Srinagar, Nov 1: In a landmark step toward deepening Indo-UAE collaboration, Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah met Mr. Faizal E. Kottikollon, Dubai-based entrepreneur, philanthropist, and Chairman of the UAE India Business Council – UAE Chapter (UIBC-UC), and Mr. Kshitij Korde, Head of Corporate Affairs, UIBC-UC. The meeting, held in Srinagar, focused on strengthening ties in education, healthcare, and social development.
The high-level interaction followed two major events in the city — the inauguration of the transformed Middle School Block at Government Girls Higher Secondary School (GGHSS) Kothibagh, now a DREAM School, and the launch of a UIBC-UC research paper titled “Bridging Horizons: UAE-India Partnership and the Future of Education-led Development.”
These initiatives mark a new phase of Indo-UAE collaboration, emphasizing shared goals in educational reform and healthcare improvement. The Chief Minister praised the Faizal & Shabana Foundation (FSF) for its visionary work, calling the DREAM School project “a shining example of what government and philanthropy can achieve together.”
The Kothibagh DREAM School traces its origins to Mr. Kottikollon’s visit to Srinagar in 2023 as part of a UIBC-UC delegation. Since then, the project has become a model of innovation and partnership, symbolizing the growing synergy between India and the UAE in social transformation.
Chief Minister Omar Abdullah underscored the importance of human development, stating, “No amount of infrastructure development, be it roads, power projects, or commercial complexes, can substitute for quality healthcare and education. These are the true pillars of J&K’s progress and prosperity.”
During the meeting, Mr. Kottikollon presented the Chief Minister with copies of the newly launched research paper and a coffee table book, “Opening Gateways – Tourism Opportunities India-UAE,” which celebrates the deepening tourism and cultural bonds between the two nations. The book highlights Jammu and Kashmir as a key tourism destination and emphasizes the potential of human capital development in the region.
Expressing gratitude for the Chief Minister’s support, Mr. Kottikollon said, “It was an honour to call on the Hon’ble Chief Minister and seek his guidance on strengthening the Indo-UAE corridor. Education and healthcare are not just priorities but bridges that connect communities and create lasting impact.”
The discussion also explored future collaborations, including a proposed 40-school transformation program across J&K and potential partnerships to upgrade healthcare institutions under a framework promoting patient safety and holistic wellness.
Mr. Kottikollon further invited the Chief Minister to lead a J&K delegation to the UAE for dialogue on cross-border investments and knowledge exchange. He also extended a special invitation to visit Tulah Wellness Sanctuary, his integrative wellness initiative in Kerala.
The inauguration of the DREAM School at Kothibagh — attended by Lt. Governor Manoj Sinha as the chief guest and members of the UIBC-UC delegation — marks a significant milestone in Indo-UAE cooperation, setting a new benchmark for public-private partnerships in Jammu and Kashmir’s education and social sectors.
