Dr. Thumbay Moideen Awarded New Year Award 2026 by Manipal
Academy of Higher Education for Global Contributions to Education,
Healthcare, and Research
Manipal – January 2026: Dr. Thumbay Moideen, Founder and President of Thumbay
Group, Dubai, has been awarded the New Year Award 2026, jointly instituted by the Academy
of General Education (AGE), Manipal, in collaboration with Manipal Academy of Higher
Education (MAHE), MEMG India Pvt. Ltd., Manipal Media Network Ltd., and the Dr.
TMA Pai Foundation.

The award recognises distinguished individuals who have made exceptional contributions to
society and community development initiatives. Instituted to honour outstanding personalities
connected to the coastal districts of Udupi and Dakshina Kannada, the New Year Award
celebrates leadership that creates lasting social, educational, and healthcare impact.

Dr. Thumbay Moideen has been chosen for his visionary role in building one of the region’s
most integrated ecosystems spanning healthcare, medical education, research, diagnostics,
and community service. From founding Gulf Medical University to establishing a global
network of academic hospitals and healthcare institutions under Thumbay Group,founded in
1997, his work has consistently focused on accessible healthcare, quality education, and
international collaboration.

Widely regarded as one of the most prominent Non-Resident Indians in the Gulf, Dr.
Thumbay Moideen has also emerged as a highly respected global voice from the Beary
community, and a globally respected, leading Muslim entrepreneur and educationist on the
international stage. His journey from coastal Karnataka to building institutions across the Middle
East and beyond stands as a powerful example of diaspora leadership rooted in service, values,
and social responsibility.

Accepting the honour, Dr. Thumbay Moideen said:
“This recognition from institutions that have shaped generations of professionals is deeply
meaningful to me. Manipal has always stood for knowledge with purpose. I see this award not as
a personal milestone, but as a reflection of what committed teams and value-driven institutions
can build together for society.”

Over the past decades, Dr. Thumbay Moideen has led the expansion of Thumbay Group into a
multi-sector organisation with a strong emphasis on academic medicine, research-driven
healthcare, and global education. His initiatives have created platforms for thousands of
healthcare professionals and students from over one hundred and eleven (111) nationalities,
while strengthening healthcare delivery and academic collaboration across regions.

The New Year Award 2026 adds to a growing list of national and international recognitions
acknowledging Dr. Thumbay Moideen’s contribution to institution building, healthcare
advancement, and community-oriented leadership.