An 18-year-old Indian expatriate student, Vaishnav Krishnakumar, passed away unexpectedly in Dubai, just a day after Diwali. The teenager, who was a UAE Golden Visa recipient and a first-year BBA Marketing student at Middlesex University Dubai, reportedly suffered a cardiac arrest late on Tuesday evening outside his home.
A bright scholar and leader
Vaishnav was a distinguished alumnus of GEMS Our Own Indian School, where he had graduated in the 2024–25 batch. A circular issued by the school, accessed by local media, read:“It is with deep sorrow that we share the heartbreaking news of the sudden passing of our ex-student and former Head of School Council, Vaishnav Krishnakumar (Batch of 2024-25), last night.” The circular further noted that the school community was deeply saddened and that upcoming school activities were being adjusted in his memory. Pink Day on October 23 would now be quietly observed at a later date, while The Family First Carnival was postponed to November 8, and Open House events were rescheduled for different grade levels.
University and community tributes
Middlesex University Dubai, where Vaishnav was enrolled in his first year, paid tribute to him in a statement to Khaleej Times: “It is with profound sadness that we share the heartbreaking news of the passing of Vaishnav Krishnakumar, a valued member of our student community. Vaishnav was an exemplary student, respected for his academic contributions and admired for his kindness, humility, and the warmth he brought to those around him.His loss has deeply affected our entire community, and he will be remembered with great fondness and respect. We extend our heartfelt condolences to the Krishnakumar family during this difficult time. Our thoughts are with them, and we remain committed to offering any support we can.” According to reports, Vaishnav collapsed during Diwali celebrations at Dubai International Academic City on October 21. He was immediately taken to the hospital, but despite efforts to revive him, doctors declared him dead on arrival.
Academic excellence and achievements
Originally from Kunnamkulam in Thrissur district, Kerala, Vaishnav had earned distinction for his academic achievements. He scored 97.4 percent in the 2024 CBSE Class 12 Board Examinations, securing A1 grades in all subjects and a perfect 100 marks in Marketing and Entrepreneurship. His outstanding performance earned him the UAE Golden Visa for exceptional students. Beyond academics, Vaishnav was active in leadership and extracurricular activities. According to his LinkedIn profile, he held multiple roles in the Model United Nations (MUN) circuit — starting as a delegate and chair, later becoming Vice-President and eventually President, mentoring younger participants and leading conferences. He also gained early professional experience through internships at Kendal AI and Uniplus in Dubai, working across social media marketing, sales, and client engagement. His interests extended to entrepreneurship and digital business strategy, reflecting a strong inclination toward innovation and leadership.
A balanced and inspiring life
Friends and teachers described Vaishnav as disciplined, optimistic, and inspiring. He maintained an active presence on social media, where he shared motivational content, fitness routines, and financial advice, earning admiration for his positivity and balance between physical and mental well-being. His parents, V. G. Krishnakumar and Vidhu Krishnakumar, who works as a teacher at GEMS Our Own Indian School, said that Vaishnav had no known underlying heart conditions and that he was particular about regular exercise and wellness. He is also survived by his younger sister, Vrishti.
Final farewell
Repatriation arrangements are currently underway, and Vaishnav’s body will be flown to Kerala for the final rites. His sudden passing has left a void in the academic and expatriate communities in Dubai, where he was celebrated not only as a top-performing student but also as a young leader with promise and purpose.
