In a remarkable journey that began on December 31, 1973, Yusuff Ali M.A., the Chairman and Managing Director of Lulu Group International, has completed an astounding 50 years in the United Arab Emirates. Expressing his gratitude, he thanked President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and proclaimed himself an “extremely proud” resident of Abu Dhabi.
Originating from the Nattika village in Kerala’s Thrissur district, the 68-year-old visionary leader started his expedition in the UAE with aspirations of becoming a successful entrepreneur. Boarding the ship named ‘Dumra’ from Mumbai, Yusuff Ali M.A. embarked on a journey that would eventually lead him to the helm of Lulu Group International, managing one of the largest chains of hypermarkets and shopping malls globally. His noteworthy achievements have earned him a total net worth of $7.1 billion, according to Forbes.
Reflecting on his early days, Yusuff Ali M.A. commenced his career in Abu Dhabi by working at his uncle’s small distribution business. Today, he stands as a testament to resilience and ambition, steering Lulu Group International to unprecedented success.
To mark the significant milestone of completing 50 years in the UAE, Yusuff Ali M.A. shared a poignant moment on Instagram by posting a photograph of his old passport. He fondly recalled the date, stating, “I happily remember that it was on the 31st of December 1973, that I first landed in the UAE. Today, on the 31st of December 2023, I am completing 50 years in the UAE.”
Expressing his gratitude, he credited the President of the UAE, Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, for leading the nation and providing immense support throughout his journey. Yusuff Ali M.A. expressed extreme pride in being a resident of Abu Dhabi for half a century.
In his heartfelt message, he extended prayers to Almighty Allah for granting Magfirah to the late HH Sheikh Zayed, the Father of the Nation, and visionary leader who laid the strong foundation of modern UAE. He also expressed gratitude to HH Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan for the opportunity to showcase his passport, representing his first entry into the UAE.
Beyond his business endeavors, Yusuff Ali M.A. serves as the Second Vice-Chairman at the Abu Dhabi Chamber of Commerce and Industry, further solidifying his commitment to the economic development of the region.
Lulu Group International, under Yusuff Ali M.A.’s leadership, has expanded its footprint globally, with approximately 260 hypermarkets and shopping malls spanning 24 countries. These include prominent locations in India, Egypt, Thailand, Vietnam, Malaysia, Philippines, China, the UK, and the US.
Recalling his inaugural visit to the UAE in 1973, Yusuff Ali M.A. reminisced about the challenges, highlighting the single-track road from Dubai’s Rashid Port to Abu Dhabi that took nearly four hours to traverse. From working at his uncle’s distribution business to establishing a small trading center in the mid-1970s, Yusuff Ali M.A.’s journey exemplifies resilience, dedication, and the entrepreneurial spirit that has defined his half-century legacy in the UAE.