Indian expat in UAE suffers stomach pain which turned out to be heart attack
September 30, 2025 Dubai
Stomach Pain Turns Out to Be Heart Attack: UAE Expat’s Survival Story
On World Heart Day, the case of a 53-year-old Indian driver in Abu Dhabi shows how stomach pain can signal a heart attack. Quick medical action saved his life, reminding us that even minor symptoms should never be ignored.
Abu Dhabi: For many people, stomach discomfort is often dismissed as indigestion, acidity, or gas. However, on World Heart Day (September 29), doctors in Abu Dhabi highlighted a powerful reminder—sometimes these “trivial” signs can actually be symptoms of a heart attack.
This truth came to light when Ahmed Sathar (name changed on request), a 53-year-old driver from Kerala, experienced severe stomach pain while at work in the UAE. What he believed was nothing more than a gastric issue turned out to be a life-threatening heart attack.
A Misleading Symptom
Sathar walked into the Emergency Department of Burjeel Medical City (BMC) complaining of stomach discomfort. An otherwise healthy man with no history of serious illness, he assumed the pain was due to gas or indigestion. But hidden behind the pain was a dangerous condition—ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI), a major heart attack caused by a blocked coronary artery.
Doctors later explained that heart attacks don’t always present themselves with the “classic” crushing chest pain. In many cases, especially in older adults, the signs can appear as stomach pain, upper abdominal discomfort, or even unexplained sweating. Sathar’s case became a textbook example of this.
Nurses Who Spotted the Warning Signs
At first glance, Sathar did not look like a critical patient. But the experienced nursing team at BMC noticed his heavy sweating and unusual discomfort. Charge Nurse Mary Jernie Alba, along with senior nurses Nitty Nicholas and Sehida Rahjuna Padikkal, quickly sensed something more serious.
Within minutes, they activated the chest pain pathway, a protocol designed to detect cardiac emergencies early. An ECG (electrocardiogram) was performed right away, which revealed that Sathar was having a massive heart attack.
Before he could even process the results, his condition worsened, and he collapsed in the emergency room.
Race Against Time
The medical team immediately called a “Code Blue”—the hospital’s emergency response for cardiac arrest. In a perfectly coordinated effort, doctors and nurses secured his airway, performed resuscitation, and stabilized his condition in less than five minutes.
“He was on the brink of cardiac arrest,” said Dr. Malcolm Borg, Consultant and Group Head of Emergency Medicine at BMC. “The rapid teamwork and immediate ECG saved his life. If there had been any delay, the outcome could have been very different.”
Sathar was quickly transferred to the Cath Lab, where doctors opened his blocked artery. This procedure restored blood flow to his heart and prevented permanent damage.
A Remarkable Recovery
Just two days later, Sathar was able to walk out of the hospital and return to his family—a remarkable turnaround for someone who had nearly lost his life.
“This case highlights why awareness is so important,” said Dr. Borg. “Heart attacks can be deceptive. They don’t always come with sharp chest pain. Sometimes they show up as stomach discomfort, heartburn, or unexplained sweating. The key is to act fast and never ignore these symptoms.”
Why Every Minute Matters
Doctors call the first few minutes of a heart attack the “golden window.” Immediate diagnosis and treatment during this period can mean the difference between life and death. Sathar’s survival was possible because of the quick instincts of the nurses, the rapid ECG, and the availability of a specialized Chest Pain Centre accredited by the American Heart Association at BMC.
Without this swift response, the blocked artery could have caused irreversible damage—or worse, ended his life.
A Message for the Community
Sathar later admitted that he had ignored similar stomach discomfort and excessive sweating on previous occasions, assuming it was related to food or fatigue. But on that day, the pain became stronger and radiated into his chest, pushing him to seek help.
Doctors warn that many patients make the same mistake, waiting too long or self-medicating for what they think is acidity or gas. Unfortunately, in some cases, this delay proves fatal.
“Even small symptoms can hide something serious,” Dr. Borg cautioned. “If you feel unexplained stomach pain, chest tightness, breathlessness, or unusual sweating, don’t ignore it. Visit the ER immediately. Because when it comes to the heart, every minute truly matters.”
Conclusion
On this World Heart Day, Sathar’s story serves as a reminder for everyone—never dismiss persistent or unusual symptoms. What feels like “just gas” could actually be a silent warning from your heart. Thanks to timely medical intervention, this UAE expat was given a second chance at life, but not everyone may be as fortunate. Awareness, quick action, and timely care can save lives.
Asghar Furniture Celebrates 47 Years of Crafting Homes & Hospitality Spaces Across the UAE
For 47 years, Asghar Furniture has been shaping elegant homes and world-class hospitality spaces across the UAE with quality, trust, and timeless craftsmanship.
Do You Have Nomophobia? UAE Doctors Warn Against Excessive Use of Mobile Phones
UAE doctors highlight the rising risk of nomophobia, a growing fear of being without mobile phones, affecting mental health and daily life.
‘Depression Meant Weak Faith’: UAE Residents Challenge Mental Health Stigma
UAE residents share personal experiences to break mental health stigma and redefine faith, strength, and healing.
Why the New Year Doesn’t Mean a “New You” — And What to Do Instead
The New Year isn’t about becoming someone new. It’s about building better habits, consistently and realistically.
Beauty in the Middle East: Russian Brands Enter a Demanding Market
Russian beauty brands are expanding into the Middle East, navigating high standards, cultural preferences, and strong consumer expectations.
UAE: Why More Women Are Choosing to Cycle-Sync Their Workouts
Women across the UAE are embracing cycle-sync workouts to boost fitness results, balance hormones, and improve overall wellbeing naturally.
Why Giving Still Feels Better Than Receiving: The Science, Culture, and Joy Behind Gifting
Discover why giving gifts creates deeper happiness than receiving, backed by science, culture, and emotional psychology.
Quiet Luxury: Why the World’s Wealthiest Are Choosing Privacy Over Visibility
Quiet luxury reflects a growing shift among the ultra-wealthy toward understated elegance, privacy, and timeless sophistication over loud branding and public attention.
Seen More Mosquitoes? UAE Authority Issues Tips to Prevent Disease Risk
With rising mosquito activity across the UAE, authorities have issued essential guidelines to help residents reduce disease risks and stay protected.
Controlling Blood Sugar Can Cut Heart Disease Risk in Half, Study Reveals
A recent study shows that maintaining healthy blood sugar levels significantly reduces the risk of heart disease and related complications.
Dubai's best brunches: 7 beloved spots for foodies this winter
From high-energy party brunches to chic alfresco feasts, these seven Dubai brunch spots are perfect for soaking up sunny winter afternoons in style.
Dubai Fitness Challenge 2025 concludes with surprise fireworks, sunset yoga at Zabeel Park
The ninth edition of the Dubai Fitness Challenge concluded in spectacular style with surprise fireworks and a citywide sunset yoga session at Zabeel Park, as organisers promised an even bigger 10th edition next year.
Centrum by Haleon unveils unique activation, Vitamin See, to raise awareness about wellness
Centrum by Haleon introduces Vitamin See, a multisensory wellness activation at Kite Beach that transforms invisible vitamin levels into an immersive, unforgettable health experience.
Planning a long drive on National Day holidays? Here's the health checklist UAE residents forget
As UAE residents head out for long drives and outdoor getaways during National Day holidays, doctors share a practical health checklist to prevent fatigue, dehydration, and emergencies on the road.
9 ways to spend the 4-day long UAE National Day weekend
Celebrate the UAE’s 54th National Day with fireworks, concerts, family events, cultural attractions, and citywide festivities during the long weekend.
UAE marks World Diabetes Day with push for early detection
The UAE observes World Diabetes Day with nationwide initiatives focused on early screening, smart health systems, and promoting healthier lifestyles across all age groups.
Stranger Things, K-Pop: Things to do over the weekend in UAE, Nov 15-16
From Stranger Things adventures to K-Pop concerts, art nights, fitness challenges, and food festivals—here are the best events happening across the UAE this weekend.
Stretch, breathe, belong: Dubai’s biggest free yoga session is coming to Zabeel park
Thousands will gather beneath the Dubai Frame on November 30 for a massive sunset yoga session marking the finale of the Dubai Fitness Challenge 2025.
Indian salesman in Dubai wins RAK Diabetes Challenge 2025, bags cash prize
More than 5,500 UAE residents took part in the RAK Diabetes Challenge 2025, where Indian expat Karthik Anbazhagan won the male category after dramatically reducing his HbA1c levels.
UAE weather: Drop in temperatures; dusty, partly cloudy skies in some areas
Temperatures across the UAE are expected to drop slightly on Friday, with partly cloudy and dusty conditions in some areas, according to the National Centre of Meteorology.
Reddit joins list of banned social media for under 16s in Australia; should Dubai follow suit?
Australia has moved to restrict social media access for under-16s, adding Reddit to the list of blocked platforms. Dubai parents weigh in — is a similar crackdown needed in the UAE, or are there better ways to protect children online?
How to turn your 12-hour Dubai layover into a mini-vacation
Turn your Dubai layover into a mini-vacation! From world-class dining and duty-free shopping to exploring souks, the Burj Khalifa, and relaxing in airport Zen Gardens—discover how to make every hour count in the City of Gold.
11 new Abu Dhabi restaurants make the cut in the 2026 Michelin Guide
The Michelin Guide Abu Dhabi 2026 features 11 new restaurants, including fresh Bib Gourmand winners and exciting fine dining entries, cementing the capital’s growing global culinary reputation.
Inside UAE desert wildlife: How one artist explores lives of rare gazelles, scorpions and more
Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi student Miles Critchley-Hope captures the UAE’s rare desert wildlife—from gazelles to scorpions—through a stunning photographic art series that celebrates nature’s magic and diversity.
Your ultimate UAE weekend guide: Where to eat, play and chill
Discover the best UAE weekend spots for food, fun, and relaxation — from family brunches to pet-friendly beaches, VR adventures, and cultural festivities.
What's 'interval walking': Know the 3 benefits (backed by science)
A science-backed fitness trend from Japan, interval walking alternates fast and slow paces — boosting heart health, burning calories, and building stamina without stressing your joints.
International White Cane Day: Sharjah Charity logs 14,974 sight-saving surgeries since 2007
Since 2007, Sharjah Charity Association’s Blindness Prevention Project has performed nearly 15,000 free eye surgeries worldwide, giving thousands the gift of sight and independence.
7 best Diwali gifts under Dh1000 that spark joy, UAE 2025
Celebrate Diwali 2025 with elegant, affordable gifts under Dh1,000 — from smart lights to luxury spa baskets. These thoughtful picks blend style, practicality, and festive charm for your loved ones.
What happens when you miss UAE credit card payments — defaults to travel bans, explained
Missing credit card payments in the UAE can lead to more than just late fees — from loan defaults and bounced cheques to possible court cases or travel bans. Here’s a full breakdown of how the law works and what you can do before it escalates.
Daily horoscope for today October 14, 2025: Leo, Sagittarius and other sun signs
Discover what the stars reveal for your zodiac sign today. From Aries’ need for calm to Sagittarius’ wave of optimism, here’s your daily astrological guide to help you navigate October 14, 2025, with clarity and purpose.
7 ways your Diwali snacks are sabotaging you and how to win back balance
Diwali treats are tempting, but overindulging can leave you bloated and sluggish. Here are seven common festive eating mistakes — and practical tips to enjoy sweets and snacks without guilt.
UAE mid-term break: 9 coolest coffee spots in Dubai to sip, relax and repeat
Turn your UAE mid-term break into a caffeine-filled escape! From artisanal coffee houses to seaside cafés, here are nine of Dubai’s most stylish and relaxing coffee spots to recharge, unwind, and indulge.
Why outlandish job titles like 'Chief Hustler' are the new power move
From “Chief Happiness Officer” to “Master of Coin,” unconventional job titles are reshaping workplace identity, creativity, and culture — making corporate life a little more human and a lot more fun.
Meet the Dubai super athlete completing 100 triathlons in 100 days for a cause
Ghani Souleymane’s record-breaking endurance challenge turns every swim, cycle, and run into hope
Explore Abu Dhabi with Bollywood power couple Deepika Padukone and Ranveer Singh
Bollywood icons Deepika Padukone and Ranveer Singh unite as brand ambassadors for Experience Abu Dhabi, showcasing the city’s culture, adventure, and luxury in a new global tourism campaign.
UAE: How to apply for your child’s birth certificate online in Dubai
Parents in Dubai can now issue, copy, or replace a birth certificate entirely online through the Dubai Health Authority (DHA). Here’s a complete guide on the process, required documents, and fees.
UAE, GCC shoppers are asking AI for custom meal plans to save costs
Faced with rising grocery costs, UAE and GCC residents are using AI-powered meal planners, fitness apps, and smart grocery tools to eat better, spend less, and make sustainable food choices.
Watch now: How heart procedures have evolved
In the latest episode of Heart Matters, Dr Mehmood Butt of King’s College Hospital London in Dubai explains how modern tools like CT angiograms, shockwave therapy, and minimally invasive procedures are reshaping the future of cardiology.
Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi trials pioneering digital surgery system
The hospital has partnered with Johnson & Johnson MedTech to trial Polyphonic™, a first-of-its-kind connected surgery ecosystem in the Middle East, aiming to enhance performance, collaboration, and patient safety.
UAE Pink October: Cancer awareness goes nationwide with 86 sites offering free clinical and ultrasound tests
Friends of Cancer Patients (FOCP) kicks off its Pink October campaign with over 86 clinics across the UAE offering free breast cancer screenings, alongside corporate programs, awareness workshops, and community events throughout October.
Registrations open for ninth edition of Dubai Fitness Challenge
The ninth edition of Dubai Fitness Challenge returns from November 1–30, 2025, inviting residents and visitors to embrace the “30x30” movement with flagship events like Dubai Ride, Dubai Run, Stand Up Paddle at Hatta, and the brand-new Dubai Yoga.
Who is responsible for providing health insurance in the UAE?
In the UAE, employers are legally responsible for providing health insurance to employees, while rules for dependents vary across Abu Dhabi, Dubai, and the northern emirates.
Dubai's must-try Fall trend: Warm, 'toasty makeup' magic— your glow, your rules
The Hailey Bieber–approved ‘toasty makeup’ look is Fall’s hottest beauty trend in Dubai. Think caramel tones, bronzed cheeks, and lips kissed with cinnamon warmth—your glow, your rules.
Dubai sunrise routines: 5 workouts to improve focus, memory and energy
Early mornings in Dubai offer the perfect time to recharge both body and mind. These five simple workouts can improve focus, sharpen memory, and keep energy levels high all day.
Prevent heart problems before they start
Rising stress and sedentary lifestyles are increasing heart risks among UAE residents, especially younger adults. Experts stress simple lifestyle changes and regular check-ups can prevent serious cardiovascular diseases.
Emirati doctor pioneers laparoscopic bariatric surgery in UAE
Dr. Mariam Salem Al Khatri, the UAE’s first Emirati specialist in laparoscopic bariatric surgery, has performed over 800 procedures and is reshaping obesity care with a holistic, patient-first approach.
Innovative nerve-cooling technique used in pain-free knee replacement surgery
Emirates Hospitals Group and Prof. Dr Samih Tarabichi unveil a groundbreaking joint surgery facility in Dubai, pioneering pain-free recovery with advanced nerve-cooling technology.
Watch now: Difference between a heart attack and a heart failure
In the latest episode of Heart Matters, Dr Babar Chaudhri explains the difference between heart attack and heart failure, the warning signs to watch for, and how modern treatments are transforming cardiac care.
Abu Dhabi doctors use CAR-T therapy to treat rare autoimmune case
In a first-of-its-kind regional milestone, Abu Dhabi doctors have successfully used CAR-T therapy to treat a patient with life-threatening autoimmune disease, offering new hope for resistant conditions.
Who is responsible for providing health insurance in the UAE?
In the UAE, employers and sponsors must provide health insurance. Rules differ in Abu Dhabi, Dubai, and the northern emirates. Learn who qualifies.
UAE weather's big change: Autumn begins today with the September Equinox
The UAE welcomes autumn today, September 23, as the equinox ushers in cooler days, shifting winds, and a gradual break from the summer heat.
Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi pioneers magnet-based weight-loss procedure
Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi has pioneered a minimally invasive, magnet-based weight-loss technique to help patients struggling with weight regain after bariatric surgery.
Abu Dhabi Biobank, NMC partner to expand cord blood banking in UAE
Abu Dhabi Biobank partners with NMC Healthcare to expand cord blood banking in the UAE, offering parents the choice to store or donate stem cells for future treatments and research.
UAE launches 'Synthetic Memories' AI project for Alzheimer’s patients
The UAE begins clinical trials for ‘Synthetic Memories’, a pioneering AI technology that recreates lifelike memories to support Alzheimer’s and dementia treatment.
Abu Dhabi researchers create AI tool for faster multiple sclerosis diagnosis
A partnership between NYU Abu Dhabi, Yas Clinic, and ADSCC has led to an AI-powered MRI tool that improves the accuracy and speed of multiple sclerosis diagnosis.
Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi leads UAE in life-saving organ transplants
Since 2017, Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi has completed 941 successful transplants with a 95% success rate, pioneering the UAE’s first multi-organ procedures and shaping the future of transplantation in the region.
Indian expat survives one of world’s rarest heart infections in Dubai
Doctors at Aster Hospital, Qusais, successfully saved a 52-year-old Indian expatriate from a life-threatening cardiac tamponade caused by one of the rarest forms of meningococcal infection ever documented.
Gulf News and King's College Hospital London in Dubai launch vodcast series on heart health
Gulf News and King’s College Hospital London in Dubai have launched Heart Matters, a four-part vodcast series designed to raise awareness on cardiovascular health.
How Dubai entrepreneur and Olympic torchbearer left sports behind and returned as women's fitness trailblazer
Former athlete and Olympic torchbearer Ivana Bruic reinvented herself as the founder of Dubai’s Storm Cycling, creating a safe, women-focused fitness movement.
Hope for infants: University of Sharjah joins global study on drug to reduce brain injury
Researchers at the University of Sharjah are part of an international study testing an experimental compound, BRT_002, that has shown potential in reducing brain damage caused by oxygen and blood deprivation in newborns.
Artificial intelligence takes the lead in weather forecasting, cloud seeding
Experts say artificial intelligence is transforming weather prediction and cloud seeding by analyzing massive datasets in real time, improving forecast accuracy, and offering new tools to address climate challenges.
American Hospital Dubai introduces the Da Vinci SP Robotic Surgery System to EEMEA
American Hospital Dubai becomes the first in the Middle East, Africa, and Eastern Europe to adopt the Da Vinci SP robotic surgical system, offering precision, faster recovery, and minimal scarring for patients.
Emirates Health Services launches AI 'Synthetic Memories' therapy for Alzheimer’s patients
Emirates Health Services introduces an AI-powered "Synthetic Memories" therapy in the UAE, offering Alzheimer’s patients innovative memory reconstruction sessions for improved emotional and cognitive wellbeing.
Pink Caravan brings free breast cancer screenings to workplaces this October
This October, the Pink Caravan’s Mini Mobile Clinic will visit UAE workplaces, offering free breast cancer screenings and awareness sessions to promote early detection and community health.
RAK Hospital launches first Y-DNA ancestry test in UAE
RAK Hospital in Ras Al Khaimah has launched the UAE’s first Y-DNA ancestry test, offering residents a unique opportunity to trace paternal lineage, migration paths, and family history through advanced genetic sequencing.
Where to get a medical fitness test in Dubai for a UAE residence visa
Planning to get or renew your UAE residence visa? Here’s a complete guide to medical fitness test centres in Dubai, including timings, costs, and fast-track Smart Salem services.
UAE, GCC shoppers are asking AI for custom meal plans to save costs
As food prices rise, GCC consumers are using AI apps, smart groceries, and wellness tech to save money while eating healthier.
Ordering food online just got easier: New Dubai rules to make apps better, fees clearer
Dubai has introduced new rules for food delivery apps to make pricing transparent, reduce hidden fees, and ensure fair practices for both customers and restaurants.
UAE Donor’s Heart Saves 7-Year-Old Saudi Boy in Life-Saving Transplant
A brain-dead donor in Abu Dhabi gave new life to a 7-year-old Saudi boy through a successful heart transplant in Riyadh.
Hafeet Rail: What You Should Know About the UAE-Oman Train Link
Hafeet Rail is a $2.5 billion UAE-Oman train project that will cut travel time, connect major cities and ports, and boost trade and tourism.
Sheikh Mohammed Takes First Ride on Etihad Rail Passenger Train from Dubai to Fujairah
Sheikh Mohammed rides Etihad Rail from Dubai to Fujairah; UAE rail network to launch in 2026, connecting 11 cities across all emirates.
RTA Completes Major Overhaul of Dubai Metro’s Ventilation and Cooling Systems
RTA completes Phase 2 of Dubai Metro’s ventilation and cooling system upgrade, enhancing comfort across 14 stations with zero service disruption.
UAE Clinches Two Top Honours at AFC Medical Awards 2025
Two UAE doctors win Golden Awards at the 2025 AFC Medical Awards for decades of service and contributions to football medicine in Asia.