Dhanwantari Vaidyasala, a revered Ayurvedic institution with a 93-year history in India, has launched its first international wellness centre in Bur Dubai. The new facility, located in the Al Ain Center, marks a significant milestone for the Kerala-based organisation, making its traditional healing and wellness treatments directly available in the UAE for the first time.
A Legacy of Healing Arrives in Dubai
Founded in 1933, Dhanwantari Vaidyasala has long been a destination for patients seeking authentic Ayurvedic care. The decision to open a centre in Dubai was driven by strong demand from the region. “Many patients travel from the UAE to our hospitals in Kerala for treatment,” explained Bindu N (Swathi), the company’s Assistant General Manager. “With Dhanwantari’s direct presence in Dubai, our services will now be far more accessible and convenient for them.” The new centre aims to serve the community of residents who previously had to make special arrangements for care in India.
Ambitious Global Expansion Plans
The Dubai hub is the first step in a major international growth strategy. Dr Satheesh Kumar Namboothiri, the managing director, described the launch as “a new beginning for us and the first step towards our vision of ‘Dhanwantari Global'”. The organisation plans to establish new centres in Bahrain, Qatar, Oman, the Philippines, Germany, and Australia, with a target to have them all operational by 2026. This expansion reflects a commitment to making traditional Indian medicine more widely available worldwide.
Focus on Modern Health Challenges
The Dubai centre will concentrate on addressing prevalent lifestyle-related health issues. “Our authentic methods to prevent and manage diabetes will now be available in the UAE,” said Dr Kumar. He also mentioned the development of a “protocol for healthy living” designed to help prevent chronic diseases without relying on medication.
Dr Sathya K Pillai, the centre’s medical director and chief physician, confirmed a focus on reversing lifestyle diseases. “Our facility is equipped with modern systems for diagnosing neuropathy and providing subsequent treatments,” he stated. Dr Pillai added that specialised procedures, such as ‘Tarpana’ for eye ailments and advanced skin and hair care, will be introduced soon, contributing to the diverse wellness offerings available across the UAE’s medical landscape.
Regional Growth Strategy
To establish a strong presence in the Gulf, Dhanwantari UAE has outlined a multi-pronged strategy. “Our goal is to extend the Dhanwantari legacy across the Gulf,” said Muraleedharan Ekarool, managing director of Dhanwantari UAE. The company plans to open 10 direct outlets across the UAE within the next three years, complemented by franchise and kiosk models. The brand has already integrated into the local market by acquiring the Ayur Sathya clinic. Dr Jaisam Abdulla, the manager and physician, also announced that long-term silver, gold, and diamond treatment packages will soon be available for regular clients.
