In 1967, a 22-year-old Kunhu Mohamed embarked on a life-changing journey from his hometown in Thrissur, India, to the UAE. With no passport, money, or certainty about the future, he boarded a wooden dhow named Khwaja Moideen, relying solely on faith and the wind to guide him. After a grueling 40-day voyage, he arrived near Dibba Al Baya in Oman, where he began his new life. From there, he made his way to Sharjah, a land of opportunity still in its infancy, with unpaved roads and endless possibilities. Mohamed’s early years in the UAE were marked by hard work and perseverance. He took on various jobs, from assisting a plumber to milking cows, always striving to do more than expected. His dedication caught the attention of Sheikh Saqr bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, the then Ruler of Ras Al Khaimah, who employed him as a driver. This marked a turning point in Mohamed’s life. With the Sheikh’s support, he ventured into business, eventually founding Jaleel Holdings, a thriving enterprise in the foodstuff and FMCG distribution sector. Today, at 79, Mohamed continues to inspire with his humility and commitment to his employees. He attributes his success to faith, hard work, and the generosity of the UAE and its people. His story is a testament to the transformative power of determination and the opportunities that the UAE has offered to countless expatriates over the decades.