The 100 NRIs – 2026: Dr. Dhananjay Datar, Chairman and Managing Director, Al Adil Trading

This article forms part of The 100 NRIs, a special edition by Entrepreneur Middle East spotlighting the most influential non-resident Indians shaping business, innovation, and investment across the region.

Dr. Dhananjay Datar is the visionary driving force behind the remarkable success of the Adil Group of Supermarkets, a name synonymous with trust and authenticity within the Gulf region’s ethnic retail sector. As Chairman and Managing Director, he has transformed a modest retail operation into a cultural institution that has become a reassuring link to home for generations of Indians residing in the UAE and across the GCC.

Fondly known as the “Masala King,” Dr. Datar’s leadership has cemented the brand’s reputation for delivering genuine Indian products characterised by quality, tradition, and community commitment. Beginning his entrepreneurial journey in 1984 by supporting his family’s small grocery store in Dubai, his deep understanding of community needs and cultural values propelled his vision.

Under his leadership, the Adil Group expanded significantly, now boasting over 50 outlets across the GCC, including two state-of-the-art spice factories and advanced flour mills. The extensive product range encompasses thousands of Indian food essentials, including spices, pulses, grains, flours, festive delicacies, sweets, and ready-to-cook items—ensuring Indian kitchens abroad remain stocked with authentic ingredients.

A key differentiator for the Adil Group is its pioneering focus on specialised vegetarian supermarkets, a concept that resonates strongly with families seeking purity, ethical sourcing, and authentic Indian cuisine. By maintaining rigorous quality standards while ensuring affordability, the brand has made genuine Indian food accessible to all segments of the community, reinforcing its role as a cultural and culinary lifeline.

Beyond its commercial achievements, Dr. Datar acts as a vital cultural ambassador for the Indian diaspora in the UAE. His initiatives foster a sense of community and cultural continuity, providing access to authentic products that help preserve traditions and strengthen bonds among expatriates.

His leadership has elevated the Adil Group beyond a retail chain; it has become a trusted institution symbolising cultural pride and unity. Dr. Datar’s strategic focus on innovation, including recent investments in digital platforms, continues to adapt the business to evolving consumer preferences. Through unwavering dedication, he has built not only a successful enterprise but also a community rooted in tradition, belonging, and cultural identity.