellence, commercial growth and long-term value creation. As Partner at Camphor Hospitality Consultancy and Camphor Hotel, Ras Al Khaimah, he provides strategic leadership across hospitality investments, hotel operations and asset management initiatives.

His work spans performance optimisation, business development, revenue enhancement and guest-experience improvement. Earlier, as Group General Manager of Signature Inn Hotels, he directed multiple hospitality assets and strengthened profitability, service standards and market positioning. Beginning his hospitality career in the Food and Beverage division of Astoria Hotel and Ambassador Hotel, Dubai, in 2001, Mr. Jha progressed through senior leadership roles across the UAE.

His expertise in hotel openings, operational turnarounds, commercial strategy, regulatory compliance and team leadership reflects a practical understanding of both guest expectations and investor priorities.

At 30, Vikas Harsh represents a new generation of Indian entrepreneurs combining professional education, international experience and family enterprise. A Civil Engineering graduate of Birla Institute of Technology, Mesra, he began his career with a multinational company in Bengaluru before moving to Muscat and entering the natural-stone industry. As Director of UNITED MODERN STONE SPC, he has contributed to major marble, granite and natural-stone projects across Oman.

The Oman Botanic Garden became a defining milestone, strengthening the company's standing through technical understanding, precise material planning, dependable delivery and relationship-led growth. Vikas carries a third-generation civil-engineering legacy shaped by his grandfather, Shri Dhrub Deo Tiwari, and his father, Mr. Sanjay Kumar, who has worked in Oman for nearly three decades. Throughout this journey he has received unwavering support from his wife, Divya, an engineer and management graduate from IIM Trichy, whose encouragement remains an important source of strength.

In 2021, the family expanded its vision to India through Natural Stone Marble and Granite Pvt. Ltd., which contributed to the Shri Ram Mandir project in Ayodhya. Vikas now aims to establish stone-processing capacity in India for temples and heritage architecture, combining modern production with traditional craftsmanship and building a trusted enterprise across markets. Three generations of engineering knowledge inspire a vision that connects technical excellence, family values and global enterprise.

Omkar Shrivastava is an entrepreneur whose journey connects India, the UAE and the United Kingdom. Raised in a small village in Siwan, Bihar, he drew early inspiration from his father, businessman Vinod Shrivastava. Family setbacks taught him perseverance, responsibility and the courage to rebuild.

After studying in Delhi, he developed his career through hands-on experience in business development, trading and international markets. As Founder of Greencap General Trading LLC, Dubai, Omkar leads a diversified international trading and distribution business spanning lighting, electrical and technology products, along with the import and export of fresh fruits and vegetables. Greencap is an authorized sole distributor of LUTEC Lighting in the UAE and wider Middle Eastern market, within its authorized territory.

His approach centres on international sourcing, OEM partnerships and long-term brand development. He is also Founder of Dizen Technologies Ltd, UK, with the DIZEN brand represented in India through DIZEN Technologies Pvt. Ltd., and Co-Founder of Aagrix. Guided by the philosophy "DIZEN - DESIGN YOUR SPACE", his vision spans lighting, smart living, automation and design-led solutions.

Looking ahead, he aims to build manufacturing and assembly capabilities in India and the UAE while creating enduring brands, relationships and opportunities across borders. I have seen both success and difficult times from an early age. My father taught me how to build; life taught me how to rebuild.

Anand Gupta is a finance professional based in Abu Dhabi, with CA, CFA and CISA credentials. His career spans banking, consulting and industry across the UAE, Qatar, Bahrain and India. His CV lists him as Executive Manager at Abu Dhabi Commercial Bank since 2016, with work in budgeting, financial control and forecasting for technology and corporate services.

Earlier, he was Senior Manager at KPMG Qatar and Head of Financial Planning and Treasury at Media Services W.L.L. in Qatar. Roles at Ernst & Young Bahrain, KPMG Fakhro, a Dubai contracting company and Singhi & Co. developed his experience in valuation, modelling, audit and commercial finance. His work has included financial models, cash flow planning, investment appraisal and management reporting.

At ADCB, he has also identified savings opportunities, strengthened controls and trained team members in finance, accounting and Excel. Beyond his professional roles, Gupta has served on the managing committee of the ICAI Abu Dhabi Chapter and the executive committee of a chartered accountants chapter in Bahrain. His CV also records volunteer involvement in Indian Embassy functions through the ICAI Abu Dhabi Chapter.

Deepika A. Chadha is the founder of COSMIC ASTRODEEP - A Healing Space, a UAE-based platform born from her journey of Seva and her desire to guide people towards clarity, hope and direction. What began with spiritual guidance and practices evolved into a space where people could seek support through life's challenges. Deepika especially connects with women, homemakers and families, understanding the emotional responsibilities they carry.

As a UAE-licensed Life Coach, Astrologer, Tarot Reader and Vastu Consultant, she combines astrology, intuitive guidance, spiritual practices and personalised guidance with a compassionate, practical approach. Through COSMIC ASTRODEEP, she supports individuals and families with relationships, family harmony, career, abundance, personal growth and life transitions, helping them gain perspective and find a clearer way forward. Deepika holds a Master's Degree in Electronics & Communication from Mumbai University and brings 20 years of experience as a professor, teaching and mentoring engineering students in Mumbai and Abu Dhabi.

Honoured as Astro-Spiritual Coach of the Year 2026, her journey reflects a simple belief: meaningful guidance should create clarity, confidence and positive change. “Maybe you're not lost... you're simply ready for a new direction.”

Managing Director of M PRO9 with more than 25 years across infrastructure, technology and sustainability. He connects waste data with practical decisions for smarter cities. Dasharath K, inventor of WASTRAQ - Universal Waste Tracking, has led the development of a platform connecting material traceability, operational monitoring, compliance and analytics.

Drawing on his work in urban development and environmental initiatives, he aims to make waste operations more transparent and data-driven. FROM WASTE DATA TO REVENUE & IMPACT GENERATE ENVIRONMENTAL CREDITS Generate EPR Credits and Carbon Credits from solid-waste-management activities, creating a potential additional revenue stream from verified environmental outcomes. AUTOMATE ESG & COMPLIANCE REPORTING Generate ESG, sustainability and compliance reports using digitally captured operational data, improving transparency, traceability and audit readiness.

AI-POWERED WASTE INTELLIGENCE Use our patent-pending AI Vision technology to identify waste composition, estimate potential material and credit revenue, confirm collections, and provide end-to-end traceability from source to final destination.

Pavithra C R founded M Pro9 Private Limited with a focus on technology, sustainability and environmental innovation. She encourages practical solutions shaped by communities, institutions, businesses and individuals working together. MRV & CIRCULAR ECONOMY INTELLIGENCE M Pro9 develops Monitoring, Reporting & Verification (MRV) software for circular-economy and environmental projects.

Its digital systems support data collection, real-time monitoring, material traceability, verification, compliance tracking and auditable reporting for municipalities and organizations. SUSTAINABLE TECHNOLOGY PARK M Pro9 is developing a Sustainable Technology Park focused on recovering and recycling plastics covered under EPR Categories I, II and III. The initiative supports municipalities, businesses and other organizations in improving plastic recovery, recycling, traceability and responsible resource management while enabling measurable environmental outcomes.

AI & ROBOTICS M Pro9 integrates Artificial Intelligence, automation and robotics into environmental and circular-economy operations. These technologies are being explored to improve material identification, sorting, operational efficiency, data intelligence, workforce productivity and scalable waste-management solutions.

Mr. Vikas Taneja is part of the Dubai Housing team at Honey Money Real Estates L.L.C. The firm, established in 2021, describes its work as a data-driven real estate advisory that helps clients navigate Dubai property decisions with market insight and individual attention. Dubai Housing serves buyers across major Dubai freehold communities, from entry-level residences to premium properties. Its experience covers both off-plan and secondary markets, with access to projects from leading developers.

The company emphasizes careful research, property comparisons and rigorous due diligence. The brokerage is RERA-registered and places importance on transparent documentation, client relationships and post-sale availability. Whether a buyer seeks a home or considers a wider investment portfolio, its advisory approach combines local market knowledge with a clear understanding of the client's priorities.

Working across Dubai and India, Vikas Taneja brings that client-focused approach to conversations about property opportunities in the UAE. His profile reflects the value of informed guidance and long-term relationships in a market with many choices.

Priyanka Singla is a Delhi-based lifestyle content creator known as @priyaankeraa. Her work brings together relatable storytelling, food, fashion and everyday moments. She began in 2021 with restaurant reviews and has since built a wider lifestyle platform with an engaged audience.

Starting with honest reviews, she expanded into fashion, travel, entertainment and culture while keeping the approachable voice that first connected her with followers. Her content turns familiar experiences into stories that invite discovery and conversation. Priyanka has collaborated with more than 50 brands across categories.

Her projects include an IIFA campaign and a festival shoot with Dubai Economy and Tourism, extending the reach of her work to an international audience. She has also worked with radio channels and Colors TV. These associations show her range across social media, entertainment and broadcast platforms, and her ability to connect with audiences in different settings.

Her warm, positive presence remains central to her work. Guided by perseverance and authenticity, Priyanka continues to share lifestyle stories that resonate with her community.

The UAE–India Business Leadership Excellence Award 2026 goes to Mr. Vijay S Singh. As Managing Director of Dafenix Services and Relyon HR & Management Consultancy, he connects business needs with workforce and people solutions. Dafenix’s work spans staffing, payroll support, HR processes and talent acquisition for UAE and India-related requirements. This award recognises his cross-border business leadership.

Serenity Home Real Estate FZ LLC receives the Best Real Estate Brokerage Company – 2026 recognition. Its Founder and CEO, CA Kanhaiya Rathi, CFA, represents the company and accepts the award on its behalf.

And now, our final honouree of the afternoon. The Excellence in Infrastructure and Real Estate Development – 2026 award goes to Mr. Ram Lakhan, CEO of Baba Projects Pvt. Ltd. The company’s work spans railway and civil infrastructure, while its Delta Square developments bring commercial spaces to Greater Noida. This recognition celebrates his leadership across infrastructure and real estate development.