Businessman’s autobiography release today

Jamil Khan, Senior Reporter

The autobiography of renowned businessman and philanthropist, MV Kunhu Mohamed Haji, will be released on Saturday in Dubai.

Titled Thadagam, the book will be unveiled at a ceremony hosted at Credence High School, an institution developed as part of his educational initiatives.

Kunhu Mohamed Haji arrived in the Gulf in the late 1960s — well before the formation of the UAE — travelling by sea on a traditional sailboat (Pathemari), after leaving his native land.

He began his early career in the household of the Ruler of Ras Al Khaimah, before moving to Dubai, where he founded Jaleel Traders, the first step in what would become the diversified Jaleel Holdings Group.

The details were unveiled in a press conference held in its office located in Dubai attended by Kunhu Mohammed Haji, Chairman, Jaleel Holdings, Dr. Zakir K. Mohammed – Director, Jaleel Holdings and Faiyaz Ahmad, Chairman, Model Service Society (MSS) and others.

As one of the pioneering traders in the then Dubai Fruit and Vegetable Market, he played a pivotal role in shaping the emirate’s early trading landscape.

Rising from humble beginnings, he built a distinguished entrepreneurial journey rooted in perseverance, integrity, and service to the community.

Over the decades, Kunhu Mohammed Haji has been a committed supporter of social, educational and healthcare initiatives in both the UAE and India, transforming countless lives through his philanthropy.

Dr. Zakir K. Mohammed while talking to the media said that the autobiography of his father is in Malayalam language and the English version will out next month. “This book is the story of all ups and downs of an expatriate, who rose from a common job to establish a business, by dedicating his time and money to numerous philanthropy projects in India and the UAE, and by supporting under privilliged people in education, health and many other sectors,” he added.

Thadagam Foundation, a part of the group, will present the third edition of the Jaleel Cash & Carry Educational Scholarship.

Thirty students — children or siblings of employees working in UAE groceries, cafeterias, and restaurants — will be honoured for their outstanding performance in higher secondary examinations. The scholarship was launched in 2022, aiming to support deserving students from financially underprivileged expatriate families in pursuing higher education.

The winner of scholarship of this year will be provided full education scholarships to achieve their respective degrees.