All posts by Abdullah Zafar

Press Release

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.

Stories of Hope

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.

Stories of Hope

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.”

Press Release

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.

Press Release

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.

Stories of Hope

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.

Press Release

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.”

Stories of Hope

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 A’awen 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.

Press Release

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.

Press Release

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.”