Dubai’s ‘Textile King’ Vasu Shroff dies at 85

Vasu Shroff, a prominent Indian-origin entrepreneur known for building one of Dubai’s early textile retail networks, died at his home in Satwa on Sunday morning. He was 85.

Community representative Gopal Kokani said Shroff passed away between 7:30am and 8:00am. His last rites are scheduled for Monday, April 27, at around 4:30pm at the New Sonapur cremation grounds in Dubai. The family has asked for privacy and indicated that the cremation ceremony will be attended by men only.

Shroff’s association with the Gulf dates back to the 1950s, when he travelled by sea from Mumbai to Sharjah, then part of the Trucial States. He initially worked in his family’s textile trade before establishing his own venture in Dubai. He later set up Regal Traders, which began as a single outlet in Bur Dubai and gradually expanded into a multi-location business with 16 stores and offices across several countries.

Over the decades, Shroff became a respected figure in Dubai’s business circles, particularly in the textile sector. He was widely credited with contributing to the growth of the city’s retail landscape during its early development years.

Beyond his commercial success, Shroff was also known for his involvement in community and philanthropic initiatives. He supported educational institutions such as The Indian High School in Dubai and contributed to organisations including the India Club. His charitable work extended internationally, with funding directed towards schools, healthcare facilities, and religious institutions, including Hindu temples in the UAE.

Tributes poured in from business leaders following news of his death. Yusuffali MA, chairman of Lulu Group, described Shroff as an early contributor to the UAE’s economic growth.

“A true pioneer of the UAE’s business community. His journey and achievements have inspired generations of Indian entrepreneurs who came to the UAE and made it their home,” Yusuffali said, adding that Shroff would be remembered for both his business achievements and his contributions to society.