Doha: With great sorrow, the Family Food Centre has announced the passing of its Founder Hyder Haji.
Hyder Haji, the founder of Family Food Centre and a long-standing resident of Qatar, passed away peacefully in the early hours of July 21, 2025 at the age of 90.
Hyder Haji was a man of exceptional integrity, humility, and determination.
Over his five-decade journey in Qatar, he played a pivotal role not only in the business landscape but also in shaping the country’s expatriate community through his philanthropic and social contributions.
He established Family Food Centre in 1978, now one of Qatar’s most respected retail brands—built on the foundation of Hyder’s values of honesty, service, and quality.
He was also the founder of the Hyson Group in India, further expanding his entrepreneurial vision and contributing to sectors beyond retail.
Beyond business, Hyder Haji dedicated himself to community-building and education. He was a founding member and former President of MES Indian School, one of the first Indian curriculum schools in Qatar.
He also cofounded the Indian Community Benevolent Forum (ICBF), an organisation committed to supporting distressed Indian expatriates.
His influence extended to the creation and support of multiple humanitarian and charitable institutions, including Ansari Orphanage and Al Islam Charitable Trust.
While these initiatives were rooted in Kerala, their inspiration and continued support were closely tied to his decades of service and leadership from Qatar.
Hyder Haji’s life reflected a rare combination of entrepreneurial acumen and deep social consciousness.
He will be remembered not only as a pioneer in organized retail in Qatar, but as a social leader, philanthropist, and community builder whose legacy will endure across generations.
May Allah grant him the highest ranks in Jannah and give strength to all who mourn his loss.
