Kerala Expat Dies of Cardiac Arrest After Badminton in Dubai
A 52-year-old logistics manager from Kerala died of cardiac arrest after a badminton session in Dubai, the third such sports-related death this year.
A 52-year-old logistics manager from Kerala has tragically passed away following a sudden cardiac arrest after a weekend badminton session in Dubai.
Ranjith Vijayan, a resident of Ras Al Khor for 26 years, collapsed during a morning sports session on October 24, 2026. The incident took place at a school facility in Dubai Land between 8 am and 10 am.
Sudden Collapse After Weekend Match
According to his friend and neighbour, Tito Thomas, a senior credit control manager, Vijayan began complaining of breathing difficulties as the group concluded their two-hour badminton session. As the players were preparing to depart, Vijayan collapsed while walking toward his bag.
Emergency efforts were immediate. A trained colleague and school security staff performed CPR on the victim while waiting for medical professionals. Although an ambulance and a doctor arrived within five minutes, Vijayan was pronounced dead upon arrival at a private hospital.
A Life of Health and Dedication
Vijayan was a well-regarded professional, serving as the General Manager for Logistics and Supply Chain at a local engineering and industrial solutions company. Friends and colleagues noted that he led an active and healthy lifestyle.
- Maintained a healthy diet
- Stayed consistently hydrated
- Underwent regular medical check-ups with clear results
- Had no known history of heart disease
The company has confirmed the preliminary cause of death as cardiac arrest and is currently assisting his family with the repatriation of his remains to Kerala. His HR and administration manager, Santhosh Kumar Parayil, is coordinating the necessary legal and administrative formalities.
Vijayan is survived by his wife, Rashmi, who resides in the UAE, and their son, Rithvik, who is currently pursuing higher education in India.
A Growing Concern for Indian Expats
This tragedy marks the third sports-related sudden death among Indian expatriates in the UAE in 2026. Previous incidents include:
- Safwan Shanu, 38, who died in Al Garhoud on June 14, 2026.
- Anwar Sadiq, 43, who passed away in Ajman in mid-June.
Medical experts have raised concerns regarding such events, pointing to potential contributors within South Asian populations. These include undiagnosed medical conditions, high-stress environments, and genetic factors that may increase the risk of sudden cardiac events during physical exertion.