Hyderabad, July 31, 2026 — A 56-year-old Hyderabadi man returned home from Saudi Arabia after months of hardship, thanks to Lulu Group founder M.A. Yusuff Ali. The man had suffered a stroke and faced a travel ban over unpaid car dues.
How he got stuck in Jeddah
Mohammed Abdul Aleem worked in Saudi Arabia as a driver. He returned to the Kingdom on a new visa after a short visit to India. Soon, he faced trouble over unpaid dues on an old car loan. A financial case led to a court-imposed travel ban. He could not leave the country.
While he was stuck, Aleem suffered a stroke. The stroke left one side of his body paralysed. Doctors treated him at King Abdul Aziz Hospital in Jeddah. After his condition stabilised, he moved to a shelter home called “Waqf Darakum”. He had no one to look after him.
Lulu Group steps in
The story of Aleem’s plight reached the Malayali social worker community in Jeddah. When it reached M.A. Yusuff Ali, the Lulu Group chairman decided to help.
- Yusuff Ali paid off the entire outstanding amount to the vehicle finance company.
- Lulu Group representatives then sped up the official process to lift the travel ban.
- On Yusuff Ali’s instructions, Lulu Saudi Director Mohammed Haris visited the shelter. He met Aleem and his helper and handed over flight tickets for both.
With help from the Jeddah Indian Consulate’s social welfare wing, including officer Shameer Nadvi, officials completed Aleem’s emergency certificate and final exit formalities. Lulu regional director Abdussalam and representative Abdul Majeed also assisted.
Back in Hyderabad
After months of hardship, Aleem flew back to Hyderabad on Wednesday. He travelled in a wheelchair. Shameer Nadvi from the consulate team accompanied him.
The case has drawn attention to the vulnerabilities faced by migrant workers in the Gulf. Medical emergencies often coincide with financial or legal disputes. Community networks and business leaders can facilitate repatriation when official channels move slowly.
