Paras Shahdadpuri

Shahdadpuri had a flourishing career as an Indian diplomat with international stints – regionally his postings included Saudi Arabia and Libya.

But by the late eighties, he decided to leave the foreign service and instead set up his own commodity trading business.

On a flight back from London in 1987, he missed his connecting flight to India at Dubai airport, and ventured out for a day visit to the emirate. Enamoured by its potential, he set up Nikai Group in the emirate.

Today, the company has interests in electronics, IT, home appliances, retail food chains and FMCG, with an annual turnover reportedly close to Dhs2bn. Winner of the prestigious Bharat Shiromani award, Shahdadpuri is also known for his philanthropic efforts.