The passing of Gopichand Hinduja, Co-Chairman of the Hinduja Group, marks the loss of a remarkable visionary whose leadership transcended borders and industries.  The chairman of the Hinduja Group and one of Britain’s wealthiest businessmen died in London on Tuesday, November 4, at the age of 85, according to PTI. Fondly known as ‘GP’ in global business circles, Hinduja had been unwell for several weeks and passed away in a London hospital, said sources.

Under his stewardship, the Hinduja Group evolved into a diversified multinational conglomerate spanning automotive, energy, banking, infrastructure, and technology, with a growing footprint in the Gulf region, particularly in the UAE.

He recognised the UAE not just as a commercial hub, but as a key growth market and a platform for innovation and sustainability. His belief in the nation’s vision of economic diversification inspired strategic collaborations that strengthened local industries while deepening India’s enduring partnership with the Emirates.

Hinduja also acknowledged the region’s dynamic reforms and its emergence as the ‘Capital of Global Wealth,’ aligning perfectly with the Group’s guiding philosophy of ‘think local, act global.’ Under his direction, the UAE became an essential regional hub for the Hinduja Group’s business expansions across the Asia-Pacific and beyond.

One of the Group’s most promising ventures in the region is Switch Mobility, formed through the merger of Ashok Leyland’s electric vehicle division and the UK-based Optare. The company exemplifies Hinduja’s long-term vision for a greener, smarter future. In line with the UAE’s sustainability goals and Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, Switch Mobility had planned trial runs of its electric buses and light trucks in both countries this year, signalling a new era of sustainable mobility in the Middle East.

Hinduja’s influence was never confined to business. He believed deeply in “business with a purpose”, emphasising philanthropy, education, and community empowerment as integral parts of success. His humility, spirituality, and people-first leadership style earned him respect across continents.

As the UAE continues to evolve as a hub for innovation and sustainable development, Gopichand Hinduja’s legacy endures in every partnership, investment, and idea that bridges nations for a better tomorrow. 

Gopichand Hinduja leaves behind his spouse Sunita, two sons Sanjay and Dheeraj, and daughter Rita.

Sources: India Today, Gulf News, PTI

The UAE fuel price committee on Saturday announced petrol and diesel prices for the month of June 2025.The Fuel Prices Monitoring Committee has kept the prices unchanged from the month of May.

Super 98 petrol will cost Dh2.58 a litre, compared to Dh2.58 a litre in May, while Special 95 will cost Dh2.47 a litre, compared to Dh2.47 a litre the previous month.

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E-Plus category petrol will be available for Dh2.39 a litre, compared to Dh2.39 a litre in May, while diesel will now cost Dh2.45 a litre, compared to Dh2.52 a litre the previous month.

The UAE deregulated fuel prices in 2015, aligning them with market fluctuations.

Fuel prices in the UAE are tied to movements in the global oil market, which has experienced significant volatility since the beginning of the year.

The UAE is set to host the first-ever Arabian Gazelles Rally, an exclusive all-women’s driving event that blends luxury, adventure, and empowerment. 

Set to begin at the Dubai Autodrome, the event, taking place from April 30 – May 4, will see a group of international women drivers come together for a multi-day road trip across the country in their supercars. The official date and detailed route will be announced soon.

Organised by Arabian Gazelles, the region’s first female-only supercar club, the rally is more than just a driving experience, it’s a celebration of women who love the open road and high-performance cars.

Participants will drive across scenic routes covering deserts, mountains, and coastal highways. Along the way, they will enjoy several experiences, including luxury stays, gourmet dining, wellness activities, and networking sessions.

“This rally is about more than just horsepower. It’s about women claiming space, shifting the narrative, and driving the change they want to see, mile by mile,” organisers said.

The rally is open by invitation only and is expected to attract a mix of entrepreneurs, creatives, executives, and motoring enthusiasts from around the world.

To register for the race, go to www.arabiangazelles.com.

(Source: GN, arabiangazelles.com)