All posts by Abdullah Zafar
Al Jalila Foundation Signs Five Strategic Partnerships To Advance Healthcare Through Philanthropy
Under the patronage and in the presence of His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman of Dubai Health Board of Directors, Al Jalila Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Dubai Health, reinforced its commitment to collaborative philanthropy by signing strategic partnerships with five UAE-based charitable organizations during its annual donor recognition ceremony.
The partnerships aim to unify efforts in delivering healthcare services to those in need, while supporting medical education and scientific research.
This effort demonstrates the Foundation’s commitment to fostering collaboration, facilitating knowledge exchange, and supporting joint initiatives that deliver essential medical support to communities in need.
Strategic partnerships for greater impact
The MoUs were signed by Dr. Amer Al Zarooni, Chief Executive Officer of Al Jalila Foundation, and representatives of the partner charities:
– Dr. Raja Easa Al Gurg, Chairperson of Easa Saleh Al Gurg Charity Foundation
– H.E. Abdullah Ali Bin Zayed Al-Falasi, CEO and Managing Director of Dar Al Ber Society
– H.E. Ahmed Ibrahim Al Suwaidi, Executive Director of Dubai Charity Association
– H.E. Dr. Ahmed Tahlek, General Director of the Tarahum Charity Foundation
– Abdeen Taher Al Awadhi, Director General of Beit Al Khair Society
Dr. Amer Al Zarooni, Chief Executive Officer, Al Jalila Foundation affirmed the partnerships’ role in unifying the charitable sector, stating: “By joining forces with these mission-driven UAE organizations, we ensure life-saving medical care reaches the most vulnerable. These collaborations not only strengthen our healthcare ecosystem but further solidifies Dubai’s position as a global beacon of philanthropic leadership.”
H.E. Abdullah Ali Bin Zayed Al-Falasi stated, “The collaboration with Al Jalila Foundation is a vital step in supporting advanced medical care. This partnership reflects the UAE’s ongoing social responsible approach, which prioritizes philanthropy and healthcare to enhance quality of life and uphold the values of compassion and social solidarity.”
Building on this sentiment, H.E. Ahmed Ibrahim Al Suwaidi added: “We are pleased to collaborate and partner with Al Jalila Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Dubai Health. This partnership aligns with the core pillars of the Dubai Charity Strategy, which is committed to expanding partnerships and enhancing humanitarian work. We are confident that this memorandum, which reflects our shared commitment to noble human values and our sincere desire to serve the community, will result in inspiring success stories and leave a lasting positive impact on various segments of society, opening doors of hope in line with the UAE’s vision to enhance quality of life.’’
Echoing this commitment to community wellbeing, H.E Dr. Ahmed Tahlek noted, “We are pleased with this agreement, which is part of our ongoing efforts to develop community support tools. This collaboration opens new horizons for launching humanitarian projects focused on health, and it contributes to the implementation of initiatives and programs that address the needs of deserving families, especially those suffering from life-threatening illnesses.”
Reinforcing the collective vision, Abdeen Taher Al Awadhi emphasized, “This partnership reflects our shared commitment to making a tangible impact in the healthcare sector by joining forces with Al Jalila Foundation to build a more sustainable, health-conscious society. It supports patients and meets their treatment needs, embodying the UAE’s direction in making human health a top priority and reflecting the deep-rooted values of compassion and solidarity within our community.”
The strategic partnerships will jointly fund vital programs like A’awen, The Child Fund, and community initiatives like Wellness of Wheels, Ta’alouf, and Majlis Al Amal, pooling resources to transform lives.
In testament to Dubaihealthcare sector’s excellence, 13-month-old infantreceives liver transplant
In a landmark medical breakthrough for the emirate of Dubaiand in a testament to the synergy between the public and private healthcare sectors, a medical team at King’s College Hospital London in Dubai has successfully performed the city’s first liver transplant on a 13-month-old child, with the support of Al Jalila Foundation – the philanthropic arm of Dubai Health.
The successful transplant marks another remarkable milestone in Dubai’s relentless quest for healthcare excellence, aligning with the objectives of the Dubai Social Agenda 33, which aims to develop a more efficient, high-quality healthcare system in line with the highest global standards.
The complex and delicate surgery was led by Professor Mohamed Rela, one of the world’s foremost liver transplant surgeons, and was carried out by a multidisciplinary team at King’s College Hospital London in Dubai. Al Jalila Children’s Specialty Hospital played a vital role in preparing for the transplant by providing specialised medical care to both the infant and his father, who donated a portion of his liver. The hospital also performed cardiac surgery to repair a hole in the child’s heart – a key step that paved the way for the successful liver transplant.
The child, named Malek, was born with a rare condition known as biliary atresia, which caused his health to deteriorate despite an earlier surgical procedure to connect his liver to his intestines. He was also diagnosed with a congenital heart defect (atrial septal defect). He was referred to King’s College Hospital in Dubai by Al Jalila Children’s Specialty Hospital, following the cardiac repair procedure, as part of its ongoing commitment to supporting critical humanitarian cases and providing advanced treatment options for children within the UAE.
The collaborative medical intervention by Al Jalila Children’s and King’s College Hospital London in Dubai and the successful transplantgave the child a renewed chance at life. The surgery was completed successfully, and the patient was discharged in good health.
Dr Younis Kazim, Acting CEO of the Health Regulation Sector at the Dubai Health Authority (DHA),said: “The successful liver transplant for a 13-month-old infant represents an unprecedented medical achievement for Dubai. It reflects the healthcare system’s readiness and ability to handle the most complex cases with efficiency and professionalism in a dynamic environment that fosters excellence and supports high-value healthcare investments.”
Spirit of partnership
Dr Kazim highlighted the Authority’s commitment to empowering and developing private healthcare facilities as key partners in delivering specialised services. He noted that the DHA enables this through advanced regulatory frameworks, flexible policies, and continued support to attract top global talent, further reinforcing Dubai’s position as a leading regional and global healthcare hub.
He added that DHA’s efforts to establish comprehensive, internationally-aligned standards for organ transplant procedures in the UAE are rooted in global best practices. These efforts reflect Dubai’s model of excellence in service quality, transparency, and governance of medical procedures, ensuring patient safety, enhancing transplant outcomes, and strengthening trust in the city’s healthcare system.
Dr Kazim concluded by stating that the medical milestone and the integrated care provided to the young patient underscore Dubai’s steady and confident progress towards its strategic goal of becoming the world’s best city in terms of quality of life, wellbeing, and healthcare.
Dr Amer Al Zarooni, CEO of Al Jalila Foundation, affirmed that the achievement marks a significant leap forward for Dubai’s healthcare sector and reflects the emirate’s unwavering commitment to delivering world-class medical services in line with the highest global standards.
Dr Al Zarooni expressed his appreciation to all partners involved in the success of the exceptional procedure, describing it as a model of collaboration between the public and private sectors and charitable organisations. He also praised the vital role of donors and their invaluable contributions to supporting organ transplant programmes backed by Al Jalila Foundation, highlighting their profound impact on the lives of patients with critical medical conditions.
He noted that Al Jalila Foundation covered the full medical costs for the infant Malek, including comprehensive pre- and post-operative care provided at Al Jalila Children’s Specialty Hospital. This support reflects the Foundation’s ongoing pledge to provide holistic healthcare services to those in need, in line with its guiding principle: ‘The patient comes first.’
Strategic collaboration
It is worth noting that Al Jalila Foundation signed a cooperation agreement with King’s College Hospital London in Dubai during Arab Health 2025. The agreement aims to expand charitable healthcare initiatives in the UAE by supporting organ transplant programmes.
Meanwhile, Dr Hanan Ali Obaid, Director of Health Policies and Standards at the Dubai Health Authority, stated that the success of Dubai’s first paediatric liver transplant underscores DHA’s commitment to providing a comprehensive regulatory environment that meets the highest international standards of patient care and safety.
Dr Obaidemphasised the Authority’s focus on adopting advanced and flexible regulatory frameworks that empower healthcare institutions to achieve such complex and precise medical milestones locally. She explained that Dubai’s organ transplant standards have been developed in alignment with global best practices, conforming to all medical, ethical, and humanitarian considerations to ensure the efficacy and safety of the procedure aligned with the Authority’s vision, values, and principles, which place the individual at the heart of healthcare services. This achievement is part of an integrated system that bolsters patient confidence and reinforces Dubai’s status as a global hub for specialised healthcare.
Professor Mohamed Rela – who previously performed a liver transplant on a five-day-old infant, a case recorded in the Guinness World Records as the youngest liver transplant globally – explained that Malek’s condition was particularly complex due to his young age, low weight, and multiple health complications. He emphasised that the successful outcome highlights the competence of the multidisciplinary medical team and the robustness of the specialisedprogramme, which brings together elite consultants, surgeons, hepatologists, anaesthetists, and intensive care experts to deliver holistic, integrated care designed to save lives.
Rapid advancements
He added that the breakthrough also reflects the rapid advancements in the capabilities of Dubai’s healthcare sector and embodies the hospital’s commitment to realising the emirate’s vision of delivering the highest standards of comprehensive healthcare to all members of society, including children.
Dr. Rajeev Tomar, Consultant Paediatrician and Director of the Paediatric Liver Transplant Programme at King’s College Hospital London in Dubai, stated that initial examinations for the infant, Malek, showed severe jaundice, liver and spleen enlargement, and severe malnutrition, indicating that a liver transplant was the only option to save his life. He explained that the case was one of the most challenging handled by the medical team, especially given the presence of a heart defect, which was successfully treated at Al Jalila Hospital before performing the liver transplant.
Kimberly Pierce, CEO of King’s College Hospital Dubai, said: “The success of the surgery represents a qualitative shift in the healthcare landscape of the emirate, as the hospital was able to meet an urgent medical need that previously required travel abroad. Now, it is available locally, thanks to the supportive guidance and the integrated healthcare system that Dubai embraces.”
Dr. Tashfeen Siddiq Ali, Chief Medical Officer at King’s College Hospital London in Dubai, stated that this achievement marks a turning point in Dubai’s journey to becoming a global hub for specialised healthcare.
He added: “It also reflects the rapid evolution of the healthcare sector’s capabilities and embodies the hospital’s commitment to Dubai’s vision of providing the highest standards of comprehensive healthcare for all members of the community, including children.”
Al Jalila Foundation Honors Partners for Advancing Healthcare Excellence
Under the patronage and in the presence of His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman of Dubai Health Board of Directors, Al Jalila Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Dubai Health, hosted a special ceremony to honor its partners for their outstanding contributions to supporting the healthcare sector in Dubai and the UAE.
Held at Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences, the ceremony was attended by Her Excellency Dr. Raja Easa Al Gurg, Chairman of Al Jalila Foundation, Dr. Amer Sharif, CEO of Dubai Health, Dr. Amer Al Zarooni, CEO of the Al Jalila Foundation and over 70 philanthropic donors who have played a vital role in advancing charitable initiatives in the healthcare sector.
His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum expressed profound appreciation for the donors’ generosity, emphasizing that their support exemplifies the UAE’s enduring commitment to humanitarian values and philanthropic excellence.
His Highness said: “We extend our deepest gratitude to our dedicated supporters whose contributions have significantly advanced Al Jalila Foundation’s initiatives and healthcare programs.
“This remarkable display of generosity aligns perfectly with the values of the UAE Year of the Community and illustrates the spirit of solidarity and cohesion that has always defined our society. Through these collaborative efforts, we continue to build a healthcare ecosystem that prioritizes compassion, innovation and accessibility for all.”
The attendees expressed their deepest gratitude and appreciation to His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum for his generous support of Al Jalila Foundation, since its inception in 2013, which has helped in shaping the Foundation into a leading force in advancing healthcare and transforming lives across the UAE.
Strategic Partnership
Her Excellency Dr. Raja Easa Al Gurg affirmed that Al Jalila Foundation’s success in delivering on its mission is a testament to the humanitarian commitment of the UAE’s philanthropic leaders.
She said: “Guided by the vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, Al Jalila Foundation has become a model for sustainable giving.
“Over the past decade, the foundation has achieved significant milestones, and today we continue our journey with a forward-looking vision to shape the future of healthcare through philanthropy.”
Dr. Amer Al Zarooni praised the impactful role of donors in realizing the Foundation’s vision, emphasizing that “every dirham donated has brought new hope to its recipients.”
He added: “2024 was a remarkable year for healthcare philanthropy. Al Jalila Foundation raised AED 177.65 million – an increase of 30% compared to the previous year. These funds enabled us to provide essential medical support to 4,728 patients across the UAE, a 15% rise from 2023.
“The Foundation remains committed to achieving lasting health impact by advancing medical research, expanding charitable programs and supporting medical education.”
Programs and Initiatives
Al Jalila Foundation has developed a comprehensive range of programs and initiatives that integrate healthcare, scientific research and community support, including:
– A’awen: covering life-saving heart treatments
– The Child Fund: offering care for children with critical health challenges
– Wellness on Wheels: delivering onsite screening and diagnostics
– Ta’alouf: empowering children of determination and their families
– Majlis Al Amal: providing emotional support for female cancer patients
– Scholarship Program: training future national medical professionals
– Seed Grant Program: advancing early-stage scientific research
– Waqf (Endowment): funding long-term medical initiatives
Advancing Research
In line with its commitment to medical research, Al Jalila Foundation awarded 13 medical scholarships and funded 12 research projects in 2024, with a total investment of AED 1.83 million in biomedical research.
Additionally, the Foundation supported 12 collaborative research projects between UAE institutions and the US National Institutes of Health (NIH), investing AED 1.07 million in areas such as allergy and infectious diseases – reinforcing its dedication to healthcare innovation and excellence.
The ceremony concluded with inspiring stories from beneficiaries of the Foundation’s research initiatives and programs, including Ta’alouf, A’awen, The Child Fund and Hope Fund.
Dubai Health Performs 11 Life-Changing Heart Surgeries as Part of the ‘Nabadat’ Campaign
In line with its ‘Patient First’ commitment, and as part of the “Nabadat” campaign, a humanitarian initiative aimed at providing comprehensive medical care to individuals suffering from congenital heart defects and chronic heart conditions; Dubai Health, in partnership with the Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Humanitarian and Charity Establishment, has successfully performed 11 complex cardiac surgeries for patients across diverse age groups. The campaign is driven by Al Jalila Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Dubai Health, as part of efforts to strengthen community solidarity by supporting patients who lack access to healthcare. The services included critical heart surgeries and catheterization procedures at Dubai Health hospitals.
Dr. Amer Al Zarooni, Chief Executive Officer of Al Jalila Foundation, stated: “We take pride in our partnership with the Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Humanitarian and Charity Establishment through the ‘Nabadat’ campaign and their support for our cardiac surgery initiatives. This partnership underscores the importance of joint efforts with various entities to expand the scope of charitable and humanitarian work.”
Dr. Al Zarooni added: “The ‘Nabadat’ initiative continues its mission to provide treatment to those facing financial barriers to healthcare. This reflects the commitment of Al Jalila Foundation and the Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Humanitarian and Charity Establishment to delivering high-quality healthcare for all, in line with Dubai Health’s ‘Patient First’ commitment.”
Saleh Zaher Al Mazrouei, Director General of the Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Humanitarian and Charity Establishment, commented: “Inspired by the vision of our wise leadership, we dedicate resources and efforts to ensure eligible patients receive comprehensive medical care. ‘Nabadat’ is a pivotal initiative that embodies the enduring values of compassion in our nation, saving the lives of children and adults with congenital heart defects and offering them a chance for a better future. Originally launched to support children with heart conditions, the initiative has since expanded to include adults and senior citizens who lack the means to afford treatment, providing them with access to specialized medical care.”
Al Mazrouei added: “We are proud to fund this humanitarian initiative, which embodies the true spirit of medicine, saving lives irrespective of financial barriers. By providing surgical procedures and comprehensive care, ‘Nabadat’ upholds the principles of solidarity and compassion.”
Dr. Obaid Mohammed Al Jassim, Consultant and Head of Cardiothoracic Surgery at Dubai Hospital and Medical Director of the ‘Nabadat’ initiative, emphasized: “Dubai Health is committed to supporting such initiatives by leveraging our medical expertise, believing that healthcare is a universal right and that timely interventions can transform lives. We mobilized all resources and medical teams to ensure the success of this campaign, performing 11 life-saving surgeries, with all patients fully recovering.”
Dr. Al Jassim noted that coordination among UAE charitable organizations has enhanced efforts to treat heart patients across various age groups. Children under 15 receive care at Al Jalila Children’s Hospital, while adults are treated at Dubai Hospital, reflecting a shared mission to improve lives.
Professor Zuhair Al Helis, Consultant Cardiovascular Surgeon and Leader of the ‘Nabadat’ Medical Teamsaid that the cases included defects in major heart arteries, valve disorders, and weakened heart muscles. Despite the complexity and lengthy duration of some procedures, all surgeries were completed successfully without complications, enabling patients to resume normal lives.
Among the cases was a 34-year-old woman with a severe fungal prosthetic valve and inflammation around the aortic root. She underwent a successful natural valve replacement despite the complexity. Another case involved a young man whose heart valve was damaged in an accident; the team repaired it while addressing his rib fractures with support from Rashid Hospital specialists. A third patient, a 23-year-old man, underwent a successful repair for a congenital tricuspid valve defect.
Al Jalila Foundation Treats Abdullah’s Cranial Birth Defect with a Comprehensive Treatment Plan
Abdullah’s treatment is just one of the many success stories of the Al Jalila Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Dubai Health. By providing the treatment needed for a congenital cranial condition, the organisation has successfully helped young Abdullah to lead a more fulfilling childhood. This would simply not have been possible without “The Child Fund”, which provides financial aid for treatment and medical caretothose who cannot afford it.
A Journey of Hope
The birth of their first child, Abdullah, an Egyptian national born in 2023, was a moment of great joy for his parents. However, this happiness soon gave way to grave concern, when they learned that he had been born with a cranial birth defect.
Abdullah’s mother had been dreaming of her son’s future as one of boundless possibilities but, with this diagnosis, she found that she had to temper these expectations. Instead, she was now concentrating solely on ensuring that her son could live with as few constraints in life as possible. This unforeseen challenge has undeniably turned her world upside down, but she stood strong alongside her husband and they remained hopeful that their child could enjoy the same quality of life that all children deserve.
According to Abdullah’s father, nothing seemed out of the ordinary at birth. However, when Abdullah had his first vaccine at Al Aweer Health Centre in Dubai, a paediatrician noticed an irregularity in the formation of his head and it was advised that treatment should commence before Abdullah turned six months old. This devastating news was enough for the family to contend with, but it was made all the more difficult when it was realised that the treatment required would not be covered by the family’s health insurance.
Seeking reassurance, Abdullah’s father consulted another doctor, hoping for a different diagnosis, but the second opinion supported the findings of the paediatrician at Al Aweer Health Centre—Abdullah had a congenital cranial deformity that required urgent medical attention. As such, the doctor suggestedthat Abdullah’s treatment should continue at a major hospital. It was at this point where Abdullahwas referred to Al Jalila Foundation, the philanthropicarm of Dubai Health, known for its advanced medical capabilities through Al Jalila Children’s Speciality Hospital.
The Turning Point
After a thorough case review, the Al Jalila Foundation confirmed the approval for Abdullah’s treatment, with full financial coverage. This support was provided through Al Jalila Children’s Speciality Hospital under “The Child Fund”.For the beleaguered family whose hopes rested solely on the foundation’s financial aid to help their son, the news came as some relief and allowed them to begin to see a way forward.
At Al Jalila Children’s Speciality Hospital, Abdullah underwent a comprehensive medical assessment, including cranial imaging to precisely determine the extent of the condition. Based on the findings, the doctors recommended a treatment plan involving a medically designed helmet to gradually reshape his head and restore it to its natural shape. The six-month treatment plan called for frequent check-ups to guarantee the intended outcome.
The treatment plan was initiated with hopeful anticipation from Abdullah’s parents, who prayed for their only child’s full recovery. Their prayers were answered, as the medical team successfully fitted the helmet, explaining that the reshaping process would take approximately six months.
Abdullah underwent regular medical check-ups throughout this period to track his development and ensure there were no unforeseen issues. The results continued to be positive with every examination and, six months later, the medical staff were able to announce his full recovery, allowing Abdullah the opportunity to enjoy the same happy childhood as his friends and peers, without limitations.
A New Beginning
The announcement of Abdullah’s full recovery was a moment of unbridled joy and relief for his parents and they expressed their profound gratitude for the exceptional care provided by Al Jalila Children’s Speciality Hospital. The hospital was instrumental in their son’s recovery, being there at every step of his journey to recovery—from initial diagnosis and necessary medical imaging to fitting the helmet and providing six months of continuous medical follow-ups.
Today, Abdullah embarks on a new chapter of life, free from restrictions, with a future as bright as his parents had always dreamed.
A second chance: Al Jalila Foundation’s lifeline for Ferazia, a toddler battling leukaemia
When three-year-old Ferazia was diagnosed with leukaemia, the outlook was bleak. Her family, already haunted by losing a relative to the same disease, faced not only emotional devastation but also the crushing weight of unaffordable medical costs. That’s when Al Jalila Foundation stepped in, changing the course of this young life through its A’awen program.
A family’s worst fear realised
The first signs were deceptively simple – a persistent fever that wouldn’t break and blood test results that prompted concern. For Ferazia Farhan Latif’s parents, the diagnosis of leukaemia in their Indian-born toddler immediately triggered deep concern.
Having already lost a 23-year-old family member to the disease, they understood all too well the gravity of what lay ahead. Despite their fears, they summoned the courage to fight for their daughter’s future.
Overwhelmed by the prohibitive costs of cancer treatment, the family found themselves at a crossroads until they discovered Al Jalila Foundation. Their urgent plea for assistance received prompt attention, and soon Ferazia was receiving comprehensive care at Al Jalila Children’s Hospital.
Every medical expense was covered through the foundation’s A’awen program, transforming despair into possibility.
Beyond charity: A vision for children’s health
“The Child Fund we launched in November 2023 represents our commitment to ensuring no child goes without essential healthcare due to financial constraints,” explains Haajar Al Ali, Director of Programmes at Al Jalila Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Dubai Health.
The foundation employs rigorous assessment protocols, evaluating both financial need and medical necessity when determining support. “Our approach is deliberately inclusive – helping families regardless of nationality or background, and completely transparent with our partners,” Al Ali says.
She adds: “Each success story like Ferazia’s fuels our purpose. When we witness a child who faced such adversity return to normal childhood activities, it validates everything we stand for. These moments of triumph remind our entire team at Al Jalila Children’s Special Hospital that what we do truly matters.”
The remarkable resilience of a child
Throughout her treatment journey, Ferazia displayed extraordinary spirit. Rather than being diminished by her illness, she approached hospital visits with enthusiasm, forming bonds with medical staff that transcended typical patient-provider relationships.
For her, these weren’t merely clinical appointments but opportunities to visit friends who happened to be doctors and nurses.
As treatment progressed, Ferazia’s recovery became evident not just in medical assessments but in her everyday life. Soon she was back to riding her scooter, playing with abandon and thriving academically – hallmarks of childhood that had temporarily been put on hold.
Today, her family are profoundly grateful to the team who cared for Ferazia, and also to the Al Jalila Foundation. Her father said: “From the moment Ferazia was admitted, we felt immense care and support. They gave us hope and comfort even before treatment began, dedicating themselves tirelessly to our daughter’s well-being. We extend our deepest thanks and appreciation to the entire team.”
Al Jalila Foundation Provides Screening and Diagnostic Services Through its Mobile Clinics
Al Jalila Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Dubai Health, has launched the second phase of its Wellness on Wheels mobile clinic initiative at Al Barsha Park, continuing its mission to provide accessible healthcare services.
Operating daily until March 30, from 4:00 PM to 5:00 PM, these clinics offer free healthcare services, including primary medical consultations, diabetes screenings, vital signs monitoring, and essential medical referrals. This phase follows a successful rollout at Al Khawaneej Park during the first two weeks of Ramadan, and is delivered in partnership with the Islamic Affairs & Charitable Activities Department and the Dubai Sports Council.
Bringing Healthcare to Communities
Dr Dhoha Alawadhi, Director of Community Engagement Programs at Al Jalila Foundation, said: “Our mobile clinics are designed to reach diverse community groups throughout the year, from laborers and senior citizens to orphans and people of determination. We’re bringing healthcare directly to where people live and gather, eliminating barriers to access.”
The clinics provide various preventive and diagnostic services, including vital signs monitoring (temperature, blood pressure, pulse rate, blood oxygen), body mass index (BMI) calculation, chronic disease screenings, and specialized guidance for managing health conditions during Ramadan. Patients requiring additional care are referred to the nearest healthcare facility. For those unable to afford treatment, financial assistance is available through the Foundation’s A’awen program, which covers medical expenses for those in need.
Community Impact and Volunteer Support
The initiative has garnered positive feedback from the community. Mohammed Farhan Iftikhar, a recent visitor, praised the supportive medical team and efficient service. He said: “The entire check-up process was smooth and hassle-free.”
Another beneficiary, Wafa Ouda, highlighted the convenience of the mobile clinics. She said: “This is a quick and accessible alternative to hospital screenings, bringing essential services to our neighborhood.”
Volunteers play a significant role at the mobile clinics, with healthcare professionals from Dubai Health and students from Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences contributing their time and expertise to expand the reach of the program.
This initiative aligns with Dubai Health’s Patient First approach and supports the UAE Year of Community, reinforcing a spirit of giving and social solidarity.
Al Jalila Foundation launches Ramadan campaign to transform children’s lives through The Child Fund
Al Jalila Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Dubai Health, has unveiled its Ramadan campaign dedicated to supporting The Child Fund , which provides life-changing medical care for children in need while alleviating financial pressure on their families.
Established in November 2023, The Child Fund provides essential healthcare services at Al Jalila Children’s Hospital. Staffed by a specialized medical team and advanced technology, the fund aims to provide high-quality, comprehensive care to 3,000 children annually.
In the month of Ramadan, and in alignment with the Year of Community, Al Jalila Foundation has partnered with Emirates General Petroleum Corporation (Emarat) to install smart donation boxes across service stations, enabling customers to contribute to The Child Fund throughout the year.
Dr Amer Al Zarooni, CEO of Al Jalila Foundation, expressed profound appreciation to partners and donors. He said: “The collective effort to support children reflects the extraordinary solidarity within our community. Together, we are creating meaningful change for these young lives, offering them the promise of a healthier future. Every child deserves access to exceptional medical care regardless of financial circumstances. This commitment to putting patients first drives our mission to help children facing health challenges realize their full potential.”
Donation channels
The foundation offers multiple convenient donation methods, official website www.aljalilafoundation.ae, “Help a Patient” program via crowdfunding www.giving.aljalilafoundation.ae, and SMS donations by sending “hope” to 4202, 4206, 4209, or 4409 via Etisalat by e& and du.
Adam’s journey: a triumph of medical care and compassion – thanks to Al Jalila Foundation
Adam’s parents welcomed their firstborn into the world with immense joy, surrounded by flowers and smiles. It was a moment that had been a long time coming – the realisation of a dream after a pregnancy filled with careful planning and hopeful anticipation.
However, their happiness was short-lived. Doctors discovered Adam was suffering from severe heart and kidney complications that had gone undetected during pregnancy. The situation required urgent medical intervention – leaving his Syrian parents facing a daunting medical and financial challenge far beyond their means.
Amidst their distress, a close friend advised Adam’s father to seek help from Al Jalila Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Dubai Healthcare. Without hesitation, he approached the foundation, submitting an urgent request for his son’s treatment.
After a thorough review of Adam’s case, his application was accepted under Al Jalila Foundation’s Children’s Fund, which pledged to cover his medical expenses at Al Jalila Children’s Hospital.
Thanks to an accurate diagnosis by the hospital’s medical team, Adam underwent a series of complex surgical interventions, including two heart catheterization procedures, three ureter dilation surgeries, a cochlear implant and additional surgeries to address complications in his ears, nose and abdomen.
Reflecting on this emotional journey, Adam’s father says: “It was not an easy road. We moved between countless medical tests and multiple surgeries, requiring us to be patient and hopeful. But with each step of progress, our optimism grew, and our belief in our son’s future became stronger.
“The medical team developed a comprehensive treatment plan using the latest technologies and advanced medical equipment. They also provided us with continuous emotional support, which played a crucial role in easing our stress and strengthening our morale throughout the journey.”
Now, after months of medical care and rehabilitation, Adam has made remarkable progress.
Speaking with immense gratitude, his father says: “Thanks to the cochlear implant, he can now hear clearly, and the heart catheterization has greatly improved his breathing and sleep patterns. Today, he smiles, laughs and plays just like any other child. This incredible medical achievement would not have been possible without the support of Al Jalila Children’s Hospital.”
The Children’s Fundis dedicated to providing critical healthcare support for children, ensuring they receive the care they need throughout their medical journey. The fund empowers the community to contribute and foster a culture of giving, guaranteeing that every child has access to essential treatment.
This initiative is part of Al Jalila Foundation’s broader mission to support education, research and medical treatments, assisting over 8,600 patients annually, 30 percent of whom are children battling life-threatening illnesses such as cancer, cardiovascular diseases and other chronic conditions.
Through its relentless efforts, the foundation remains committed to transforming lives and ensuring that every child gets the second chance they deserve.