Nearly six decades after arriving in Dubai by sea with no port to welcome him, a long-time resident and educator has received a symbolic gesture marking his journey—an official Dubai airport entry stamp.
Haji N Jamaluddin first set foot in the emirate on February 26, 1965, arriving from Mumbai when Dubai was still a growing settlement. This year, his son wished to commemorate that life-defining moment with something his father never received back then—a formal entry stamp into Dubai, symbolizing not only his physical arrival but his deep-rooted contribution to the city’s growth.
Thanks to the support of the Dubai Airports team, the family’s heartfelt idea became a reality.
“This new entry stamp isn’t just a mark in a passport – it’s a tribute to everything Dubai has given us,” Jamaluddin said. “My son wanted to honour the years I’ve spent here and with the help of the Dubai Airports team, he made that possible.”
Now in his 80s, Jamaluddin is best known for founding Crescent English High School in 1984. The school, which currently serves over 1,700 students, stands as one of the most affordable private institutions in the UAE. His guiding belief remains unchanged: “Money is not everything. Education is the best weapon for enlightenment.”
He also credits much of his success and inspiration to the UAE’s visionary leadership. Recalling the early days, he spoke fondly of the late Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum, whom he admired for visiting construction sites before dawn—a tradition he says is continued by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum.
As part of the tribute, students from Crescent English High School were invited to Dubai International Airport (DXB) for a behind-the-scenes educational tour. The experience gave them insight into airport operations and the crucial role DXB plays in connecting people and places around the world.
