Haanif Shaikh: Shaping Luxury, Culture, and Global Influence

luxevariemagazine
Aug 2
2 min read

Dubai | Mumbai

From the vibrant pulse of Mumbai to the futuristic skyline of Dubai, Haanif Shaikh has emerged as one of the Gulf’s most visionary figures in luxury, fashion, and entrepreneurship. As Founder and Chairman of Emirates Holding Group, his story is one of bold ambition, creative innovation, and enduring impact across continents.

A Journey from Purpose to Power

Raised in a humble household in Mumbai, Haanif’s early life was marked by discipline, vision, and resilience. After earning his MBA in marketing, he built his foundation in Saudi Arabia and Oman before making the pivotal move to the UAE. In 2005, he launched Emirates Holding Group, laying the cornerstone of what would become a dynamic, multi-sector empire.

Today, the group operates across the Middle East, South Asia, Africa, and Europe, encompassing industries such as:

Oil & Gas
Gold Mining
Cryptocurrency
Film & Entertainment
E-Commerce
Eco & Sustainable Products

Under his leadership, the group merges commercial achievement with cultural and environmental consciousness.

Defining the Luxury Event Landscape

With more than 500 high-profile events to his name, Haanif has become a cultural architect in the Gulf. From international expos and festivals to fashion galas and government collaborations, he has helped elevate the region's prestige on the global stage.

His signature productions include:

Women of the Universe
The Fashion Factor
Global Model Fashion League (GMFL)
International Fashion Gala

A producer, investor, judge, and mentor—his creative leadership has shaped the careers of hundreds of emerging designers and models.

The Eternal Runway – A Statement of Style and Purpose

One of 2025’s defining moments was the Emirates Luxury Show, hosted by Emirates Luxury Hub at Marriott Al Jaddaf, Dubai. Titled The Eternal Runway, the show featured:

10 acclaimed designers
40 global models
A celebration of couture, cultural storytelling, and sustainability

The event reinforced Haanif’s commitment to fashion diplomacy, showcasing Dubai as a beacon of artistic fusion and luxury innovation.

Honors that Reflect Purpose

Haanif’s accolades reflect not only achievement but legacy. Among over 100 awards, notable recognitions include:

Pride of UAE Award (Global Business Symposium, Abu Dhabi 2023)
Golden Excellence Award in Business & Fashion (Presented by HH Sheikh Nahayan Mabarak Al Nahyan)

These honors recognize his contribution as both a business leader and cultural innovator.

Vision Beyond the Runway

Through his platforms—Emirates Awards, The Fashion Factor International, Energitech Grin, and Emirates Luxury Show—Haanif continues to empower creative industries. His presence on social media, especially Instagram, bridges emerging talent with global opportunities, giving audiences front-row access to fashion’s elite.

Whether speaking in interviews or mentoring behind the scenes, Haanif shares a consistent message: success is built on perseverance, reinvention, and a deep respect for community.

More Than a Name—A Movement

From being one of the first non-nationals to serve as Director-General of the Fujairah Exhibition Centre, to becoming a pillar of the UAE’s business and fashion ecosystem, Haanif Shaikh’s legacy is one of transformative leadership.