Balvinder Singh Sahni, widely known as “Abu Sabah,” was once celebrated as a symbol of opulence in Dubai. As the founder and chairman of the RSG Group of Companies, Sahni claimed a net worth of approximately $2 billion, with significant investments in real estate and hospitality across the UAE, the United States, and South Asia.
Sahni’s extravagant lifestyle garnered media attention, notably in 2016 when he purchased a single-digit vehicle license plate for nearly $9 million (AED 33 million), showcasing his wealth. His Palm Jumeirah mansion, adorned with gold-plated interiors, and his collection of luxury cars further cemented his image as a billionaire tycoon.
However, in May 2025, Sahni’s empire unraveled when Dubai’s Fourth Criminal Court convicted him of operating a sophisticated money laundering network involving shell companies and suspicious cross-border financial transactions. He was sentenced to five years in prison, fined AED 500,000, and ordered to forfeit AED 150 million in assets. Following his sentence, Sahni is to be deported from the UAE. 
The conviction has cast doubt on the legitimacy of Sahni’s proclaimed wealth. While he was previously estimated to be worth $2 billion, the legal proceedings and asset confiscations have introduced uncertainties regarding his actual financial standing. The future of the RSG Group also remains uncertain, with potential implications for its operations and financial stability.
Sahni’s downfall serves as a cautionary tale about the perils of unchecked opulence and the importance of financial transparency. His story underscores the need for rigorous scrutiny in the business world, reminding us that appearances can be deceiving.
