AW Rostamani chairman dies in Dubai hospital at age 83

Mr Al Rostamani grew his small business into one of the UAE's largest and best-known business groups.

Abdul Wahid Al Rostamani grew his business from a small operation to one of the most influential conglomerates in the UAE. Charles Crowell for The National.

Abdul Wahid Al Rostamani, one of the UAE’s most influential businessmen, has died at the age of 83.

Mr Al Rostamani, the chairman of business conglomerate AW Rostamani, based in Dubai, passed away “suddenly and unexpectedly” yesterday morning at Dubai’s Rashid Hospital, according to a statement.

He was to be buried yesterday evening at Al Quoz cemetery in Dubai, in accordance with Islamic custom.

A statement from the company said: “He was a professional who aligned with the vision of his nation and sought to contribute towards making the story of the UAE a successful one.”

Starting out in his early twenties with a small book store in Dubai, Mr Al Rostamani gradually expanded his business into one of the UAE’s largest and best-known business groups, with interests in the automotive, real estate, construction, lifestyle, travel and logistics ­sectors.

The company employs some 4,000 professionals.

The group is perhaps best known as the owner of Arabian Automobiles, the sole distributor for Nissan, Infiniti and Renault vehicles in Dubai and the Northern Emirates.

“It is with great sadness that we announce today the passing of a father and leader Abdul ­Wahid Rostamani.

AW Rostamani Automotive chief executive Michel Ayat said, “He was incredibly proud of AW Rostamani Group and all of its employees, and we will all miss him greatly.”

“His drive to excellence, determination, can-do spirit and commitment to everyone in this organisation and it will inspire and stay with us always.

“On behalf of our board of directors, executive management team and employees, we mourn his loss and extend our deepest sympathies to his family.” AW Rostamani offices and showrooms were closed yesterday as a mark of respect, and will ­reopen on Sunday.

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