Keralite entrepreneur dedicates 50 heart surgeries to conflict-hit, needy children

In a heartfelt tribute to Yusuffali M.A.’s five decades of impactful presence in the UAE, healthcare leader and visionary entrepreneur Dr. Shamsheer Vayalil has announced a philanthropic initiative to undertake 50 life-saving heart surgeries for children, particularly those from conflict zones and underprivileged backgrounds. This unique initiative pays homage to Yusuffali’s extraordinary life and commemorates his indelible contributions to humanitarian causes.
Yusuffali, a revered business tycoon and the Chairman of Lulu Group International, stands as an exemplary figure whose philanthropic endeavours have touched the lives of millions. Inspired by a deep sense of compassion and respect for Yusuffali’s unwavering dedication to humanity, Dr. Shamsheer is leading the way in championing this initiative. Married to Dr. Shabeena Yusuffali, the eldest daughter of Yusuffali and the Vice Chairperson of VPS Healthcare, Dr. Shamsheer is a trailblazer in the healthcare industry, serving as the Founder and Chairman of Burjeel Holdings, one of the largest healthcare services providers in the MENA region.
The 50 heart surgeries are aimed at children with congenital heart diseases and will be carried out in specialised hospitals under the umbrella of Burjeel Holdings, spanning the UAE and Oman, and his hospitals in India. Typically, the surgery required to address congenital heart disease comes with a high cost, making it financially challenging for many parents. This issue underscores the critical importance of the initiative. Yusuffali, among the wealthiest non-resident Indians globally, arrived at Dubai’s Rashid Port on December 31, 1973, marking the genesis of a remarkable journey.
From this humble beginning, he forged a business empire while assuming roles as a community leader, philanthropist, and a beacon of hope for those in need. Explaining the rationale behind the initiative, Dr. Shamsheer expressed, “The humanitarian movement is integral to our family ethos. In honouring Mr. Yusuffali, we seek to mark a unique celebration by dedicating ourselves to supporting children.
Through these 50 life-saving surgeries, we aspire to generate opportunities that inspire children to dream beyond limitations and overcome challenges.” Dr. Shamsheer added that as these surgeries unfold, they symbolise medical interventions and a collective commitment to building a future where every child has the chance to thrive and contribute to society.