Mohammad Akram/New Delhi

The remarkable story of Mohammad Ibrahim, a resident of Ramna locality in Motihari, is inspiring not just the youth of Bihar, but young people across India.

His journey from Motihari to Dubai is a powerful testament to perseverance and purpose.

Hailing from a modest neighborhood in East Champaran, Ibrahim's rise to success has recently been recognized with the Best Travel and Immigration Services Award by the University of Oxford—a significant milestone in his professional journey.

Ibrahim is far more than a successful entrepreneur. He is also a committed social worker, educationist, and mentor who has helped hundreds of young individuals secure employment across various sectors.

“I’ve personally funded the education of several students up to graduation who couldn’t afford it. I must give back to society,” Ibrahim told Awaz-The Voice.

His contributions to both business and society were acknowledged during Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s first official visit to Abu Dhabi, where Ibrahim had the honour of welcoming him at the Presidential Palace.

In addition, he was recognized by Dubai’s Federation of Economic Development Association for his outstanding achievements in the field of travel and immigration services.

Ibrahim's educational journey began at Al-Hira Public School, followed by religious and social studies at Jamia Imam Ibn Taymiyyah.

He completed his matriculation from Gopal Shah High School in Motihari. He then moved to Kolkata for higher studies, earning a degree in hotel management from the Subhash Bose Institute of Hotel Management, and later completed an MBA from Sikkim Manipal University.

In 2009, he received the President’s Award from Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam through the Bharat Scouts.

He began his professional career as a captain at The Leela Palace in Bengaluru and later secured a position as a supervisor at Dubai’s iconic seven-star hotel, the Burj Al Arab. This role marked the beginning of a flourishing international career.

Driven by a desire to uplift others, Ibrahim played a pivotal role in helping hundreds of youths from India, Nepal, and Bangladesh secure employment as waiters, plumbers, electricians, cleaners, and in supervisory roles across the Gulf region.

He credits a member of the Abu Dhabi royal family for giving him the initial opportunity to start his own company. Teaming up with a group of general managers, his business grew rapidly within two years. After the untimely passing of his mentor Sheikh in London, Ibrahim went on to establish his enterprise.

Today, his business group consists of three companies: Prime Arabia Global Services, Prime Arabia C.T Services, and Aban Properties Management LLC. These firms specialize in facility management and also provide training in hotel management, ITI trades, and other technical skills—offering jobs to hundreds of young people, many of whom now work in five-star hotels and diverse industries.

Despite living in Dubai, Ibrahim remains deeply connected to his roots. For the past 15 years, he has supported underprivileged students through the Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam Science Club, providing essential academic resources. He also established a free library in Ramna, Motihari, giving students a quiet space to study.

He currently runs free coaching classes in Chakia, East Champaran, and plans to expand these centers throughout the district. Recently, he provided financial assistance to Abhay Kumar, a local student who cleared the IIT entrance exam, and honored him for his achievement.

Ibrahim's message to youths is, “If you want success in life, start valuing time. Stick to a routine, and let hard work be your principle.”

Ibrahim emphasizes that Dubai offers immense opportunities for Indians— nearly 80% of the workforce there is Indian. With no income tax, even modest earnings can lead to substantial savings. He believes that dedicated and skilled Indians can achieve great success abroad.

He also firmly believes that Bihar is rich in talent but lacks proper guidance. He envisions a future where technical education and skill development are prioritized in Champaran, enabling local youth to thrive on global platforms.

Mohammad Ibrahim’s story is an extraordinary example of how a young man from a small town can achieve global success—while empowering countless others along the way.

ALSO READ: Khursheed Ahmad's mission of making Patna cultural and literary hub

His unwavering commitment to education and social service proves that even while living abroad, one can deeply impact their homeland, society, and country. A lifelong learner, Ibrahim continues to evolve, always striving to build a better world.