Dubai (Commonwealth Union)_ Dubai bid farewell to the titan of industry and philanthropy as Indian-origin Dr. Ram Buxani, the venerable chairman of ITL Cosmos Group, passed away at the age of 83. His journey from arriving in the UAE with just five rupees to building a billion-dirham business empire stands as a testament to his indomitable spirit and unwavering dedication. Dr. Buxani’s odyssey began in November 1959 when he set foot on UAE shores as an 18-year-old with dreams as vast as the horizon before him. Through sheer determination and tireless effort, he transformed a modest beginning into a sprawling conglomerate spanning diverse sectors such as hospitality, IT, and F&B, leaving an indelible mark on Dubai’s economic landscape.
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Beyond his business intelligence, Dr. Buxani was a pillar of philanthropy and community leadership. His contributions extended far beyond boardrooms, as evidenced by his pivotal roles in charitable organizations such as the Al Noor Training Centre for Persons with Disabilities and his substantial donations to humanitarian causes, including a notable contribution of Rs6 million to the Gujarat earthquake victims in 2011. Some of his other charity works, memberships, and contributions to the society are President of Rotary Club of Jumeirah (Dubai); Permanent Trustee of Indian Institute of Sindhology, Adipur; Director of Chinmaya International Residential School, Coimbatore; Founder chairman of the Overseas Indians Economic Forum (UAE); Member of India Club; Founder of the Indian Business and Professional Council; and Founder and chairman of Indian High School.
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As a multifaceted personality, Dr. Buxani was not content with only amassing wealth. Instead, he ardently believed in giving back to society. His leadership in founding institutions like the Indian Business and Professional Council (IBPC) and his stewardship as chairman of the Indian High School underscored his commitment to fostering cultural exchange and educational advancement within the community. Additionally, in recognition of his contributions, Dr. Buxani was among the first businessmen to be awarded the prestigious Golden Visa in 2019, a testament to his enduring impact on bilateral relations between the UAE and India. His influence extended beyond business corridors into cultural realms, as evidenced by his active involvement in the India Club and his role as a trustee of the Indian Institute of Sindhology, Adipur.
Reflecting on his remarkable journey in an interview, Dr. Buxani expressed gratitude for Dubai’s transformative opportunities, describing it as a place where dreams could flourish with perseverance. He witnessed Dubai evolve from sand dunes into a global technological hub, and his insights into the city’s growth mirrored his own transformative journey from immigrant entrepreneur to esteemed chairman. Furthermore, colleagues and friends remember him not only for his business acumen but also for his warmth and generosity. Suresh Kumar, a longtime associate, described Dr. Buxani as a “complete person,” emphasizing his deep familial bonds and his broader embrace of the community.
Dr. Buxani’s untimely demise leaves a void in both business circles and community initiatives, with Paras Shahadadpuri of Nikai Group lamenting the loss of a visionary leader and a cherished friend. His biography, ‘Taking the High Road,’ serves as a beacon for aspiring entrepreneurs, encouraging them to embrace challenges with resilience and to view success not merely as a destination but as a continuous journey of growth and learning. As the UAE mourns the loss of a stalwart, Dr. Ram Buxani’s legacy as a pioneering entrepreneur, a devoted philanthropist, and a compassionate community leader remains etched in the annals of Dubai’s history. His life’s work exemplifies the boundless opportunities that Dubai offers to those who dare to dream and strive for excellence. In the words of Dr. Buxani himself, “Be like a bird — soar and explore.” His enduring legacy will continue to inspire generations, bridging cultures, fostering prosperity, and embodying the spirit of Dubai’s remarkable journey from past to present and into the future.
