In an inspiring story of lasting camaraderie, a group of friends from Abu Dhabi have been financially aiding a stranded and penniless expatriate for the past eight years. Vaisakh Surendran's journey since arriving in Abu Dhabi about 15 years ago has been tumultuous. Starting as a helper, he ventured into entrepreneurship, but his fortunes plummeted when he was defrauded by a relative, leaving him bankrupt, incarcerated, and embroiled in multiple legal battles.
Despite these challenges, the generosity of his friends Arshad Abdul Azeez, Ahmed Farris, and an anonymous third individual has ensured Surendran has a place to live and food to eat. With all six court cases now resolved, thanks to his friends' contributions, Surendran faces an overstay fine since 2019 and outstanding debts of Dh40,000, an amount beyond his friends' means, preventing him from returning to Kerala, where his nine-year-old son and family eagerly await his return.
Surendran recounts his journey, starting as a helper earning Dh1,300 in 2009, moving to a Dubai-based company as a salesman in 2013, and becoming a father in 2015. Despite initial success with a trading company in Mussafah, he faced significant losses after his partner withdrew. Adding to his woes, a relative's deceit led to a year in jail.
Since April 2017, Surendran has been unable to renew his company license due to ongoing legal issues. He credits his friends for their unwavering support during this challenging period. Arshad Abdul Azeez, a longtime friend and healthcare professional, provided shelter and support during Surendran's toughest times. Other friends contributed to his rent, food, and other urgent needs.
While a Dh23,000 contribution settled the final court case, new financial burdens emerged, including an overstay fine and unpaid company phone bills totaling over Dh40,000. Surendran's wife works part-time to support their family in Kerala, where their son faces teasing for his father's absence.
Surendran remains hopeful of returning home, sustained by his friends' support and the dream of reuniting with his family.
