90-Year-Old Founder of Dubai School Offers Affordable Education

Haji Jamaluddin, a 90-year-old Indian expatriate, continues to actively oversee the operations of Crescent English High School in Dubai, which he founded in 1984. His mission was simple: to provide affordable education for low- and middle-income families who would otherwise have limited access to quality schooling. Over the years, Crescent has become one of the most affordable schools in Dubai, with annual tuition fees of just Dh3,500—significantly lower than many other schools in the city.

For Jamaluddin, Crescent English High School is far more than just an educational institution; it’s a lifelong mission. He views it as a service to the community, especially for families who struggle with rising educational costs. Reflecting on his motivation, Jamaluddin shared that the school serves as a form of sadaqah jariyah (ongoing charity) for him, a continuous act of giving back. “The UAE has given so much to me and my family; it’s our home away from home. This is my way of repaying that debt,” he said.

Crescent English High School began in a modest villa in the Rashidya area of Dubai, and over time, it has expanded to larger campuses, with its current premises located in Al Ghusais. Today, the school serves over 1,600 students from diverse backgrounds, including children from India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Nepal, Afghanistan, and the Philippines. Jamaluddin takes great pride in the diversity of the student body, calling it “incredible.” However, the school’s popularity has led to a long waiting list of 5,000 families vying for just 150 available seats each year. In fact, prominent figures, including members of India’s Parliament, have personally requested admission for students.

Crescent follows the Indian CBSE curriculum, and its alumni have gone on to hold significant positions in various industries globally. Many of them return to visit Jamaluddin, a gesture that reminds him of the far-reaching impact the school has had. “They often come back to meet me, and those moments are priceless,” he said.

Jamaluddin’s own journey to founding the school is rooted in his early career. Originally from Kollakadavu, Mavelikara, in Kerala, Jamaluddin began his career as an auditor with the Government of Maharashtra before moving to Air India International in Bombay (now Mumbai). In 1965, Jamaluddin moved to Dubai, where he worked for First National City Bank (now Citibank) and then Bank of Oman (now Mashreq Bank). He played an instrumental role in establishing consular services for Indian expats in Dubai and in securing direct flights between Kerala and Dubai. However, after leaving the bank in 1983, Jamaluddin turned down several lucrative offers to fulfill his dream of creating a school for the community.

His children, including four doctors, are fully supportive of his mission. His son, Dr. Riyas Jamaluddin, a dentist, called the school a “miracle” given its ability to operate successfully despite its financial challenges. “It doesn’t make economic sense, but it works,” he said. Jamaluddin’s eldest son, Dr. Saleem Jamaluddin, an internal medicine specialist, sees the school as a legacy that goes beyond just education, describing it as a personal mission for their family.

Throughout the years, the school has faced challenges, especially during the Covid-19 pandemic. However, Jamaluddin’s commitment to his staff and students has remained steadfast. “We didn’t let go of a single staff member,” he said, highlighting his dedication to ensuring stability and continuity for the school community during difficult times.

For Jamaluddin, Crescent English High School is not just an educational institution, but a lifelong legacy that will continue to impact future generations. “Children join us as crescents; they leave us as full moons, ready to light up the world,” he said with a smile. His work and dedication continue to inspire his students, their families, and the entire community, ensuring that his influence will be felt for years to come.