The Inspiring Journey of MV Kunhu Mohamed: From Kerala to Dubai
MV Kunhu Mohamed’s story is a remarkable testament to perseverance and ambition. At just 22 years old, he left Kerala, India, without a passport or money, embarking on an adventure that would lead him to establish a thriving business empire in Dubai. In a candid interview, Mohamed shared insights into his extraordinary journey, illustrating the incredible determination that propelled him forward.
Beginnings on a Wooden Dhow
Mohamed’s odyssey began aboard a wooden dhow named Khwaja Moideen. He vividly recalls the transcontinental voyage, saying, “It took us forty days to reach the Oman coast. We relied solely on the wind and our faith.” The challenges he faced each day were daunting—shifting winds, temperamental seas, and the uncertainty of not knowing what lay ahead. Yet, hope was his constant companion.
Upon arriving near Dibba Al Baya in Oman, his first taste of land was surreal. He remembers plunging into the sea, despite having only a lungi and a shirt to his name. “Both were soaked through; I had to wring them out and wear them again,” he recounts. After some time at sea, Mohamed and his fellow travelers trekked to Khorfakkan, driven by the allure of “the land of opportunity.” His journey continued when he spotted a truck transporting watermelons, which provided him passage to Sharjah.
A New Life in the UAE
When he finally stepped foot in the United Arab Emirates, the landscape was remarkably different from what it is today. “Back home, we believed there was gold beneath this desert,” he shared. Initially, Mohamed found refuge with a friend whose Emirati employer welcomed him with open arms. “That kindness still resonates within Emirati culture today.”
From Assistant to Entrepreneur
Mohamed’s first job was as an assistant to a plumber, but it quickly became apparent that the role wasn’t a fit. “My hands would always sweat, making it challenging to grip the tools,” he explained. After a week, he was informally let go but still received his first salary of 100 qatar Dubai Riyal, a pivotal moment in his life.
Not one to shy away from hard work, he took on various jobs, including milking cows and cleaning utensils. His persistence and willingness to go the extra mile did not go unnoticed. While cleaning dishes, he took the initiative to wash and detail his employer’s car, which led to a pay increase. “When you exceed expectations, it makes a lasting impression,” he noted, a principle that has guided his career.
Connection to Leadership
A significant turning point in Mohamed’s life occurred when a friend introduced him to Sheikh Saqr bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, the ruler of Ras Al-Khaimah at the time. He became a driver for the Sheikh’s household, where he learned vital lessons in responsibility and trust. “They treated me with respect, and my accurate accounts allowed me to gradually venture into trading,” he explained. This experience laid the foundation for his business aspirations.
The Birth of Jaleel Holdings
In 1972, Mohamed officially founded his own company, initially named Jaleel Traders, later evolving into Jaleel Holdings. He fondly recalls how the Sheikh supported him financially when he had little to his name. “That trust has always stayed with me,” he emphasized. Under his leadership, the company has expanded far beyond its humble foodstuff trading beginnings to encompass fresh produce and FMCG distribution. Today, Jaleel Holdings employs approximately 1,700 individuals.
Reflecting on the Dubai of his early days, he reminisced, “When I started in Al Ras, there were only thirteen traders, and the community was tightly knit.” Throughout his entrepreneurial journey, one principle remained unwavering: timely payment for his workers. “I believe in giving the worker their wage before their sweat dries,” he stated, highlighting his commitment to employee welfare.
A Lifelong Dedication
Even at 79 years old, Mohamed remains engaged in his enterprise, not to work but to connect with his team. “Talking to them brings me joy,” he remarked. His life is now a blend of time spent between India and Dubai, incorporating routines that include yoga and quiet reflection. Gazing at the modern skyline, he often reflects on the dirt roads of the past, recognizing just how far both he and the nation have come. “Whenever I see the Arabian Sea,” he concludes, “I’m reminded of that initial leap into the unknown, which set my destiny in motion.”
