Introduction
Dr. Vijayan Nambiar Al Hathboor Group stands as a benchmark of leadership, resilience, and strategic excellence in the Gulf’s retail and trading landscape. With over 33 years of professional experience in the UAE, Dr. Vijayan Nambiar currently serves as Head – Retail Business at Al Hathboor International, overseeing FMCG, stationery, arts, and autocare divisions. His journey reflects not just professional success but also an enduring commitment to innovation, people development, and ethical business practices.
Early Life and Educational Background
Born in Neeleshwaram, Kasaragod, Kerala, and raised in Mumbai, Dr. Vijayan Nambiar grew up in a disciplined Keralite household. His father, Ramachandran, worked with E.S. Patanwala, while his mother Lakshmi was a homemaker who instilled determination and perseverance in him.
Although narrowly missing admission to medical college, Dr. Nambiar pursued Pharmaceutical Sciences, followed by a Master’s degree in Management Studies from Mumbai University. His academic foundation later culminated in a Doctorate in Business Administration, reinforcing his strategic leadership capabilities.
Professional Journey in the UAE
Dr. Vijayan Nambiar arrived in the UAE in 1988, a time when the market was recovering from recession. His professional breakthrough came with NMC Trading LLC, where he was entrusted with promoting globally recognized brands such as Nivea.
Key Achievements at NMC Trading
- Built strong distribution networks across the UAE
- Launched multiple FMCG, pharmaceutical, and medical brands
- Played a crucial role during post-Gulf War market restructuring
- Rose from Marketing Manager to Chief Operating Officer
- Contributed to London Stock Exchange listing
- Helped establish 7 profitable business verticals
- Led Project Billion, a transformational growth initiative
His leadership helped NMC Trading achieve industry recognition, including MRM Business Awards and SKEA Appreciation Awards.
Leadership at Al Hathboor Group
In January 2022, Dr. Vijayan Nambiar joined Al Hathboor International, one of the UAE’s most respected business conglomerates. As Head of Retail Business, he oversees:
- FMCG
- Stationery & Arts
- Autocare Retail Divisions
Under his leadership, the retail division continues to scale through multi-channel strategies, operational efficiency, and customer-centric innovation.
About Al Hathboor Group
Founded in 1954 by Mr. Saif Obaid Al Hathboor, Al Hathboor Group has grown into a diversified business powerhouse under the chairmanship of Mr. Abdulla Saif Obaid Al Hathboor.
Business Verticals Include:
- General Trading
- Auto Care
- FMCG & Retail
- Real Estate Development
- Beauty & Lifestyle
- Food & Technology Solutions
The Group is widely recognized for ethical business practices, sustainability initiatives, and community welfare programs, including breast cancer awareness and anti-smoking campaigns.
Personal Philosophy and Community Engagement
Dr. Vijayan Nambiar believes that failure is the first step to success. His leadership philosophy revolves around:
- Focused goal setting
- Effective time management
- Continuous learning
He actively contributes to leadership development as:
- President – Toastmasters Dubai
- Vice President – Regional Toastmasters
Personal Life
Dr. Nambiar is married to Meera, a teacher. Their daughter Neha, a dentist, is also a soon-to-be-published writer.
Addresses
Office Address:
Saif Obaid Al Hathboor Building,
Airport Road, Dubai, UAE
Residence (UAE):
102, NEO Al Mankhool, Dubai
India Address:
Neha Sadan, Cherumakkavu,
Neeleshwaram, Kasaragod, Kerala, India
Legacy and Vision
With decades of experience across FMCG, pharmaceuticals, medical equipment, and retail operations, Dr. Vijayan Nambiar Al Hathboor Group continues to inspire emerging business leaders. His vision is to share knowledge, mentor future managers, and contribute meaningfully to society while driving sustainable business growth.
