Al Jalila Foundation, which leads the giving mission of Dubai Health, announced that Saeed Ahmed Lootah Charity Foundation has donated AED 15 million to support the development of the Hamdan Bin Rashid Cancer Hospital, Dubai’s first integrated, comprehensive cancer hospital. This donation underscores Saeed Ahmed Lootah Charity Foundation’s commitment to advancing sustainable charitable and humanitarian work and reinforcing Dubai’s pioneering role in healthcare excellence.

Set to open in 2026, the hospital honors the legacy of the late Sheikh Hamdan bin Rashid Al Maktoum, paying tribute to his lifetime of service to the nation and extraordinary global philanthropic activities that continue to touch the lives of many around the world. The hospital is being developed with the support of generous donations received from philanthropists, government and non-government organizations, UAE businesses and corporates.

Engineer Hussain Nasser Lootah, Member of the Board of Trustees of the Saeed Ahmed Lootah Charity Foundation, said: “Inspired by our visionary leadership, which has embedded philanthropy into its core humanitarian strategies, the Saeed Ahmed Lootah Charity Foundation, led by H.E. Lieutenant General Dhahi Khalfan Tamim, Chairman of the Board of Trustees, remains committed to social responsibility, education, and medical research support. We are pleased to contribute towards the Hamdan Bin Rashid Cancer Hospital, aligning our efforts with Al Jalila Foundation to ensure equitable and essential access to cancer care. This partnership reflects the core principles of our esteemed founder, Haj Saeed Ahmed Lootah, who championed education, healthcare, and scientific research. Our dedication extends beyond borders, encompassing local and global charitable and humanitarian endeavors.”

Dr. Thani Al Mheriri, CEO of Education & Health at Saeed Ahmed Lootah Charity Foundation, said: “By joining hands, we aim to make a meaningful impact in the fight against cancer and advancing medical research. Our dedication to medical education and healthcare is deeply rooted in our legacy; Dubai Medical College for Girls, which was established forty years ago as the first institution for medical education for girls in the Gulf region, is now a prominent contributor to the healthcare landscape.”

Dr. Amer Al Zarooni, CEO of Al Jalila Foundation, said: “Donor support is an integral part of our success in developing the Hamdan Bin Rashid Cancer Hospital. We are grateful to Saeed Ahmed Lootah Charity Foundation, which has committed to helping us support cancer patients and their families. The hospital will bring together cancer expertise and make an invaluable contribution to Dubai’s healthcare sector, putting patient care first.”

“Together, we are one step closer to establishing a center of excellence that will transform cancer care in the UAE.” he added.

The 116-bed hospital will occupy 56,000 square meters. It will provide best-in-class outpatient, ambulatory and diagnostic services as well as inpatient and surgical services in a nurturing environment that features personalized patient care.

As part of Dubai Health, the first integrated academic health system in Dubai, the comprehensive cancer hospital will benefit from a multidisciplinary team, including specialized nursing, offering patients a full spectrum of care services in one location, from early diagnosis to treatment and supportive care. Aligning with Dubai Health’s Patient First promise, select treatments and services will be made available to patients in the comfort of their homes, ensuring an easy and accessible continuum of care.

Al Jalila Foundation, which leads the giving mission of Dubai Health, the first integrated academic health system in Dubai, announced that Meem Foundation, a Dubai-based philanthropic organization, has generously donated AED 3 million to support medical education and treatment programs to empower women and girls.

Aligned with Meem Foundation’s values of creating pathways for women and girls to achieve economic empowerment and access to healthcare, the donation is earmarked for medical scholarships for aspiring female students, providing them with the opportunity to pursue careers in healthcare and medical treatments tailored for women, including mothers and children, ensuring access to essential healthcare services.

Muna Easa Al Gurg, Emirati businesswoman, philanthropist, and founder of Meem Foundation, said: “We invest in strategic philanthropic initiatives in the MENA region to address issues impacting the lives of women and girls while helping to bridge the gender gap. Our partnership with Al Jalila Foundation is a testament to our commitment. Together, we aim to empower aspiring young women to pursue their educational goals and accelerate their medical careers. Our partnership will also support patient treatment programs for women and girls, ensuring that health is never a barrier to achieving their dreams. At Meem Foundation, we envision a future where every woman and girl has the opportunity to thrive, irrespective of the challenges they face.”

Dr Amer Al Zarooni, CEO of Al Jalila Foundation, said: “For over a decade, Al Jalila Foundation has made a significant impact on lives through its patient treatment programs, medical scholarships and research grants. Our collaboration with Meem Foundation exemplifies the collective effort needed to deliver life-transforming health programs. The funds received will enable us to support women and girls, empowering them to step into a more promising tomorrow.”

Meem Foundation is a Dubai-based organization committed to finding innovative entrepreneurial solutions to gender inequality, aligned with the UN Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 5. It is committed to creating sustainable solutions that uplift women and girls, empowering them to thrive in all aspects of life.

Dubai Health, the first integrated academic health system in Dubai, was established to elevate the standard of care and to advance health for humanity. Dubai Health comprises six hospitals, 27 ambulatory health centers, 20 medical fitness centers, Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences, and Al Jalila Foundation. Through the integration of care, learning, discovery, and giving, eleven thousand employees collaborate across multidisciplinary teams to put the patient first.

His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Chairman of The Executive Council of Dubai attended a ceremony unveiling the design of the Hamdan Bin Rashid Cancer Hospital, part of Dubai Health. Set to be Dubai’s first integrated, comprehensive cancer hospital, the event also announced the hospital’s groundbreaking model of care.

Marking a significant step in terms of providing advanced and accessible cancer care, Dubai Health announced that the Hamdan Bin Rashid Cancer Hospital is to open in 2026. The hospital honors the legacy of the late Sheikh Hamdan bin Rashid Al Maktoum, paying tribute to his lifetime of service to the nation and extraordinary global philanthropic activities that continue to touch the lives of many around the world.

The ceremony was held at the site allocated for the hospital in the presence of His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman of the Dubai Health Board of Directors; His Highness Sheikh Mansoor bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice Chairman of the Dubai Health Board of Directors; and Sheikh Rashid bin Hamdan bin Rashid Al Maktoum, President of the Hamdan bin Rashid Al Maktoum Establishment for Medical and Educational Sciences.

His Excellency Awadh Seghayer Al Ketbi, Director General of Dubai Health Authority (DHA); Her Excellency Dr. Raja Easa Al Gurg, Chairperson of Al Jalila Foundation Board of Directors and Dubai Health Board Member, and His Excellency Dr. Amer Ahmad Sharif, CEO of Dubai Health also attended the ceremony among other officials and donors.

The Hamdan Bin Rashid Cancer Hospital is being developed with the aid of generous donations received through Al Jalila Foundation, which leads Dubai Health’s giving mission. The collective contributions of individuals and organizations will support the establishment of the 56,000²m hospital.

Reflection of Dubai Social Agenda 33

HH Sheikh Hamdan said, “The Hamdan Bin Rashid Cancer Hospital honors the humanitarian legacy of the late Sheikh Hamdan bin Rashid Al Maktoum. This new addition to the health system in Dubai will play a crucial role in achieving the Dubai Social Agenda 33 goal to deliver the most efficient world-class healthcare system of the highest quality.”

HH Sheikh Hamdan thanked all donors who had contributed to the hospital project, highlighting their support as invaluable contributions to building the future of Dubai and its healthcare sector.

Beacon of hope

HH Sheikh Ahmed said, “The Hamdan Bin Rashid Cancer Hospital is a fitting tribute to the late Sheikh Hamdan Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, resonating with his belief that helping others was not just a duty but a blessing. The Hamdan Bin Rashid Cancer Hospital will stand as a beacon of hope, a hub of innovation, and a promise to provide excellent care to our patients in Dubai and beyond. With some of the world’s leading experts, cutting-edge technology, and a compassionate approach, we will create an environment that fosters healing and resilience in the region.”

HH Sheikh Mansour said, “The Hamdan Bin Rashid Cancer Hospital will break new ground in elevating cancer care standards, reaffirming Dubai Health’s commitment to advancing health for humanity. Together, we will honor the legacy of the late Sheikh Hamdan Bin Rashid Al Maktoum and realize Dubai’s ambition to be a global leader in healthcare innovation, ensuring access to world-class medical services for all.”

The hospital, located in the Al Jaddaf area, is envisaged to host 50 clinics, 30 clinical research areas, 60 infusion rooms, 10 urgent care rooms, 5 radiotherapy rooms, and 116 inpatient beds. Enhancing the healing environment for patients and their families will be 19 gardens distributed across the hospital campus. Stantec, a global leader in sustainable design and engineering, has been appointed as the architect for the project.

As part of Dubai Health, the first integrated academic health system in Dubai, the comprehensive cancer hospital will benefit from a multidisciplinary team, including specialized nursing, offering patients a full spectrum of care services in one location, from early diagnosis to treatment and supportive care. Aligning with Dubai Health’s ‘Patient First’ promise, select treatments and services will be made available to patients in the comfort of their homes, ensuring an easy and accessible continuum of care.

HE Dr. Raja Easa Al Gurg said, “We extend our deepest gratitude to all our generous donors for upholding the spirit of giving, echoing the legacy of the late Sheikh Hamdan bin Rashid Al Maktoum. The hospital is a collective endeavor, a testament to our shared humanity, uniting us against a global challenge.”

New model of care

The hospital will spearhead a transformative shift in care delivery, moving from a traditional inpatient model to an ambulatory model of care. This shift includes integrating primary care with diagnosis and treatment to offer detection and intervention at earlier stages of the patient’s journey.

Research and clinical trials will be at the heart of the hospital’s array of services, fostering opportunities for discovering the best patient outcomes through personalized, patient-centric, evidence-based care.

Al Jalila Foundation honored the Islamic Affairs and Charitable Activities Department (IACAD) in a ceremony recognizing the enduring partnership and invaluable contribution to transforming lives through the Foundation’s impactful giving mission over the last ten years.

The ceremony, held at Al Jalila Foundation, was attended by H.E. Dr Raja Easa Saleh Al Gurg, Chairperson of Al Jalila Foundation Board of Directors and Dubai Health Board Member; H.E Ahmed Darwish Al Muhairi, Director General of Islamic Affairs and Charitable Activities Department, and a number of senior officials from both entities.

Attendees had the opportunity to witness Al Jalila Foundation’s impactful work as they toured the Mohammed Bin Rashid Medical Research Institute, including The Center for Communicable Diseases and The Center for Protein Engineering, both funded by IACAD. During the visit, the IACAD delegates were briefed on the Foundation’s achievements over the past decade and its plans for 2024.

Al Jalila Foundation paid tribute to IACAD’s significant contribution by dedicating a ‘Crystal of Hope’ bearing IACAD’s name. IACAD’s name was also engraved on the Bassmat Rashid Bin Saeed donor recognition wall, symbolizing their unwavering support.

H.E. Dr Raja Easah Saleh Al Gurg, expressed deep gratitude to IACAD, stating: “We extend our heartfelt thanks to the Department of Islamic Affairs and Charitable Activities for supporting the Al Jalila Foundation’s vision to advance health for humanity. Our journey, rooted in the values of giving and delivering hope, has been made possible through the generosity and ongoing support of our donors and supporters, including IACAD. We look forward to continuing this journey to serve the community and advance philanthropy in the UAE.”

H.E. Ahmed Darwish Al Muhairi, said: “In line with the directives of the wise leadership to establish Dubai as a model for global charitable and humanitarian work, IACAD reiterates its commitment to become the world’s best, Islamic, and charitable entity by the year 2033. This commitment involves actively participating in and supporting community initiatives, including health initiatives in the country. Through the Community Solidarity Fund, we have funded the establishment of The Center for Communicable Diseases and The Center for Protein Engineering at Al Jalila Foundation with a sum of 15 million dirhams, reaffirming the IACAD’s unwavering support for these projects that aligns with the humanitarian principles of the UAE, aiming to preserve the health and well-being of the community.”

“We remain actively engaged, collaborating with all relevant entities in the UAE to unify the efforts towards adopting sustainable and pioneering charitable initiatives and projects, dedicated to supporting charitable and humanitarian work, and ultimately promoting the well-being and happiness of the community.” He added.

Dubai Health today announced the launch of ‘The Child Fund’ by Al Jalila Foundation, in the presence of His Highness Sheikh Mansoor bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice Chairman of the Dubai Health Board of Directors. The pioneering annual charitable fund amounting to AED50 million will be dedicated to providing essential medical treatment for 3,000 children every year at Al Jalila Children’s Hospital, the UAE’s first and only dedicated children’s hospital.

The announcement was made at Al Jalila Children’s Hospital in the presence of Her Excellency Dr. Raja Easa Saleh Al Gurg, Chairperson of Al Jalila Foundation Board of Directors and Dubai Health Board Member; His Excellency Dr. Amer Sharif, CEO of Dubai Health and President of the Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences (MBRU), Dr. Amer Al Zarooni, Chief Executive Officer of Al Jalila Foundation, Dr. Abdulla Al Khayat, Chief Executive Officer of Al Jalila Children’s Hospital, in addition to a number of officials and major donors.

During his tour of Al Jalila Children’s Hospital, HH Sheikh Mansoor visited a group of young patients and was briefed on the hospital’s specialty services that underscore its commitment to prioritising child-friendly healthcare focused on quality and excellence.

His Highness Sheikh Mansoor bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum conveyed his gratitude to all donors and contributors who play a pivotal role in upholding the highest standards of excellence within the health system in Dubai. Their collective efforts contribute significantly to providing the best forms of healthcare, particularly for children. This commitment aligns with the enduring values of giving and compassion that have consistently defined the people of the UAE and its society, His Highness said.

Sheikh Mansoor said: “The launch of ‘The Child Fund’ underscores our steadfast dedication to ensuring comprehensive care for children, which is a paramount focus within Dubai’s health system. We consider it our fundamental responsibility to uphold the highest standards of care for them, as they symbolise the foundation of our future. Through such community initiatives, our goal is to extend support and deliver treatment to the largest number of children, with the ultimate aim of enabling them to lead normal lives.”

‘The Child Fund’ will serve as a dedicated children’s charity programme designed to raise funds for providing essential, life-saving medical support to children in need. Beyond being a beacon of hope for children and their families in the UAE, the initiative aims to cultivate a culture of giving within the community, ensuring that every child receives the care they need to thrive.

Her Excellency Dr. Raja Al Gurg highlighted Al Jalila Foundation’s role in supporting Dubai Health’s philanthropic mission: “For over a decade, Al Jalila Foundation has made a significant impact through its A’awen patient treatment programme, touching the lives of thousands of patients and their families across the UAE. With this new fund, we pledge to extend the reach of our care and provide renewed hope for a brighter and more promising tomorrow for even more children. ‘The Child Fund’ reaffirms our heartfelt commitment to securing a healthy future for our children. Today, we proudly recognise the unwavering dedication and generosity of our donors and supporters who, together, united by care and compassion, are lighting the path to healing young lives.”

Dr. Abdulla Al Khayat, said: “’The Child Fund’ goes beyond just providing essential medical treatment for children in need, it is a beacon of hope for families and their loved ones facing life-threatening illnesses. Through this initiative our dedicated team of doctors and physicians can extend life-saving care to those who cannot afford access to necessary treatments.”

“We are eternally grateful for the opportunities ‘The Child Fund’ will provide to our doctors and physicians, aligning with Al Jalila Children’s unwavering dedication to excellence in treating young patients. The Fund, reflecting our ‘Patient First’ promise, will enable us to extend care to children of all ages, empowering them to step into a more promising tomorrow,” said Dr. Al Khayat.

‘The Giving Wall’

During the launch, ‘The Giving Wall’ was unveiled as a tribute to the donors and contributors that have impacted children’s lives through their support to Al Jalila Foundation. They were invited to sign a pledge in support of the AED50 million annual fund dedicated to providing essential medical care for 3,000 children per year. Notable partners include the Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Humanitarian & Charity Establishment; Easa Saleh Al Gurg Charity Foundation; Islamic Affairs & Charitable Activities Department; Awqaf Dubai; Albatha Holding; IFFCO; and Tarahum.

‘The Child Fund’ builds on Al Jalila Foundation’s impactful history of philanthropic achievements in supporting a number of healthcare programmes in medical education, research and patient care transforming thousands of lives. The Foundation has supported medical treatment to over 8,600 patients, including 30% children, suffering from life-threatening conditions including cancer, cardiovascular disease and other chronic illnesses, underscoring its ongoing commitment to transforming lives of those in need in the community.

For more information on ‘The Child Fund’, please visit: https://www.aljalilafoundation.ae/the-child-fund

Al Jalila Foundation is celebrating the 10th anniversary of its Ta’alouf Program this month. The milestone marks a decade of commitment to equipping parents, education professionals and caregivers with the skills and knowledge to better understand the learning needs of children of determination, as well as recognising the impact the program has had in the UAE.

Launched in 2013, the Parents Training program is the cornerstone of Ta’alouf. Over the course of 10 years and 22 cohorts, over 1,100 parents and caregivers have graduated from the program, representing 36 nationalities residing in all seven Emirates. These parents – 16 per cent of whom are fathers – care for children facing diverse challenges, including Down Syndrome, Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), Cerebral Palsy, and other learning difficulties.

In 2014, Al Jalila Foundation in partnership with Zayed University, launched the Teachers Training program to support educators and parents in promoting inclusive education. The program, supported by the UAE’s Ministry of Education and Dubai’s Knowledge and Human Development Authority, is delivered in both English and Arabic, and educators from both public and private schools benefit from the program. The program runs concurrently with the Parents Training program enhancing the continuum of care from home to school.

Over the years, the program has continued to evolve, making a substantial difference in the lives of teachers, parents, and, most importantly, children of determination. To date, over 600 teachers representing 34 nationalities from 68 public schools and 53 private schools have successfully graduated from the Teachers Training program.

“It has been a rewarding experience to support educators and caregivers in their interactions with children of determination over the past decade through the Ta’alouf program,” said Dr Amer Al Zarooni, Chief Executive Officer at Al Jalila Foundation. “The UAE is one of the most inclusive, welcoming places, and it is a top priority for our leaders to provide a friendly atmosphere for all. We are delighted to have contributed to helping parents and teachers enhance their influence and understanding both inside and outside the classroom, ultimately making a meaningful difference in the lives of people of determination throughout the country.”

Saleema Mahmoodi, Principal of Our Own English High School in Fujairah, was part of the sixth cohort of the Teachers Training program: “The Teachers Training program has broadened my understanding of inclusive education. Equipped with vital skills, I create an inclusive classroom where every student’s unique needs are met. Thanks to this initiative, I’m fostering a future where every student’s talents are recognised and celebrated.”

Fida Sulaiman, a mother who was part of the second cohort of the Parents Training program in 2013 said: “I’ve gained transformative skills that have not only enriched my child’s life, but also deepened our bond. This program is not about managing disorders; it’s about embracing the unique strengths of my child, celebrating her achievements, and nurturing her dreams. With the knowledge I gained, I felt empowered to champion my child’s abilities and advocate for a world where every individual, regardless of their challenges, is recognised for their extraordinary gifts.”

Ta’alouf, meaning “harmony” in Arabic, embodies the spirit of working together with strategic partners, parents, educators, and the wider community to empower children of determination. The success of the program has encouraged Al Jalila Foundation to explore further avenues to improve and develop the potential of people of determination. The Ta’alouf Talent Scout program was launched in 2022 to identify and nurture the talents and strengths of people of determination, encouraging them to pursue meaningful life opportunities in education and society.

For more information on the Ta’alouf Program, please visit: www.aljalilafoundation.ae/taalouf/

Al Jalila Foundation, a global philanthropic organisation dedicated to transforming lives through medical education and research, announced today that it is developing a AED46 million endowment that seeks to generate revenue to fund the medical education and research programmes of Dubai Academic Health Corporation (DAHC). The seven-floor residential building, ‘Oud Metha Residential Building Endowment’, is projected to yield an 8% return to advance pioneering research to transform lives.

Dr Amer Al Zarooni, CEO of Al Jalila Foundation, said: “In our efforts to support DAHC’s giving mission, we are continuously seeking innovative financial models to support our projects and programmes. Since its inception in 2013, Al Jalila Foundation has launched four building endowments, including the UAE’s first medical research endowment. Our latest endowment will generate sustainable income, while giving donors the opportunity to contribute towards impactful medical education and research programmes, aligning with our vision to advance health for humanity.”

Scheduled to commence construction in 2023 on a land granted by the Government of Dubai, the prestigious ‘Oud Metha Residential Building Endowment’ is set to reach completion by the end of 2024. Designed by Arif & Bintoak Consulting Architects and Engineers, it will consist of 60 apartments ranging from studios to one, two and three-bedroom apartments. The residential building will also house a state-of-the-art gym and a children’s play area.

The AED46 million value of the endowment has been divided into 46,000 shares each valued at AED1,000. Sharafi Holding has already taken the lead in contributing AED1 million towards the endowment with the purchase of 1,000 shares, setting an inspiring example for other prospective donors to follow.

In efforts to amplify donor outreach across diverse multi-channel platforms, Al Jalila Foundation now offers shares for purchase online providing a seamless and convenient way for individuals to contribute to the Endowment Fund and drive positive change.

Dr Amer added: “The new online share purchasing feature embodies simplicity, accessibility, and security, enabling benefactors from anywhere, at any time, to participate in driving positive change.”

For more information or to purchase shares please visit https://www.aljalilafoundation.ae/get-involved/endowment-waqf/.