Celebrating a Legacy: Haji N Jamaluddin’s Journey Through Six Decades in Dubai
Haji N Jamaluddin, a remarkable Indian expatriate, made his arrival into Dubai’s bustling life on February 26, 1965, traveling from Mumbai by ship. Little did he know that this journey would not only mark the beginning of his own chapter but also significantly influence the educational landscape of the United Arab Emirates (UAE).
A Special Welcome After 60 Years
Fast forward six decades, and on the anniversary of his arrival, the 91-year-old educator and founder of Crescent English High School received a token of appreciation from Dubai Airports—a commemorative immigration stamp. This gesture was especially significant as Jamaluddin had never received an official entry stamp when he first arrived, owing to the city’s nascent state in the 1960s.
When Jamaluddin set foot in Dubai, it was a time before the establishment of immigration processes, with the port of entry still in its infancy. His son, Dr. Riyas Jamaluddin, aspired to rectify this absence by acquiring a new UAE entry stamp for his father. “This new entry stamp isn’t just a mark in a passport, it’s a tribute to everything Dubai has given us,” Jamaluddin remarked, expressing gratitude for the recognition.
A Heartwarming Family Story
The journey towards this special immigration stamp started with an unexpected email from Dr. Riyas to Paul Griffiths, the CEO of Dubai Airports. Initially intended to request more seating in prayer rooms, the message pivoted to a heartfelt appeal for his father’s stamp. To Dr. Riyas’s surprise, his simple request blossomed into an extraordinary recognition of his father’s legacy.
Weeks later, they were invited to the CEO’s office, where the stamp was ceremoniously presented with the year “1965” inscribed—an emotional moment for the family. Dr. Riyas recalled, “He is a man of few words, and I didn’t show a lot of emotion, but I know that it made him very happy.”
Continuing a Legacy in Education
Since the establishment of Crescent English High School in 1984, Jamaluddin has dedicated his life to empowering thousands of students with knowledge. Today, the school, located in Al Qusais, accommodates over 1,700 students while maintaining one of the most affordable fee structures in the UAE, with annual fees starting at just Dh3409.
His educational philosophy is refreshingly straightforward: “Money is not everything. Education is the best weapon for enlightenment.” This ethos stems from his belief that every child deserves access to education, regardless of their financial background.
Giving Back to the Community
Jamaluddin’s vision was deeply influenced by the late Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum’s focus on community welfare. Dr. Riyas shared how his father often reminisced about Sheikh Rashid’s commitment to building affordable housing for lower-income families, allowing them to lead comfortable lives. This inspiration resonated strongly with Jamaluddin, motivating him to establish a school that caters to families with limited financial means.
Even at 91, Jamaluddin remains active and continues to dedicate his days to nurturing young minds. His unyielding passion for education reflects the enduring spirit of the UAE’s development and the emphasis on community values.
A Day at Dubai International Airport
As part of the celebrations marking his legacy, students from Crescent English High School were invited to Dubai International Airport for an educational tour. This unique excursion allowed them to gain insights into the operation of one of the busiest international airports in the world, blending education with real-world experience.
Social media channels of Dubai Airports also joined in celebrating Jamaluddin’s contributions, stating: “He arrived in Dubai by sea in 1965, before there was even a port. As part of the Year of Community, we felt privileged to finally put a stamp in his passport to celebrate a legacy shaped by service, humility, and hope.”
This heartwarming series of events showcases not only a personal milestone for Haji N Jamaluddin but also serves as a reminder of the profound impact educators can have on their communities. His journey encapsulates the transformation of Dubai over the last six decades and the enduring power of education as a means to uplift society.
