Zulekha Daud: Early Life and Humble Beginnings
Born into a modest family of a construction worker in Nagpur, Maharashtra, Dr. Zulekha Daud’s journey to becoming a healthcare magnate is nothing short of inspirational. Her early life was marked by determination and a passion for medicine, which led her to pursue a Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery degree from the Government Medical College in Nagpur. Specializing in gynecology, she laid the foundation for a career that would eventually transform healthcare in two nations.
Breaking Barriers in the UAE
In 1964, Dr. Daud moved to the UAE, becoming the first female Indian doctor to practice there. This was a significant milestone, especially at a time when the region’s medical facilities were rudimentary. Dr. Daud began her medical practice at the American Kuwait Mission Hospital, facing challenges like a lack of basic amenities and modern equipment. Despite these hurdles, she made a lasting impact, earning the affectionate title ‘Mama Zulekha’ for her dedication to maternal health, having attended over 10,000 deliveries.
Founding Zulekha Healthcare Group
Driven by her vision to improve healthcare access, Dr. Daud established the first Zulekha Hospital in Sharjah in 1992. Starting as a 30-bed facility, it quickly grew into one of the UAE’s largest private healthcare networks. Today, Zulekha Healthcare Group operates two hospitals, three medical centers, and a chain of pharmacies, treating approximately 550,000 patients annually. This remarkable growth underscores her relentless pursuit of healthcare excellence.
Expansion to India
In 2016, Dr. Daud expanded her healthcare vision to India by founding Alexis Multispeciality Hospital in Nagpur, her hometown. This 200-bed facility serves as a beacon of advanced medical care for the Central India community. Her contributions extend beyond healthcare; she established the Zed vocational and training center and initiated several charitable efforts, including the ‘Clean Drinking Water’ project.
Community Initiatives and Global Recognition
Dr. Daud’s commitment to community welfare is evident in her numerous initiatives aimed at early detection and prevention of life-threatening diseases like cancer and cardiovascular conditions. Thousands have benefited from free health checks at her hospitals. Her humanitarian work has earned her prestigious accolades, including the Pravasi Bhartiya Samman Award in 2019, recognizing her philanthropic contributions and enhancing India’s prestige abroad.
Accolades and Achievements
Dr. Daud’s remarkable journey has been recognized with numerous awards:
- Lifetime Achievement – Healthcare Award
- Dubai Quality Award presented by Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum
- Forbes Middle East Top 100 Indian Leaders in the UAE
- Economic Times’ Most Powerful Indian in the Gulf
- Lifetime Achievement Award at the Republic TV Gulf Indian Leadership Summit
Her financial acumen and dedication to improving healthcare have also placed her among the wealthiest Indians in the GCC, with an estimated net worth that reflects her success and impact.
A Legacy of Compassion and Excellence
Dr. Zulekha Daud’s story is one of resilience, vision, and unwavering dedication to improving lives through healthcare. From her humble beginnings in Nagpur to becoming a celebrated healthcare leader in the UAE and India, her legacy is a testament to what can be achieved with determination and a heart for service. As she continues to inspire through her work, Dr. Daud’s journey serves as a powerful reminder of the impact one individual can make in transforming the lives of countless others.
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