Dubai Capitals Owners List 2025 – GMR Group

The Dubai Capitals are a prominent Twenty20 cricket franchise representing Dubai in the International League T20 (ILT20), one of the newest and most exciting cricket leagues in the world. Established in 2022, the franchise quickly garnered attention for its dynamic approach to the sport and its connection to Dubai, a global hub for innovation and entertainment. The team’s home ground is the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, a world-class facility that has hosted several iconic cricketing moments. With a seating capacity of 25,000, the stadium serves as a fortress for the Dubai Capitals, bringing together passionate fans and fostering a love for cricket in the United Arab Emirates (UAE).

The Dubai Capitals are part of a growing trend where cricket teams are not just about the sport but also represent global business ventures, brand development, and community engagement. Owned by the renowned GMR Group, the team stands out as an ambitious project aimed at enhancing the popularity of cricket in the UAE and beyond. This article delves into the ownership structure, goals, and vision of the Dubai Capitals while exploring their commitment to the sport.

About the Owners

The Dubai Capitals are owned by the GMR Group, an Indian multinational conglomerate headquartered in New Delhi, India. Established in 1978, GMR Group operates in diverse sectors, including energy, transportation, airports, and sports. Their foray into cricket franchise ownership began with the Delhi Capitals, a team in the Indian Premier League (IPL), which they co-own with the JSW Group.

Expanding its sports portfolio, GMR Group has invested heavily in international cricket leagues. Besides owning the Dubai Capitals, the group owns the Pretoria Capitals in South Africa’s SA20 league and has a stake in the Seattle Orcas in Major League Cricket (MLC), based in the United States. This strategic diversification demonstrates the group’s vision to build a global presence in cricket.

Who is Behind the GMR Group?

The GMR Group was founded by Grandhi Mallikarjuna Rao, a visionary entrepreneur whose business acumen has transformed the group into one of India’s leading conglomerates. Today, his son, Kiran Kumar Grandhi, serves as the Corporate Chairman, spearheading the group’s expansion into international markets. Kiran Kumar is particularly passionate about the sports vertical, seeing it as a platform to connect with younger generations and promote healthy lifestyles.

GMR Group’s ownership of cricket teams reflects their strategic intent to engage global audiences while fostering local talent. Their Dubai Capitals venture is no exception, designed to create a robust cricketing ecosystem in the UAE.

Comments from the Owners

The GMR Group has been vocal about their vision for the Dubai Capitals and their commitment to cricket. Speaking about their involvement in the ILT20, Kiran Kumar Grandhi stated:

“Cricket is a sport that unites millions of people across the globe. By investing in teams like the Dubai Capitals, we are contributing to the growth of the sport and creating opportunities for players, fans, and businesses to come together in a shared passion.”

He further added:

“We are focused on engaging with the global youth. Cricket is not just a sport; it’s a medium to inspire, entertain, and connect. Our efforts are geared toward building teams that resonate with audiences worldwide while staying true to the essence of the game.”

These comments highlight the owners’ forward-thinking approach and their ambition to make the Dubai Capitals a cornerstone of cricket in the UAE.

Their Goals

The GMR Group has set several objectives for the Dubai Capitals, both on and off the field. Their goals can be categorized into three primary areas:

1. Promoting Cricket in the UAE

The Dubai Capitals aim to be more than just a cricket team—they aspire to be a catalyst for the growth of the sport in the UAE. Cricket has a rich history in the region, largely driven by the expatriate population from cricket-loving nations such as India, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka. By establishing a strong team in the ILT20, the Dubai Capitals hope to inspire the next generation of cricketers in the UAE.

2. Building a Global Brand

With franchises in multiple leagues, GMR Group envisions creating synergies across its cricket teams. The Dubai Capitals are a key part of this strategy, serving as a bridge between the cricketing cultures of the East and the West. The group aims to leverage the Dubai Capitals’ brand to attract sponsors, engage fans, and build a global community of cricket enthusiasts.

3. Developing Emerging Talent

One of the Dubai Capitals’ core missions is to provide a platform for emerging cricketers to showcase their skills. By participating in a competitive league like ILT20, the team offers valuable exposure to young players, helping them prepare for international cricket. The franchise also collaborates with local academies to nurture talent from the grassroots level.

FAQs

Conclusion

The Dubai Capitals are more than just a cricket team; they represent a vision for the future of the sport. Under the ownership of the GMR Group, the franchise is poised to make a significant impact on cricket in the UAE and beyond. With a focus on promoting local talent, engaging global audiences, and building a robust cricketing ecosystem, the Dubai Capitals have set themselves apart as a franchise with purpose and ambition.

The team’s journey in the ILT20 is only beginning, but with the strong backing of the GMR Group, the future looks bright. Whether you’re a fan of cricket or someone interested in the business of sports, the Dubai Capitals are a name to watch. As they continue to grow and evolve, their impact on cricket in the UAE and the world will undoubtedly be profound.