A platform · A purpose · A promise
About UEF
A Premier Chamber of Commerce dedicated to the Economic, Educational, and Social Transformation of the Community and Society since 1979.
Our Vision
To emerge as a ‘Premier Forum’ for enabling the Backward Community and Society at Large to become ‘Inspirational & Formidable Contributors to the Nation and Beyond’ through Economic Enhancement, Education and Social Development.
Our Mission
- Become a Catalyst for Economic and Social Development
- Contribute towards Viksit Bharat – a developed India with a GDP of US$ 40 Trillion and Unnata Tamizhagam (உன்னத தமிழகம்-Inspirational Tamil Nadu - a US $4 Trillion Economy for Tamil Nadu by 2047
- Bring together 1,500 like minded businessmen, technocrats, professionals, Educational Institutions (EI's) Chambers, Associations, NGOs etc. and provide entrepreneurial support.
- Encourage 10x growth for members
- Provide Strategic and Financial Advisory Services to Member Organisations.
Leadership
Guided by visionaries committed to Nation-building.

Alhaj Late Dr. B.S. Abdur Rahman
Founder, UEF
Alhaj Late Dr. B.S. Abdur Rahman, a distinguished descendant of the legendary philanthropist Seethakkathi, was born in Keelakarai, Tamil Nadu in 1927. A visionary industrialist, eminent educationist, philanthropist, and social reformer, renowned for his remarkable contributions to education, business, infrastructure, and social development.
His lifelong dedication to education and social welfare led to the establishment of a vast network of educational and charitable institutions across Tamil Nadu including B.S. Abdur Rahman Crescent Institute of Science and Technology, Crescent School, Thassim Beevi Abdul Kader College for Women etc. These institutions educate over 18,000 students today.
Dr. B. S. Abdur Rahman was also a pioneering entrepreneur and industrialist. He established several companies including ECCI, ETA Ascon, Star Insurance, etc, which became major contributors to the economic development of the Middle East & India generating employment opportunities for thousands of people.
His companies were associated with the development of several landmark infrastructure projects in India and overseas, including Burj Khalifa in Dubai, Anna Flyover and Valluvar Kottam in Chennai, Delhi Metro etc.
His legacy continues to inspire generations, and his vision of empowering society through education, entrepreneurship, and philanthropy remains a lasting testament to a life dedicated to the betterment of humanity.

Mr. Ahmed A.R. Buhari
President, UEF & Trustee - BS Abdur Rahman Crescent Institute of Science and Technology.
"Integrity, Humility and purpose driven mindset should be built on for the betterment of the Society, Nation and Beyond."
Ahmed Buhari is the son of the founder of UEF and has been serving as its President since 2011. A dynamic entrepreneur, visionary leader, and philanthropist, he has played a pivotal role in shaping UEF into a prominent platform for economic empowerment, entrepreneurship, and community development.
He is the Founder of the C&O Group of Companies, which commissioned a 1,200 MW power plant in Tuticorin, Tamil Nadu, supplying approximately 6% of Tamil Nadu's power requirements. His entrepreneurial journey reflects his commitment to strengthening India's infrastructure and contributing to the nation's economic growth.
Ahmed Buhari serves as a Board Member of B. S. Abdur Rahman Crescent Institute of Science and Technology, Director of Buhari Holdings, Trustee of Seethakkathi Trust, Founder of Tuticorin Development Board and Keelakarai Town Development Trust, through which he has contributed towards Nation building.
He holds a Master's degree in Shipping, Trading and Finance from City St George's, University of London, and a degree in Marketing from Bentley University, Boston.
Ahmed Buhari is committed to positioning UEF as a premier Economic and Social forum fostering a strong, united, and progressive community that can emerge as a Formidable Contributor to the nation and beyond.
Board of Directors
12 leaders across industry, technology, and civil society.

Fathima Bathool Maluk
Director – UEF · Secretary & CEO
MASTer Group of Institutions

Mr. Tariq Akbar
Director, UEF
Co-CEO, LegalEase Solutions · Venture Partner, Dallas Venture

Mr. Naveed Khan
Director, UEF
Global Service Director – Project Management, Aracdis

Mr. S.K.M. Abdul Cader
Director, UEF
CEO – Kitchen House

Mr. Faizel Abdul Cader
Director, UEF
Director, Mohammed Sathak Trust & Group

Ms. Zainab Millwala
Director, UEF
CEO – Fermier Engineers · Co-Founder, Maheela Power
Good Economy Movement
Trade is not just about finance. Business is not just about transactions.
Good Economy is a shift. From deals to dignity, from growth at any cost to growth with values.
Integrity
over shortcuts
Trust
over tactics
Shared Success
over solo wins
At UEF, we believe good business uplifts people, strengthens communities, and creates lasting progress. This is the future we are shaping.
Chamber of Commerce Objectives
To function as a Chamber of Commerce for promoting Trade, Commerce and Industry.
To provide entrepreneurial support for existing members as also to encourage and mentor aspiring and budding ones.
To actively promote networking among members as well as other trade organisations.
To hold dialogue with government by providing feedback from the industry on policy matters.
To conduct market surveys and carry out economic research.
To organize Trade and Investment missions for members to explore investment and business development potential in India and globally.
To setup an Advisory & Investment Facilitation Cell for Facilitating Private Equity Finance including Shariah Compliant Funds.







