Ziyad Kayyali: From Iraqi Refugee to Houston Firefighter and Real Estate Entrepreneur

In a powerful example of perseverance and success, Ziyad Kayyali, once an Iraqi refugee, has become a respected firefighter and real estate entrepreneur in Houston, Texas. His life journey is a compelling reflection of the challenges and triumphs that define many immigrant experiences in America.

Fleeing War and Rebuilding in America

Originally from Iraq, Ziyad Kayyali came to the United States as a refugee, fleeing the violence and instability that plagued his homeland in the aftermath of war. Like thousands of Iraqis who resettled in the U.S. after 2003, Kayyali arrived with few possessions but strong determination.

His early years in the U.S. were marked by the challenges familiar to many new immigrants: language barriers, cultural adjustments, and the struggle to find economic stability. But rather than being discouraged, he pursued education and community engagement with vigor.

A Career in Public Service: Becoming a Firefighter

Ziyad made the bold decision to enter public service, training to become a firefighter in Houston, one of America’s largest and most diverse cities. This career path required not only physical and mental strength, but a deep commitment to the safety and well-being of others.

Today, he serves in the Houston Fire Department, where he is recognized not only for his dedication and bravery but also as a representative of the Arab and Muslim-American communities contributing to public safety in the United States.

Firefighting in Houston means facing everything from blazing summer wildfires to hurricanes and urban emergencies. Ziyad’s presence in the department highlights the growing diversity in U.S. emergency services—a field once overwhelmingly homogenous.

Building a Future in Real Estate

Outside his demanding firefighting career, Ziyad has also found success in real estate. He is part of a growing number of Arab-American professionals in Houston’s booming housing market. Whether helping families find homes or investing in properties, Kayyali uses his personal experiences and network to build community wealth and support immigrant families.

Real estate in Houston is fast-moving and competitive, but Ziyad’s reputation as a trustworthy, hard-working agent has earned him a strong client base—particularly among Middle Eastern and immigrant families looking for someone who understands their unique needs.

A Bridge Between Cultures

Ziyad Kayyali’s story is more than a personal success—it’s a testament to immigrant resilience and the potential of refugee populations when given opportunity and support. As both a public servant and a businessman, he embodies the spirit of giving back to the country that gave him a second chance.

In a time when refugees and immigrants often face political scrutiny, Kayyali’s achievements serve as a powerful reminder of the positive impact these communities make in American society.

Ziyad Kayyali’s journey from war-torn Iraq to a respected firefighter and real estate professional in Houston is nothing short of inspiring. His dual roles—saving lives and helping others build new ones—illustrate what’s possible with hard work, opportunity, and service.

His life stands as a beacon for other immigrants chasing the American Dream, and his legacy continues to grow both in the flames he battles and the homes he helps create.