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Shroff’s life reflected a deep sense of responsibility and service
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In a fast-growing and diverse city like Dubai, he stood for stability, trust and community spirit
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His legacy lives on through the institutions he built and the countless lives he touched
The passing of Vasu Shroff at the age of 85 marks the end of a remarkable chapter in the history of the Indian community in the UAE. A respected businessman and generous community leader, Shroff spent more than six decades helping shape both Dubai’s commercial growth and its social fabric.
As chairman of the Regal Group, he played an important role in developing Dubai’s early retail and distribution sectors. However, his impact went far beyond business. Known for his humility, Shroff believed success should benefit society, and he quietly supported many initiatives that improved the lives of expatriates.
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Arriving in Dubai in 1961, when the city was still a small trading hub, he was among the first generation of Indian entrepreneurs to build opportunities from scratch
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Within a year, he helped establish The Indian High School, which began with just nine students in a small apartment
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Shroff even volunteered as a teacher, showing his early commitment to education. Today, the school serves over 16,000 students across multiple campuses
His contributions extended to religious and cultural life as well. He supported the development of the Hindu temple in Jebel Ali, helped set up cremation facilities for the community, and strengthened India Club Dubai as a cultural centre.
Business leaders and community figures have paid tribute to his legacy, describing him as a guiding figure known for integrity, kindness and wisdom. Many recalled his willingness to help others and his role as a mentor to younger generations.
