Hanif Shaikh: Conquering New Heights in Business and Fashion

From Mumbai to the Middle East: A Journey of Vision and Success

Hanif Shaikh, the Chairman and Founder of Emirates Holding Group, has emerged as a key player in the business and fashion industries in the Middle East. His journey from Mumbai to Dubai exemplifies resilience, vision, and an unwavering drive to excel.

Early Life and Career Beginnings

Born and raised in Mumbai, India, Hanif’s entrepreneurial spirit was evident early on. After earning his MBA in marketing, he saw the Middle East as the ideal place to launch his career. In 1995, he moved to Saudi Arabia and later to Oman, where he gained significant experience in advertising and events. This foundational experience set the stage for his future successes.

Establishing Emirates Holding Group

In 2005, Hanif founded Emirates Holding Group in Dubai. Over the years, the company has grown into a consortium with operations spanning the Middle East, Africa, South Asia, and Europe. The group offers services across various sectors, including oil and gas, investment funding, trading, and gold mining. Hanif’s leadership has been instrumental in shaping the company into a well-respected entity in the region.

Ventures in Event Management and Fashion

Recognizing the potential of Dubai as a hub for global commerce, Hanif expanded into event management. He has organized over 500 events, Exhibitions and festivals including prominent fashion shows and trade expos. 

Awards and Recognition

Hanif’s contributions have been widely recognized. In 2023, he received the Pride of UAE award at the Global Business Symposium for his exceptional achievements in enhancing the UAE’s global commerce status.Also has Received Golden Excellence Award for Excellence in Business & Fashion Felicitated by 

H.H. Sheikh Nahayan Mabarak Al Nahaya

Cabinet Minister of Tolerance and Coexistence, UAE. His involvement in the fashion industry has also earned him accolades, reflecting his influence and commitment to excellence.

Vision for the Future

Looking ahead, Hanif plans to further diversify his business ventures and expand his reach in the fashion industry. He envisions hosting major international events and fostering global partnerships, with a focus on continuous growth and innovation. He has Launched Don Cinema- Dubai and Produced and acted in his our own Web series.

A Personal Journey of Resilience and Innovation

Hanif’s personal journey is marked by significant milestones. He began working at the age of 17 as an advertising executive for a news magazine, quickly rising to the position of advertising manager. His career took a pivotal turn in 1995 when he moved to Saudi Arabia, and then to Oman in 1996, where he became self-employed in the advertising and events sector. In 2000, he relocated to Dubai, taking on the role of Director General at Expo Centre Fujairah until 2008, during which he organized more than 500 exhibitions, festivals, and events. In 2005, he formed Emirates Holding Group, and by 2008, he dedicated himself full-time as its chairman. Today, the group has a strategic presence worldwide, excelling in various industries.

Dreams and Aspirations

Hanif’s dream has always been to create a lasting impact through innovative business ventures that contribute positively to society. Inspired by his parents’ entrepreneurial spirit, Hanif was driven by curiosity and a relentless pursuit of his ambitions. His childhood memories are filled with moments of exploration and learning, which have significantly influenced his journey.

Finding Joy in Work

Hanif is deeply passionate about his work in the corporate world, particularly in business development and strategy. What he enjoys most is tackling complex challenges, innovating, and making a meaningful impact on a global scale. The satisfaction of seeing his vision come to fruition and witnessing the positive impact on stakeholders, employees, and communities worldwide is the most rewarding aspect of his career.

Personal Philosophy and Influences

Over the years, Hanif’s personal philosophy has evolved through experiences, learning, and introspection. Initially driven by ambition, he now emphasizes balance, integrity, and purpose. Significant influences on his worldview include his upbringing, exposure to diverse cultures, and continuous learning. These factors have shaped his approach to leadership, emphasizing empathy, humility, and ethical conduct.

Lessons from Challenges

One significant challenge that taught Hanif a valuable lesson was a career setback due to unforeseen project challenges. This experience highlighted the importance of resilience. Hanif learned to embrace failures as opportunities for growth, leading to a positive mindset towards challenges and a commitment to continuous improvement.

Finding Meaning and Purpose

For Hanif, finding meaning and purpose is a continuous journey. Practices such as mindfulness, self-care, and setting meaningful goals help him stay grounded and focused. Engaging in philanthropic activities and making a positive impact on others also bring him immense fulfillment.

Balancing Life and Work

Hanif prioritizes balance by setting clear boundaries, delegating tasks, and practicing effective time management. He ensures dedicated time for work, family, and personal pursuits, aligning his actions with his core values and beliefs.

A Gratitude for Dubai

Hanif finds Dubai’s multicultural environment enriching. The city has provided endless opportunities for personal and professional growth, aligning with his values and aspirations. He expresses gratitude for the welcoming and dynamic environment of Dubai.

Ultimate Dream

Hanif’s ultimate dream is for his family to lead fulfilling lives while making a positive impact on others. He prioritizes financial security, quality time with loved ones, personal growth, and advocacy for education, entrepreneurship, and environmental sustainability.

Advice for Success

Hanif advises those seeking success to stay focused on their goals, remain resilient, and never stop learning. Success is a journey, and staying committed, adaptable, and true to one’s dreams is essential.

Additional Insights

Cultivating gratitude and mindfulness significantly enhances well-being and resilience. Hanif’s journey from Mumbai to becoming a prominent figure in Dubai’s business and fashion sectors is a testament to his vision and determination. His ability to transform challenges into opportunities has made him a respected leader and an inspiration to many. As he continues to push boundaries and set new standards, Hanif remains a beacon of success and innovation.