Dubai businessman Abdul Wahid Al Rostamani passes away

Dubai businessman Abdul Wahid Al Rostamani, the influential founder and chairman of Abdul Wahid Rostamani Group, passed away this morning, the company said.

The 83-year-old died “suddenly and unexpectedly” at Rashid Hospital in Dubai, a company statement read.

The group said its offices and showrooms would remain closed today in response to the event with business resuming on Sunday November 6.

“It is with great sadness that we announce today the passing of a father and leader Abdul Wahid Rostamani. He was incredibly proud of AW Rostamani Group and all of its employees, and we will all miss him greatly,” said AW Rostamani Automotive CEO Michel Ayat.

“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 was founded in the early 50s and has grown to become a conglomerate of 14 companies across the automotive, real estate and construction, retail, logistics, information technology, travel and consultancy industries.

Rostamani’s funeral will be held on Friday and continue until Sunday at the residence on Al Athar Street in Dubai, according to Gulf News.