NAVIGATE YOUR SUCCESS THROUGH PASSION AND PERSISTENCE DR. RAZA SIDDIQUI
Could you tell us about your journey in the UAE?
After a really successful stint at Apollo Hospitals Delhi, I moved to UAE in the year 1998 with a mission to promote India as a medical tourism destination and to set up the first Apollo Hospital outside India. The task was well accomplished as for the very first time someone took the responsibility of setting up the international patient navigation centers for the treatment of tertiary and quaternary care while successfully mobilizing hundreds of patients from the region to India.
Then, in the year 2004, I met His Highness Sheikh Saud Bin Saqr Al Qasimi, Member of the Supreme Council of the UAE and Ruler of Ras Al Khaimah, who shared his vision of promoting Ras Al Khaimah as a Tourism, Industrial and Investment destination to the world. Entrusting me with the task of setting up a scalable international quality healthcare facility which will ultimately be helpful and meaningful in promoting and positioning the emirate as a medical tourism destination, I was assigned to launch RAK Hospital, a premier healthcare facility.
As we complete 15 years of hospital’s establishment, I can proudly state that I, along with my team, have delivered the promise by giving UAE a facility that is premium in both healthcare and hospitality and truly encapsulates High Highness’s futuristic vision.
The institution is one the most trusted healthcare provider not only for the local population but for the international patients as well. Over the years, we have efficaciously launched and implemented
several innovative procedures and gained the reputation of a very reliable partner. Our unique design, patient-centric approach and pioneering concepts set us apart from everyone else.
Why do you think Indians are doing well in UAE'S medical sector?
India is perhaps the oldest partner and collaborator catering to the healthcare needs of UAE nationals, and has been complementing the healthcare infrastructure in terms of providing quality medical and allied talent for decades. Indian doctors are well trusted not only in the UAE but across the globe as their experience, education and training provides them certain distinguishing qualities. The long partnership and legacy between the two countries has led to the development of trust and confidence not only in Indian doctors but in its robust healthcare system as well.
Further, for mainline treatments and alternative therapies, there is a long history and relation with some of the prominent healing centers of Kerala. This constant exchange of ideas, knowledge and talent has resulted in Indian medical talent to become an integral part of the UAE health system. Also, from the same talent pool, we have witnessed the rise of several enterprising Indian businessmen who diversified in the healthcare arena and have created a niche for themselves. The UAE’S healthcare industry is dominated by Indian providers, doctors, nurses and associated staff whereas our talent also contributes 25-30% to the healthcare systems of USA and UK.
How do you think UAE and India's medical sectors compare to each other?
We are not in the business of comparison but cooperation and collaboration. UAE is India’s top trading partner and the two countries also share excellent diplomatic relations. With regards to the medical sector, Indians dominate UAE’S healthcare sector and I believe we have to keep finding areas of synergy where the two countries could continue to work together meaningfully.
India is a destination for advanced tertiary and quaternary care; on the other hand, UAE is a growing healthcare system moving towards self- sufficiency. This provides great opportunities for the countries to cooperate in the areas of advance tertiary and quaternary care. The procedures which are not being performed here because of economies of scale and don’t make business sense, UAE could continue to send them to India for cost-efficient quality management as India is and will remain an eminent healthcare provider for this region at one of the most competitive prices. To top it all, the countries’ cultural and physical proximity make this a perfect partnership. We at RAK Hospital have also been working with India’s top providers in many areas. India is considered to be the pharmacy of the world as it has top pharmaceutical companies who market formulations even in the US. In this regard, I see a huge possibility of collaboration for the pharmaceutical industry which could help local healthcare systems in controlling the costs.
What do you believe is the secret of your success?
My 3Ps of success are Passion, Perseverance and Positivity. I truly believe, “You either turn your passion into your profession or be passionate about what you do” only then can success be yours, and for me that has been my biggest secret. Till date, I haven’t had a single moment of disbelief as I have enjoyed working every second and have always given my 100% to what I do. People often ask me what gives me so much enthusiasm and energy to always remain on top of everything and I always have one answer – If you love what you do, that’s meditation for you and your biggest source of inspiration. So be passionate, stay persistent and remain positive and success will just be a byproduct.
What advice would you give to Indians who wish to be successful in the UAE?
The rules of the game called success remain the same everywhere. Positive attitude, persistence and passion pave the way for victory. Since UAE is a land of opportunities, with over 190 nationalities living and working together in harmony, we must learn to appreciate and understand the cultural nuances, be compassionate and tolerant of this multicultural society.
Conversely, India is a domestic market therefore competition with international business associates is less in India. However, here you deal with top of the line international business players in almost every arena thus it’s important to familiarize yourself with international best practices and benchmarks more to find a niche. Know your job, be honest, passionate and work hard then success is all yours.
How do you foresee the future of Indians in UAE'S health sector?
We all have a great future here because UAE is going to become the next medical tourism destination. Opportunities are tremendous. Moreover, Indian healthcare providers and administrators come with lot of strong training and practice which gives them an edge over others. We also share similar cultural values, are committed and are passionate about the industry. A glorious past and a superb present – there is no doubt the future will be splendid too. The sector is dominated by Indians who are doing exceedingly well and in the coming future, the only way is up.