All posts by Abdullah Zafar

AWQAF Dubai, Al Jalila Foundation to develop AED38 million endowment facility at Hamdan Bin Rashid Cancer Hospital

The Endowments and Minors’ Trust Foundation in Dubai (AWQAF Dubai) has announced a collaboration with Al Jalila Foundation, the philanthropic arm of the Dubai Health, in keeping with the spirit of charity and giving exemplified by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, through the launch of various humanitarian initiatives during Ramadan.

The partnership aims to deliver a sustainable endowment building dedicated to supporting the treatment of patients at the Hamdan Bin Rashid Cancer Hospital, with the total cost projected to exceed AED38.5 million.

The collaboration was formalised through an agreement signed between the two parties. Under the terms of the contract, AWQAF Dubai will construct a seven-storey endowment building in the Dubai South area on a plot of land owned by Al Jalila Foundation that is valued at AED8.5 million, with the latter covering the construction costs, amounting to AED30 million, over a period of 16 months.

According to the agreement, both the building and the land it occupies will serve as a perpetual endowment under the supervision of AWQAF Dubai. The revenues generated from the project will entirely go towards supporting the treatment of patients at the Hamdan Bin Rashid Cancer Hospital.

Ali Al Mutawa, Secretary-General of AWQAF Dubai, emphasised that the collaboration with Al Jalila Foundation to develop an investment property endowment aimed at supporting humanitarian cases at Hamdan Bin Rashid Cancer Hospital reflects AWQAF’s commitment to advancing healthcare in society. It also underscores efforts to support the treatment of cancer patients and alleviate the financial burden on their families.

Al Mutawa stated that AWQAF Dubai will immediately begin implementing the agreement, overseeing all construction operations and ensuring the project’s eventual completion within the agreed timeframe. AWQAF Dubai will also manage and promote investment in the property according to the highest standards to maximise benefits for underprivileged patients.

He added, “Through our endowment projects, we aim to contribute to building a healthy and sustainable society by focusing on developmental endowments. This reaffirms our ongoing commitment to actively serving the community and supporting national projects that enhance quality of life.”

Dr. Raja Eisa Al Gurg, Member of the Board of Directors of DH and Chairperson of Al Jalila Foundation, said, “We extend our gratitude to AWQAF Dubai for their cooperation in establishing this sustainable endowment project. We believe in the importance of partnerships between institutions to create a lasting impact on patients’ lives, in line with the vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum in embedding charitable and humanitarian work as a core principle of society.

This endowment will provide long-term support to the Hamdan Bin Rashid Cancer Hospital, enabling the provision of specialised treatment for cancer patients. As the first comprehensive and integrated cancer hospital in Dubai, it plays a vital role in advancing cancer care.”

She added, “Our collaboration with AWQAF Dubai highlights Al Jalila Foundation’s dedication to its humanitarian mission of supporting the healthcare sector. This sustainable endowment represents a significant step toward strengthening national efforts to support cancer patients.”

A resilient heart: Abdulrahman’s triumph with the support of the Al Jalila Foundation over congenital heart condition

Born with Hypoplastic Right Heart Syndrome (HRHS), a rare congenital heart condition affecting blood flow to the lungs, Abdulrahman began life with an extraordinary challenge.

His parents were unaware of his condition’s severity until his twentieth day of life, when his mother noticed his lips and nails turning blue with each breath – a pivotal moment that marked the beginning of an arduous medical journey.

Following initial examinations at Dubai Hospital – part of Dubai Healthcare – Abdulrahman, who was born in 2019 to a Pakistani family, was referred to Khalifa Hospital in Abu Dhabi.
There, before reaching three months of age, he underwent his first surgery, the initial step in a series of procedures designed to correct his blood flow and improve heart function.

The path was fraught with anxiety for his family. Each medical decision carried immense weight, yet they found solace in the expertise of specialists who provided the guidance needed to navigate these difficult choices.

After his first surgery, Abdulrahman continued with medical follow-ups at Dubai Hospital. It was then that his family discovered Al Jalila Children’s Hospital and the Aoun Treatment Support Programme – an initiative by Al Jalila Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Dubai Healthcare.

This programme offers financial assistance to UAE-based patients struggling to afford life-saving treatments. Their initial meeting with the medical team heralded a turning point in Abdulrahman’s treatment journey, as preparations commenced for his Fontan procedure, the third and final stage of surgical intervention for his condition.

“The medical team at Al Jalila Children’s Hospital reassured us and put our minds at ease,” his father recalls.

“Even though we had already been through previous heart surgeries, the fear remained just as intense. I was hesitant about the second surgery, but the doctors explained how crucial it was for Abdulrahman’s health and future development. From that moment, we decided to proceed with complete trust in the medical team’s plan.

“Abdulrahman was always cheerful and had great confidence in his doctors. On the day of his surgery, he even joked with one of the doctors, saying he wanted to walk to the operating room instead of being taken on a stretcher. This small gesture reflected the sense of security and comfort that the medical staff had provided him.”

Following surgery, Abdulrahman required specialised care for three months. His post-operative regimen was precise, including a high-calorie milk diet to help restore his strength. Gradually, he began to recover and regain his vitality.

Today, Abdulrahman displays more energy than his three older siblings. He delights in riding his bicycle and playing without showing any signs of fatigue. He has developed into a confident, resilient child who never feels different from his peers.

After this challenging experience, Abdulrahman’s father offers advice to parents facing similar circumstances:

“Trust the doctors and the local hospitals. We are fortunate to have Al Jalila Children’s Hospital in Dubai, where a highly skilled medical team, using the latest technologies, is dedicated to caring for our children. Instead of travelling abroad, we now have access to world-class expertise and medical care right here in the UAE.”

Through its various programmes and community initiatives, Al Jalila Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Dubai Healthcare, supports the treatment of over 8,600 patients annually, 30 percent of whom are children suffering from life-threatening diseases such as cancer, cardiovascular diseases and other chronic conditions.

This reflects the foundation’s unwavering commitment to transforming lives and making a tangible impact on those in need.

The Children’s Fund, one of the foundation’s key initiatives, plays a vital role in supporting medical treatments, research and education, further strengthening its legacy of charitable achievements.

Emirates Petroleum Company and Al Jalila Foundation partner to support patient care programs to transform lives

Al Jalila Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Dubai Health, and Emirates Petroleum Company P.J.S.C – Emarat have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to enhance patient care through community-driven fundraising.

The agreement, signed by Dr. Amer Al Zarooni, Chief Executive Officer of Al Jalila Foundation, and H.E. Ali Khalifa Al Shamsi, Chief Executive Officer of Emarat, reflects both organizations’ shared commitment to philanthropy and advancing healthcare in the UAE.

Under the MOU, Emirates Petroleum will highlight Al Jalila Foundation’s initiatives across select service stations throughout the year, including the Ramadan Campaign. Smart donation boxes from Al Jalila Foundation will be prominently featured, offering customers a seamless way to contribute and support life-transforming medical programs.

H.E. Ali Khalifa Al Shamsi, Chief Executive Officer of Emarat, said: “We are proud to partner with Al Jalila Foundation to support charitable initiatives across prime locations within our network, reflecting our deep commitment to corporate social responsibility and community well-being. At Emarat, we believe that businesses have a vital role to play in uplifting society, and this partnership allows us to channel our resources toward meaningful causes that truly impact lives. In the Year of Community, we will combine our efforts to drive positive change, support those in need, and foster a culture of giving across the UAE.”

Dr. Amer Al Zarooni, Chief Executive Officer of Al Jalila Foundation, said: “In this Year of Community, our partnership with Emarat significantly expands our ability to connect with people across the UAE. Through Emarat’s extensive network, we are making it easier for members of the community to contribute to life-changing medical programs in line with our goal to be the community’s trusted healthcare charity of choice. This collaboration exemplifies how, together, we can create meaningful impact and ensure that quality healthcare reaches those who need it most.”

About Emarat:

Emirates Petroleum Company (Emarat) is one of the UAE’s leading energy providers, established in 1980 to meet the nation’s growing energy demands. Emarat operates an extensive network of service stations across the UAE, offering high-quality fuel, convenience retail, and automotive services, alongside a comprehensive range of commercial fuel, natural gas, and lubricant products.

Emarat is committed to corporate social responsibility, sustainability, and community well-being, aligning with the UAE’s vision for a sustainable future.

Easa Saleh Al Gurg Charity Foundation and AW Rostamani Group Pledge Combined AED 10 Million to Dubai Health’s Innovation Center

Al Jalila Foundation, which leads the giving mission of Dubai Health, has announced a combined donation of AED 10 million towards establishing the Center for Innovation and Technology. The contributions will support Dubai Health in its vision to advance health for humanity by fostering innovation, technology, and collaboration.

The Center for Innovation and Technology is dedicated to transforming research, ideas, and technologies into real-world healthcare solutions that improve patient care and outcomes. Inspired by leading global healthcare innovation centers, this space will integrate clinical expertise, design practice and technology, fostering collaboration amongst students, clinicians, researchers, engineers, designers, startups, and industry leaders to accelerate medical advancements. The center will focus on developing, testing, and scaling healthcare solutions in four key areas with dedicated labs in AI and Data, Robotics and Sensors, Digital Medicine, and Design4Health—a human-centered approach to reimagining patient care. The initiative will ensure that Dubai Health remains at the forefront of innovation in health sciences with the support of strategic partnerships across the private sector and leading academic and health organizations in the UAE, United States, Europe, and Asia Pacific.

Dr. Raja Easa Saleh Al Gurg, Chairperson and Managing Director of Easa Saleh Al Gurg Charity Foundation and a member of the Dubai Health Board of Directors, stated: “Dubai Health is committed to advancing healthcare, ensuring that patient care is continuously enhanced through research and technology. Our contribution to the Center for Innovation and Technology reflects our belief in Dubai Health’s vision to lead in medical excellence and transform healthcare in the region and beyond.”

Dr Amina Al Rostamani, Board Member at AW Rostamani Group, and member of Al Jalila Foundation Board of Directors, said: “At Al Jalila Foundation, we believe in the transformative power of giving, recognising it as an essential catalyst for driving innovation in healthcare. This strategic investment is a direct commitment to accelerating the pace of discovery, ensuring that cutting-edge healthcare solutions reach our communities swiftly. Moreover, it forges a new era of patient-centered care, one that enhances well-being and improves lives for those under our care.”

Dr. Amer Al Zarooni, CEO of Al Jalila Foundation, added: “We are grateful to Dr. Raja Al Gurg and Dr. Amina Al Rostamani for this donation, which exemplifies how giving enhances patient care. With the generous support of our partners, Easa Saleh Al Gurg Charity Foundation and AWRostamani Holdings, the Dubai Health Center for Innovation and Technology can enable smarter, more efficient, and patient-centered solutions, ultimately upholding our Patient First promise.”

Al Jalila Foundation receives AED50 million from Eissa Al Othman Endowment to support development of Hamdan Bin Rashid Cancer Hospital

Dr. Amer Al Zarooni: Dubai has built a strong culture of sustainable giving, fostering strategic partnerships locally and internationally.

“This generous contribution reflects a deep commitment to philanthropy and healthcare advancement, reinforcing the values of compassion and solidarity that define our society”

Government of Dubai Media Office – 19 February 2025: Al Jalila Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Dubai Health, announced that it has received a AED50 million donation from the Eissa Abdullah Abdullaziz Al Othman Endowment in Kuwait to support the construction and development of the Hamdan Bin Rashid Cancer Hospital, Dubai’s first fully integrated, comprehensive cancer facility.

The contribution was formalised during a signing ceremony at Al Jalila Foundation, attended by Dr. Amer Al Zarooni, CEO of Al Jalila Foundation, along with endowment trustees Yousef Eissa Al Othman, Nabil Eissa Al Othman, and Abdulla Eissa Al Othman. The trustees were given an overview of the hospital project and briefed on the significant impact of their donation.

During the visit, the delegation toured Dubai Health’s facilities, including its flagship research and healthcare initiatives such as the Biobank and the Mohammed Bin Rashid Medical Research Institute. They also gained insights on various other projects supporting medical research, education, and patient care.

Dr. Amer Al Zarooni, CEO of Al Jalila Foundation, said: “Dubai has built a strong culture of sustainable giving, fostering strategic partnerships locally and internationally. This generous contribution reflects a deep commitment to philanthropy and healthcare advancement, reinforcing the values of compassion and solidarity that define our society. We are grateful for the donors’ trust, which plays a vital role in supporting humanitarian and medical initiatives that transform lives.”

He added: “This donation will play a vital role in changing the lives of many, as it offers hope and comfort to cancer patients and their families during challenging times.”

In recognition of the generous donation, the hospital’s intensive care unit (ICU) will be named the ‘Critical Care Unit-Supported By Waqf Eissa Abdullah Al Othman and Waqf Tiba Abdullwahab Al Othman – Kuwait.’

Faisal Eissa Al Othman, the representative of the endowment, said: “We are proud to collaborate with Al Jalila Foundation on this humanitarian initiative, which honours the legacy of the late Sheikh Hamdan bin Rashid Al Maktoum. This hospital will provide essential, specialised care for cancer patients, ensuring they receive the best possible treatment and support.”

He added: “Our donation is an extension of the legacy of Eissa Abdullah Abdullaziz Al Othman and Tiba Abdullwahab Abdullaziz Al Othman, who dedicated their lives to philanthropy and serving the community. Today, we follow in their footsteps, embracing their spirit of giving and reaffirming our commitment to supporting healthcare initiatives that make a meaningful difference to people’s lives. We firmly believe in strengthening the healthcare sector and hope that this endowment will help to make a positive impact on people’s lives, serving as an ongoing source of support for cancer patients.”

Part of Dubai Health, the Hamdan Bin Rashid Cancer Hospital will span 56,000 square metres, offering comprehensive cancer care under one roof. The facility is designed to serve around 30,000 patients annually.

Dubai Healthcare City Authority Partners with Al Jalila Foundation to Advance Medical Education and Research

Dubai Healthcare City Authority (DHCA), the governing body of Dubai Healthcare City (DHCC) free zone, has announced a strategic partnership with Al Jalila Foundation, which leads the Giving mission of Dubai Health. This partnership aims to foster opportunities for collaborative research, knowledge exchange and new initiatives to advance regional healthcare services.

As part of the agreement, DHCA will promote Al Jalila Foundation as its ‘Charity of Choice,’ collaborate on fundraising efforts and support Dubai Health’s initiatives, including the Hamdan Bin Rashid Cancer Hospital. The agreement also focuses on implementing charitable, volunteerism and humanitarian initiatives in the healthcare sector. Additionally, it aims to support aspiring healthcare professionals and enhance medical education, contributing to the development of a highly skilled healthcare workforce.

Issam Galadari, Chief Executive Officer of Dubai Healthcare City Authority, said: “This partnership underscores our commitment to supporting Al Jalila’s vital role in advancing medical education, research and innovation in Dubai. By collaborating on impactful initiatives and programmes, we are contributing to the foundation’s mission of enhancing healthcare initiative and services.”

Dr. Amer Al Zarooni, Chief Executive Officer of Al Jalila Foundation, commented: “At Al Jalila Foundation, we believe that collaboration is key to advancing healthcare and shaping a healthier future. Through this partnership with Dubai Healthcare City Authority, we are strengthening our commitment to medical education and research in the healthcare sector. Together, we will drive impactful initiatives that develop our healthcare professionals, which contribute towards building a future-ready healthcare ecosystem that meets the evolving needs of our community.”

Within the agreement, Al Jalila Foundation will deliver ‘Wellness on Wheels’ mobile clinic services to DHCC’s community and provide volunteering opportunities.

The agreement aligns with Dubai’s strategic vision of advancing healthcare industry and addressing the evolving needs of the city and beyond.

Al Jalila Foundation and Mediclinic Middle East sign Strategic Partnership Agreement

Al Jalila Foundation, which leads the Giving mission of Dubai Health, and Mediclinic Middle East, one of the UAE’s leading private healthcare providers, today signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to collaborate for the mutual purpose of enhancing patient care, supporting charitable initiatives and promoting community health and well-being.

The agreement was formalized by (enter name and designation of representative for AJF), and Hein van Eck, Chief Executive Officer of Mediclinic Middle East, at a ceremony held at Arab Health in Dubai.

This collaboration aligns with the Year of Community 2025 as declared by His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, underscoring a national commitment to social responsibility and collective progress. Through this partnership, Al Jalila Foundation and Mediclinic Middle East will drive initiatives to support patients and innovation in healthcare, implement volunteer and charitable programmes, and advance charitable and humanitarian work in healthcare.

Dr Amer Zarooni, CEO of Al Jalila Foundation, said: “At Al Jalila Foundation, we believe in the importance of partnership to broaden the reach of charitable healthcare initiatives. This partnership with Mediclinic Middle East Group reflects our shared commitment to enhancing the quality of healthcare in our communities. We are grateful for this partnership and look forward to achieving valuable initiatives that benefit patients and the community.”

Hein van Eck, Chief Executive Officer of Mediclinic Middle East, said: “We are delighted to enter this strategic partnership with Al Jalila Foundation, which will allow both parties to leverage their considerable capabilities for the greater good of patients in the UAE. In the spirit of the Year of Community, which aims to strengthen social bonds and foster shared responsibility, Mediclinic Middle East looks forward to supporting Al Jalila Foundation’s charitable initiatives and ensuring healthcare services are extended to more vulnerable communities.”

King’s College Hospital London Dubai and Al Jalila Foundation Partner to Enhance Charitable Healthcare in the UAE

King’s College Hospital London Dubai has partnered with Al Jalila Foundation, which leads the Giving mission of Dubai Health, to enhance healthcare access and community well-being through charitable initiatives. The agreement was signed at Arab Health 2025 by Kimberly Pierce, CEO of King’s College Hospital London Dubai, and Dr. Amer Al Zarooni, CEO of Al Jalila Foundation.

Key areas of collaboration include:

  • Improving Access to Quality Healthcare: Initiatives will focus on providing quality healthcare, especially to underserved communities.
  • Supporting Charitable Programs: The partnership will enhance volunteer-driven efforts, including the “Wellness on Wheels” mobile medical clinic.
  • Promoting Community Health: The collaboration aims to support organ transplantation programs and assist female cancer patients at ‘Majlis Al Amal.’

Kimberly Pierce stated, “This agreement reflects our commitment to serving the community. Together with Dubai Health and Al Jalila Foundation, we aim to bring hope and care to those in need.” Dr. Amer Al Zarooni added, “This partnership enhances access to quality healthcare and aligns with Dubai Health’s ‘Patient First’ promise.”

About King’s College Hospital London Dubai
King’s College Hospital Dubai delivers world-class healthcare, leveraging expertise from its London counterpart to provide exceptional patient care across a wide range of specialties.

Empowering Tomorrow’s Healthcare Heroes

Al Jalila Foundation believes investing in knowledge drives progress. With the generous support of the Meem Foundation,we aresponsoring ten outstanding Emirati students in their pursuit of advanced medical education.

The scholarship recipients are testament to our shared commitment to advancing our nation’s healthcare sector and fulfilling our shared vision of creating a lasting impact in the UAE. Through their studies at the Mohammed bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences, and Queen’s University Belfast, these students will gain global expertise to serve their communities in the UAE.Among these scholars is Meera Abdulrahman Mubarak Ali Alghafri, whose impressive GPA of 3.96 in her Periodontology MSc reflects both academic talent and dedication to enhancing patient care.

With the support of the Al Jalila Foundation and the Meem Foundation, Meera has gained essential skills and a compassionate approach to care. The reach of the scholarship program goes beyond individual success. By investing in these talented Emiratis, we are building a healthcare workforce ready to meet evolving needs and to deliver care that aligns with our shared vision of a healthier, more resilient community.

Scholarship recipient Meera Abdulrahman Mubarak Ali Alghafri received a special invitation to meet His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, and His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and UAE Deputy Prime Minister, and Minister of Defence of the UAE.

Each graduating scholar strengthens our nation’s healthcare capacity and builds a legacy of compassionate care. By nurturing Emirati talent, we are focusing on empowering our future healthcare professionals to save lives and inspire hope in patients.

Thanks to the support of the Meem Foundation, the ten students are pursuing studies in Cardiovascular Nursing, Paediatric Nursing, Orthodontics, and Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery.
By supporting students, we believe our vision of hope spreads further – touching more lives and strengthening our community.

We are deeply grateful to the Meem Foundation for making these dreams possible. Together, we are building a legacy of compassion, resilience and empowerment that will uplift our nation and transform countless lives for generations to come.