From the humble abodes of Maharashtra to the glitzy skyscrapers of Dubai, Dr. Zulekha Dawood’s life story is a blend of resilience, determination, and vision. Born into a family where making ends meet was a daily challenge, Zulekha’s rise to becoming the richest Indian woman in Dubai is nothing short of inspirational.
Humble Beginnings in Maharashtra
84-year-old Dr. Zulekha Dawood’s early life was defined by hardships. Born into a financially constrained family in Maharashtra, her father, a daily wage laborer, battled the odds daily to ensure sustenance for his family. Despite their circumstances, Zulekha’s ambition and dreams were never dimmed.
Pioneering Medical Services in UAE
Upon completing her medical studies, Dr. Zulekha ventured to the UAE in 1964. This move was not just about expanding her horizons, but also pioneering a path: she became the first Indian doctor to start practicing medicine in the UAE. With a passion for her profession and a commitment to service, she remarkably delivered over 10,000 babies in Dubai, cementing her legacy in the medical fraternity.
Establishing Zulekha Hospital Group
The early days of her medical career in Dubai were marked by limited facilities and technology. Recognizing this gaping void and driven by a vision to provide advanced healthcare services, Dr. Zulekha Dawood founded the Zulekha Hospital Group in 1992. Her institution wasn’t just a business venture; it was a beacon of hope and health for countless individuals.
Accolades and Recognition
Dr. Zulekha Dawood, with her six decades of service, is more than just a successful businesswoman; she’s a symbol of dedication and perseverance. Today, at the age of 84, she chairs the Zulekha Hospital Group. Her exemplary contributions to the medical field and the Indian diaspora didn’t go unnoticed. In 2019, she was honored with the prestigious Pravasi Bharatiya Samman Award, bringing her into the limelight once again.
Zulekha Hospital Group’s Soaring Success
Today, the Zulekha Hospital Group stands tall as a testament to Dr. Zulekha’s foresight and determination. With an annual revenue that touches a staggering $440 million, approximately Rs 3662 crore, the Group’s success story reverberates far and wide.
Dr. Zulekha Dawood’s narrative is a profound reminder that our beginnings don’t define our ends. From a laborer’s daughter in Maharashtra to the pinnacle of success in Dubai, her journey exemplifies the boundless potential that determination, vision, and hard work can unlock.