Faizal Edavalath Kottikollon, an Indian entrepreneur based in the UAE, is a name that resonates with success, innovation, and philanthropy. Born on July 6, 1963, in Mahé, India, Kottikollon’s journey from a modest background to a business magnate is nothing short of inspirational. His story showcases his resilience, business acumen, and his commitment to making a difference in the world. As the founder and chairman of KEF Holdings, Kottikollon has established technologically integrated enterprises across multiple industries, with a focus on education, healthcare, infrastructure, and philanthropy.
Faizal Edavalath Kottikollon: The Foundation of a Dream
Kottikollon’s early life in Mahé set the foundation for his future success. His father, PK Ahammed, was the Chairman of the Peekay Group of Companies, which offered young Faizal the opportunity to observe the intricacies of the business world. This early exposure ignited his passion for entrepreneurship.
He attended St. Joseph’s Boys’ Higher Secondary School in Kozhikode before pursuing higher education in civil engineering at the prestigious Manipal Institute of Technology. After completing his BE in Civil Engineering in 1987, Kottikollon expanded his knowledge by earning an MBA in Business Administration from T. A. Pai Management Institute in 1990. His thirst for learning didn’t stop there. Kottikollon furthered his studies by obtaining a Master of Science degree in Industrial Engineering from Bradley University in Illinois, USA. These academic achievements laid the groundwork for his entrepreneurial ventures that followed.
Starting from Scratch: The Birth of Emirates Techno Casting
In 1995, with seed capital of just $5,000, Kottikollon took his first step into the business world by launching Al Ahamadi General Trading, a steel scrap trading company in Ajman. Though the beginning was humble, his keen business sense and relentless determination saw him grow the business rapidly. Two years later, in 1997, Kottikollon founded Emirates Techno Casting, a company that specialized in producing casting components. His wife, Shabana, also played a significant role in the business by handling human resources and administration, allowing Faizal to focus on production and technological advancements.
The company’s success was reflected in its growing market share, which led to a major milestone in 2008 when Dubai International Capital (DIC), the investment arm of Dubai Holding, acquired a 45% stake in Emirates Techno Casting for $126 million. This partnership proved pivotal in Kottikollon’s journey, as it laid the groundwork for future expansions and strategic partnerships.
KEF Holdings: Revolutionizing Multiple Industries
The sale of Emirates Techno Casting to Tyco International in 2011 for $400 million marked the beginning of a new chapter in Kottikollon’s entrepreneurial journey. In 2012, Kottikollon founded KEF Holdings, a diversified conglomerate that focuses on several key industries, including infrastructure, healthcare, and education. With KEF, Kottikollon sought to create solutions that would address global challenges in developing nations, particularly in the fields of education, healthcare, and infrastructure.
KEF Holdings became the parent company for a variety of subsidiaries, including KEF Infrastructure and KEF Healthcare, both of which are leaders in their respective fields. Under his leadership, KEF Holdings has implemented groundbreaking initiatives, such as the development of smart factories and offsite construction technologies, aimed at revolutionizing the way infrastructure and healthcare projects are executed.
KEF Infrastructure: Building the Future
In 2014, Kottikollon’s vision to create a smarter and more efficient infrastructure took shape with the establishment of KEF Infrastructure. The company focused on the fabrication and supply of concrete elements such as beams, slabs, and architectural cladding panels. KEF Infra One Industrial Park, located in Krishnagiri, India, serves as the company’s flagship project. This state-of-the-art industrial park, spanning 42 acres, incorporates smart technologies and cyber-physical systems to deliver high-quality infrastructure solutions.
KEF Infrastructure’s successful projects include the construction of Embassy 7B in Bangalore and a major office park for Infosys, demonstrating Kottikollon’s commitment to developing cutting-edge solutions for the construction industry.
KEF Healthcare: Revolutionizing Healthcare Delivery
In 2017, Kottikollon expanded his business empire into the healthcare sector by establishing Meitra Hospital in Kozhikode, Kerala. This 400,000 square foot tertiary care hospital was built using KEF Infra’s offsite construction technology and serves as a prime example of how innovation can be applied to the healthcare industry. Meitra Hospital, designed by renowned physicians from Cleveland Clinic USA, offers world-class healthcare services in the fields of heart and vascular care, bone and joint health, neuroscience, and more.
The hospital’s rapid construction and state-of-the-art infrastructure set a new benchmark for healthcare delivery in India. Today, Meitra Hospital is a leading institution that embodies Kottikollon’s vision to bring advanced healthcare to underserved communities.
Philanthropy: Giving Back to Society
Beyond business, Kottikollon is deeply committed to philanthropy. Along with his wife Shabana, he co-founded the Faizal & Shabana Foundation in 2007. The foundation focuses on education, youth development, healthcare, sustainable development, and community support. Through this charitable initiative, Kottikollon has positively impacted thousands of lives.
One of the foundation’s notable initiatives was the refurbishment of a 120-year-old Government Vocational Higher Secondary School for Girls in Kozhikode, Kerala, which resulted in a remarkable 400% improvement in class X state board exam results. Additionally, the Krishnagiri Village Development Project (KVDP), launched in 2015, aimed to improve the lives of nearly 3,800 households in Tamil Nadu by focusing on education, skill development, and sustainable farming practices.
Honors and Recognition: A Legacy of Excellence
Over the years, Kottikollon’s achievements have been recognized by various prestigious institutions. He has been ranked among the “Top 100 Indian Business Leaders in the Arab World” by Forbes Middle East and recognized by Construction Week as one of the “20 Most Influential Indian Leaders in Gulf Construction.” His contributions to business and philanthropy have earned him numerous accolades, including the International Community Services Award in 2012 and the PV Sami Memorial Award in 2016.
In 2018, Kottikollon was also listed among the “Richest Indians in the UAE” by Arabian Business, a testament to his immense wealth and success.
Net Worth and Future Vision
As of 2025, Faizal Edavalath Kottikollon’s net worth is estimated to be in the billions. His diversified business ventures, strategic acquisitions, and groundbreaking work in infrastructure and healthcare have propelled him to the top echelons of the global business community. Kottikollon continues to drive forward his vision of using technology to address the pressing challenges faced by underserved communities around the world.
Conclusion: An Entrepreneur and Philanthropist with a Vision
Faizal Edavalath Kottikollon’s story is a remarkable testament to the power of perseverance, innovation, and the drive to make a difference. From humble beginnings in Mahé to becoming a global business leader and philanthropist, Kottikollon has consistently demonstrated that success is not just about financial gains, but about creating a positive impact on society. His legacy will continue to inspire future generations of entrepreneurs and philanthropists, proving that with the right vision and determination, anything is possible. Do connect on Linkedin.
