In a heartfelt tribute to a life dedicated to Dubai, 90-year-old Indian expatriate Haji N. Jamaluddin was recently presented with a special commemorative airport-entry stamp, 60 years after he first set foot in the emirate. The honour was granted by Dubai Airports, fulfilling a touching request from his son to mark a pivotal moment in their family’s shared history with the UAE.As reported by Gulf News, Jamaluddin arrived in Dubai from Mumbai on February 26, 1965, travelling by ship to a city still in its early days of development. What began as a journey of opportunity turned into a lifetime of service and deep community ties.“This new entry stamp isn’t just a mark in a passport, it’s a tribute to everything Dubai has given us,” said Jamaluddin, speaking to Gulf News. “My son wanted to honour the years I’ve spent here, and with the help of the Dubai Airports team, he made that possible.”Now a well-respected educator and community leader, Jamaluddin is the chairman and founder of Crescent English High School, an institution he established in 1984. The school has grown steadily under his leadership and today educates over 1,700 students, maintaining its reputation as one of the most affordable private schools in the UAE.Jamaluddin’s educational philosophy is rooted in values, not profit. He shared his guiding principle:“Money is not everything. Education is the best weapon for enlightenment.”For four decades, he has nurtured generations of students, driven by a deep-seated commitment to social upliftment and access to quality learning. His leadership and efforts have left a lasting mark on Dubai’s educational ecosystem.
Inspired by UAE’s Visionary Leadership
Throughout his journey, Jamaluddin has drawn inspiration from the UAE’s leadership, particularly the late Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum, who he recalls seeing visiting construction sites in the early mornings. This connection, he believes, shaped both his values and his deep bond with Dubai.“He was always among the people and now His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai is continuing that legacy. It’s what makes Dubai what it is today,” he reflected.This personal insight into the UAE’s visionary leadership underscores the emotional and symbolic significance of the commemorative gesture, a recognition of his enduring loyalty to the city.
Passing the Torch to Future Generations
As part of the celebrations, students from Crescent English High School were invited for a special educational tour of Dubai International Airport (DXB). Organised by Dubai Airports, the tour offered students a rare glimpse behind the scenes, showcasing how DXB plays a pivotal role in global connectivity.The visit was more than just a field trip; it served as a tribute to their founder’s legacy and an educational opportunity to understand the infrastructure that supports Dubai’s status as a global hub.