From AED 1,500 Salary to Million-Dirham Success: Dubai Accelerates Entrepreneurial Journey of Ayurvedic Therapist Santhosh Kunjumon

Dubai has become a beacon for those seeking to transform their lives through hard work and determination. Santhosh Kunjumon, an Ayurvedic therapist who arrived in the city in 2012 with a monthly salary of AED 1,500, exemplifies this journey. Today, he owns an Ayurvedic health center and is a partner in two others, achieving an annual turnover that exceeds one million dirhams.

Kunjumon emphasizes the importance of adhering to government regulations, stating that Dubai is an ideal place for business if one follows the established rules. His success story aligns with Dubai’s vision of fostering growth for those willing to put in the effort. The city has provided him with essential support, including financial discounts during the COVID-19 pandemic and clear regulations that promote a healthy business environment.

Early Life and Career Path

Born in 1981 in a small village in Kerala, India, Kunjumon’s early life was relatively comfortable. However, everything changed when his father was diagnosed with cancer in 1991, placing significant financial and emotional strain on the family. Despite these challenges, he completed his higher secondary education and chose to pursue Ayurvedic therapy, a decision that would shape his future.

In search of better opportunities, Kunjumon worked in various locations across northern India and later in Mauritius. He eventually arrived in Dubai in 2012, initially working as a masseur. His commitment to hard work and patient care became the cornerstone of his professional identity.

Financial Discipline and Entrepreneurial Spirit

Kunjumon’s disciplined approach to saving has been pivotal in his entrepreneurial journey. He practices strict financial management, stating that if he earns 100 dirhams, he sets aside 50 and never touches it. This financial prudence laid the groundwork for future investments.

In 2020, during the peak of the COVID-19 pandemic, Kunjumon, along with his brother and sister-in-law—both in the same profession—decided to pool their resources. Rather than retreating in the face of adversity, they combined their savings and experience, along with a partner’s financial backing, to establish an Ayurvedic medical center in Dubai.

Kunjumon describes the process as straightforward, highlighting that they meticulously followed all regulations to secure the necessary licenses and authorizations. The financial incentives offered by Dubai significantly aided their efforts.

Building a Team and Expanding Horizons

Today, Kunjumon leads a team of 54 employees across three Ayurvedic medical centers in Dubai, with plans for further expansion. He attributes his success to the collective effort of his team, stating that hard-working and satisfied employees are essential for a thriving business. He acknowledges the diversity of employee motivations and emphasizes the importance of recognizing individual strengths and weaknesses.

Kunjumon maintains a practical approach to human resources, understanding that not all employees will be dedicated. He believes that the true strength of any company lies in its committed workforce.

A Simple Life Guided by Values

Despite his success, Kunjumon leads a modest lifestyle. He spends minimally on leisure and entertainment, with his total monthly expenses, including trips to India, amounting to AED 4,900. His grounded perspective is rooted in the lessons learned during his childhood, where he valued the wisdom shared by elders.

He reflects on the notion that money cannot buy happiness, stating that the joy of seeing his family smile is his greatest reward. His unwavering faith in God and adherence to core values guide his decisions and family life.

For Kunjumon, Dubai has not only served as a platform for opportunity but has also been a partner in his entrepreneurial journey, enabling him to transform hard work into lasting success.

For further insights into this inspiring story, visit Emirates247.

Read all the latest developments and breaking updates in the Latest News section.

Published on 2026-05-25 08:14:00 • By the Editorial Desk