A recent Mastercard study revealed that entrepreneurship is nearly equally embraced by both genders in the UAE, with 49 per cent of women and 47 per cent of men surveyed identifying as entrepreneurs, underscoring the country’s vibrant business landscape.
In light of these significant statistics, the Indian Business and Professional Council (IBPC Dubai) has introduced an innovative new membership category aimed at empowering women and young professionals.
Priced at just AED 500, this newly launched Affiliate Tier seeks to provide a robust platform for women of all ages and individuals under 45, offering them vital resources, mentorship, and networking opportunities to succeed in the UAE’s thriving business environment.
The new membership category reflects IBPC’s continued dedication to fostering a more inclusive business community, with a focus on diversifying leadership across various sectors. By providing an affordable membership option, IBPC aims to amplify emerging voices in business, enabling young and women entrepreneurs to access invaluable opportunities for growth. As businesses led by women and youth continue to fuel innovation and economic growth in the UAE, the Affiliate Tier serves as a vital tool to support this wave of transformation.
“The Affiliate Tier is a significant step in creating a more inclusive and dynamic business landscape. It represents IBPC’s commitment to ensuring that all entrepreneurs—especially women and youth—have the support, tools, and networks needed to excel,” said Siddharth Balachandran, Chairman of IBPC. “We are excited to see how this initiative will empower the next generation of leaders and contribute to the continued growth and success of our community. Women and youth bring fresh perspectives, creativity, and resilience that will drive innovation and inspire lasting change within the IBPC cadre. Additionally, with the removal of size-based distinctions for corporate members in favour of a benefits-based approach, we are ensuring greater flexibility and value for our members. Existing memberships will automatically be mapped to new tiers for a seamless transition, minimizing financial impact while keeping membership fees competitive. Our commitment to good governance remains steadfast, and we will continue to deliver sustained value through meaningful connections, opportunities, and insights.”
In addition to this new, cost-effective membership offering, IBPC has also adopted a more streamlined and inclusive approach to its broader membership categories. These tiers have been carefully crafted to cater to the diverse needs of professionals at various stages of their business journeys, ensuring they have access to the right resources, networks, and opportunities to succeed.
The Silver membership provides essential benefits such as voting rights, access to events, and participation in focus groups. The Gold membership offers additional perks, including exclusive event access, company spotlight features, and membership in advocacy platforms. For those seeking more tailored support, the Platinum membership includes customised event curation, speaking opportunities, and personalised advocacy interventions. At the top of this membership structure is the Diamond tier, an exclusive, lifetime membership that provides mentorship, access to premium business opportunities, and the chance to leverage IBPC’s extensive network in the UAE. This tier ensures members receive complete support and visibility in the region’s competitive business landscape.
“Together, these initiatives reflect IBPC’s unwavering commitment to fostering an inclusive, diverse, and dynamic business community in the UAE. By empowering women, youth, and professionals from all backgrounds, IBPC continues to drive the growth and success of its members, creating opportunities for the next generation of leaders to shine,” added the Chairman.
The announcement of this membership restructuring was made during a special Women’s Day event, where Mrs. Bubbles Kaur Khandari, Vice Chairman of the Guru Nanak Darbar Gurudwara, was honoured. The panel featured Dr. Nahla Abdul Razzaq Kazim, founder and CEO of Kazim’s Fertility Barza; educator and entrepreneur Ms. Chetna Buxani Shastri; and Siddhi Joshi, CEO of E-movers, with the session moderated by Ms. Neetu Chandra, CEO of Evolvitude. The event was hosted by branding and strategic communications consultant Stuti Sinha, with the opening address delivered by Ms. Jaya Mahalingam, Member and Director at Ideal Capital Management Consultants, Dubai. The vote of thanks was presented by Ms. Gomathi Seetharaman, health and wellness champion and Founder of Arogya Yatra. Haya Mashhood, philanthropy consultant, unveiled the new membership categories sharing pertinent details.
