Vaishnav Krishnakumar (inset) died of cardiac arrest in Dubai on October 21, 2025. SUPPLIED

Dubai’s Indian community is mourning the loss of Vaishnav Krishnakumar, an 18-year-old student who died of cardiac arrest during recent Diwali celebrations at Dubai International Academic City. Vaishnav, a first-year BBA Marketing student at Middlesex University Dubai, was rushed to the hospital but declared dead on arrival on Tuesday night (October 21). The Dubai Police Forensic Department confirmed that Vaishnav died of natural causes, echoing the hospital's preliminary report. Surveillance footage released by Dubai Police showed that prior to the tragic incident, Vaishnav danced with a group of students in their accommodation. He later sat down to rest. He then walked to a nearby restaurant and sat at a table where he collapsed minutes later. He was spotted by a security guard, who called paramedics. Described as a “brilliant and compassionate student,” Vaishnav was known for academic excellence that earned him a UAE Golden Visa. He was also Head of School Councils at GEMS Our Own Indian School, where his mother teaches. “Vaishnav was an exemplary student, admired for his kindness and humility,” Middlesex University said in a statement. “His loss has deeply affected our entire community.” GEMS Our Own Indian School also mourned him: “Vaishnav was dearly loved by his teachers and peers. He was a star pupil who guided and supported many classmates. The entire school community is in grief,” the school said. His body will be flown to his home state Kerala for the funeral once repatriation procedures are complete. ICA/Expat Media
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