How a missed flight gave birth to UAE's Nikai brand

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How a missed flight gave birth to UAEs Nikai brand
Paras Shahdadpuri. Chairman, Nikai Group of Companies pose for a photograph at his office in Dubai

I feel as comfortable today in 2016 as I did in 1987.

by

A Staff Reporter

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Published: Sat 21 Jan 2017, 12:05 PM

Last updated: Sat 21 Jan 2017, 2:09 PM

Paras Shahdadpuri
Chairman of Nikai Group of companies
My first day and first hour in the UAE was most unexpected, unplanned and dramatic. I was travelling by Emirates airline from New Delhi to London where I had set up my new office after quitting my diplomatic career with the Indian Foreign Services.
I missed the connecting flight from Dubai to London. Now I look back and recognise it was all predestined. I recall this was in the year 1987.
I took the flight to London and after a few months wrapped up my business and returned to Dubai. Rest is history.
Looking back 30 years ago and today, there is a sea of change in the market size and conditions. Dubai then started from Al Ras area in Deira and ended farthest with Dubai Trade Centre. Beyond that was one or two-lane half-lit road.
And now, Downtown has shifted to Burj Khalifa area, New Dubai has grown far and wide all around the city. It is simply unbelievable! But interestingly, I must admit, the fundamental character of Dubai government remains the same. I feel as comfortable today in 2016 as I did in 1987.


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