Al Jalila Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Dubai Health, has announced a strategic partnership with the Dubai International Arbitration Centre (DIAC), the largest arbitral institution in the Middle East, Africa and South Asia region, to strengthen community outreach and advance health initiatives through joint charitable efforts.

The collaboration will bring together the healthcare and legal sectors in support of Al Jalila Foundation’s mission, through community engagement, donor outreach, and awareness initiatives.

As part of the agreement, ”DIAC’s name will be added to Al Jalila Foundation’s donor recognition wall, commemorating their generous contribution, and the Foundation will be recognized as a charitable partner across DIAC’s communication channels.

The agreement reflects the goals of the UAE Year of Community and highlights both organizations’ commitment to creating sustainable impact. By strengthening cross-sector collaboration, the initiative supports national efforts to promote a collective sense of social responsibility.

Dr. Amer Al Zarooni, CEO of Al Jalila Foundation, said: “We are proud to partner with DIAC in a collaboration that reflects our shared vision of building a healthier and more compassionate society. Their support enables us to expand our reach and deepen our impact within the community.”

He added: “Strategic alliances like this are key to our mission. They allow us to work across sectors, leverage expertise and create sustainable, lasting change in people’s lives.”

Jehad Kazim, Executive Director of Dubai International Arbitration Centre said: “DIAC believes institutions have a responsibility to serve the communities of which they are a part. By partnering with Al Jalila Foundation, we will harness the collective strength of the legal and arbitration community to bring about tangible, positive change.

“This partnership reflects our values and our belief in the transformative power of giving.”

Earlier this year, DIAC hosted a Ramadan Charity Suhoor that raised over AED 100,000 to support The Child Fund by Al Jalila Foundation, highlighting the organization’s dedication to social impact.

Al Jalila Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Dubai Health, has partnered with AmCham Dubai, The American Business Council in Dubai, to launch the Revive & Thrive returnship program, designed to help women re-enter the workforce after cancer treatment.

The innovative initiative has already achieved remarkable success, with nine members of Al Jalila Foundation’s Majlis Al Amal successfully placed in returnship roles with reputable organizations across various sectors.

Majlis Al Amal, meaning Hope Lounge in Arabic, is Al Jalila Foundation’s unique cancer drop-in center and the first of its kind community that is dedicated to the wellbeing of female cancer patients and survivors.

The center provides a safe space for cancer patients and their family members to enhance their emotional health in a relaxed, and supportive environment.

The Revive & Thrive program addresses a significant challenge facing cancer survivors in the UAE and globally. Research indicates that between 26 percent and 53 percent of cancer survivors either lose their jobs or quit working during or after treatment, according to a study published by the National Institutes of Health (NIH).

This employment disruption can lead to financial instability, hinder career progression and diminish confidence in re-entering the workforce. Women, in particular, may opt to leave their jobs to prioritize their health, further impacting their financial and professional trajectories.

The Revive & Thrive program offers structured support through three key pillars: training, mentorship and six-month paid returnships. These returnships provide women with a gradual re-entry into the workforce, allowing them to rebuild their self-confidence and gain practical experience under the guidance of mentors at participating companies. The program also supports them in their ongoing job search, should they wish to pursue permanent opportunities.

Dr. Amer Al Zarooni, CEO of Al Jalila Foundation said: “Majlis Al Amal was established as a comprehensive support center for women affected by cancer, recognizing that healing extends far beyond medical treatment to encompass emotional, social and professional wellbeing.

The Revive & Thrive program represents a natural evolution of our mission, addressing the critical challenge of professional reintegration that many cancer survivors face.”

He added: “Through our partnership with AmCham Dubai, we are demonstrating that with the right support and collaborative community effort, women can successfully rebuild their careers and regain their confidence in the workplace. Placing nine women into meaningful employment demonstrates the real impact of our engagement programs and our commitment to transforming lives.”

Cara Nazari, CEO of AmCham Dubai said: “AmCham Dubai’s Revive & Thrive program, launched in collaboration with the Majlis Al Amal by Al Jalila Foundation, continues to create meaningful impact by supporting women returning to the workforce after a career break.

“Built around the pillars of training, mentorship and paid returnships, this initiative connects determined jobseekers with private sector leaders committed to fostering inclusive growth and opportunity. Led by our HR Committee, Revive & Thrive is more than a program – it’s a movement.

“From mentoring sessions and workshops to successful job placements, we are proud to help talented women reignite their professional journeys. This initiative reflects the heart of our mission: empowering people through connection, opportunity and action.”

The Revive & Thrive program has attracted participation from leading organizations including GE Aerospace, Medtronic, Cigna Healthcare, FedEx, NAS Neuron and MENA Legal, demonstrating strong private sector commitment to supporting cancer survivors’ professional reintegration.

The success of the Revive & Thrive program demonstrates the positive impact that can be achieved when healthcare organizations, business communities and private sector partners collaborate to create meaningful change in the lives of those affected by cancer.

Dubai Charity Association announced a donation of AED 1.5 million to support Dubai Health programs and initiatives. The donation will benefit Al Jalila Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Dubai Health, and Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences (MBRU), its learning and discovery arm.

Of the total amount, AED 1 million has been allocated to Al Jalila Foundation’s A’awen program, which provides financial assistance to patients in need of critical medical treatment across the UAE.

The remaining AED 500,000 will fund medical scholarships at MBRU, supporting the development of future healthcare professionals.

The contribution highlights Dubai Charity Association’s continued commitment to strengthening healthcare and education, sectors that play a fundamental role in community wellbeing and long-term progress.

The generous support was presented by Dubai Charity Association Executive Director Ahmed Ibrahim Al Suwaidi to Dr. Amer Al Zarooni, CEO of Al Jalila Foundation at Dubai Health headquarters, in attendance of Dubai Charity Association Board Vice Chairman Mostafa Karam and Board Member and Treasurer of the Association Eng. Adel Obaid Al Suwaidi.

Ahmed Ibrahim Al Suwaidi said: “Our collaboration with Al Jalila Foundation and MBRU reflects a commitment to sustainable development and social wellbeing. We believe in supporting institutions that drive long-term change, and we’re confident this contribution will help advance healthcare.”

Dr. Amer Al Zarooni affirmed: “We are proud to partner with Dubai Charity Association, whose support continues to strengthen our mission. Their investment in medical care and education enables us to transform lives, and contribute to building a healthcare system that delivers lasting impact.

“This contribution also aligns with the goals of Dubai Social Agenda 33, which aims to build the most efficient healthcare ecosystem.”

This initiative forms part of Dubai Charity Association’s broader commitment to enhancing essential services across the city, including healthcare, education, housing and social care, and reinforces Dubai’s vision of becoming a global hub for human development.

Landmark Group’s SHOEMART, the region’s leading family footwear destination, has launched a specially designed line of diabetic footwear under its comfort brand, Le Confort. Developed to help reduce foot discomfort and pressure for diabetic patients, this new product line launch formed a new meaningful collaboration with Al Jalila Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Dubai Health, which is dedicated to transforming lives through supporting medical treatment, education and research.

As part of this collaboration and Landmark Group’s long-standing Beat Diabetes initiative, SHOEMART is proud to support Al Jalila Foundation’s nationwide efforts, with proceeds from every Le Confort Diabetic Shoe contributing to their life-changing programs across the UAE.

The Le Confort Diabetic Shoes are carefully designed to prioritize both comfort and support. Key features include wide toe boxes for swollen feet, breathable materials, memory foam insoles, and slip-resistant soles. These features offer stability, shock absorption, and all-day wearability for individuals managing diabetes or related conditions. The specialised footwear line is also affordably priced to ensure greater accessibility for all diabetic patients.

“Given the prevalence of diabetes in the region, this initiative reflects our commitment to innovation with purpose,” said Mr. Dinesh Shahani, CEO of Landmark Group’s Footwear Division. “Our partnership with Al Jalila Foundation reflects our ongoing commitment to serve our customers’ various footwear needs, delivering comfort through our products while also giving back to the community that supports us.”

Dr. Amer Al Zarooni, CEO of Al Jalila Foundation, said “We commend Landmark Group for their long-standing commitment to raising awareness and funds for diabetes care through the Beat Diabetes initiative. Our partnership with SHOEMART brings together innovation and accessibility to enhance the wellbeing of diabetic patients. Proceeds from this footwear line will help provide vital care for those in need, reinforcing our belief in the power of community partnerships.”

He added: “This collaboration exemplifies how purpose-driven partnerships can empower patients, raise awareness, and expand access to essential healthcare services.”

With more than 160 stores across the GCC, SHOEMART has been serving families for over 35 years. The Le Confort Diabetic Shoes are now available at all SHOEMART locations within CENTREPOINT stores in the UAE, and online at CenterpointStores.com.

Dubai Airports organized a guided travel simulation experience at Dubai International Airport (DXB) for a group of children with autism spectrum disorder enrolled in the Ta’alouf Programme. The programme is run by Al Jalila Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Dubai Health. The experience aimed to boost the children’s self-confidence and prepare them and their families to travel with ease and peace of mind.

The Ta’alouf Programme, which Al Jalila Foundation launched 13 years ago, serves as a vital pillar in empowering families of people of determination and educators. It equips them with the knowledge and skills needed to understand children’s behavioural, psychological and educational needs. The programme supports the integration of people of determination into society, particularly for those facing challenges such as autism spectrum disorder, Down syndrome, mental delays and others. It focuses on unlocking their potential and turning challenges into opportunities for skill building.

The initiative was carried out in collaboration with teams from the oneDXB community, (a network of stakeholders involved in the operations and passenger experience at Dubai International Airport), caregivers, volunteers and airport front-line staff. It aligns with the goals of the UAE Year of the Community and reflects a shared belief in the importance of collective action to create a more inclusive and supportive travel experience for families of people of determination.

Majed Al Joker, Chief Operating Officer of Dubai Airports, said: “This initiative shows the real impact we can make when we work together. Accessibility is not only about physical infrastructure, but also about how we respond to individual needs with empathy and care. A supportive airport environment can make all the difference for a child of determination and their caregivers.”

Dr. Amer Al Zarooni, CEO of Al Jalila Foundation, expressed his gratitude to Dubai Airports for partnering on this initiative, which supports people of determination, and their families prepare for airport travel with confidence and ease. He said this step aligns with the UAE’s national policy to empower people of determination and integrate them into society and public life, while also reflecting DXB’s efforts to enhance accessibility and ease travel experiences for all.

The travel simulation experience is one of several initiatives implemented by Dubai Airports to enhance the travel journey for people of determination and their caregivers. It is part of the airport’s commitment to providing a more inclusive and accessible travel environment.

The experience was conducted with the support of trained Guest Experience Ambassadors in a calm and organized setting. This helped participants from Al Jalila Foundation feel more at ease while navigating the airport and preparing for future travel.

During the simulation, families had the opportunity to explore different areas of the airport and ask questions. This helped them build a sense of familiarity and confidence, making future travel experiences less stressful and more positive.

Many people of determination, especially those with autism spectrum disorder, face unique challenges when traveling through airports. These include unfamiliar procedures, sensory stimuli and crowded environments. The simulation experience helps children, and their families become familiar with each stage of the travel journey, from arriving at the airport and completing check-in, passport control and security screening, to reaching the boarding gates and arrival halls. This step-by-step exposure gives them the time they need to adapt at each phase of the process.

This initiative is part of Dubai Airports’ strategy to make travel easier and more inclusive for everyone. Through its We All Meet the World Differently campaign, Dubai Airports adopts inclusive practices and provides continuous training for employees to ensure support for travellers with both visible and invisible challenges at every stage of their journey, from arrival to boarding.

Dubai International Airport is the first international airport in the world to be awarded the Certified Autism Center (CAC) designation by the International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards (IBCCES). These achievements reflect Dubai Airports’ commitment to supporting neurodivergent travellers and their families and to reinforcing Dubai’s position as one of the most inclusive and accessible cities in the world.

The travel simulation experience is one of several initiatives implemented by Dubai Airports to improve the travel experience for people of determination and their caregivers.

For more information about Dubai Airports’ accessibility initiatives, please visit:
https://dubaiairports.ae/hidden-disabilities

In a unanimous effort to advocate for inclusion and empowerment in sports, Dubai Basketball is proud to announce Al Jalila Foundation as the Official Supporting Partner for the 2024/25 calendar and the upcoming 2025/26 season.

Marking the significant milestone, Dubai Basketball welcomed over 10 beneficiaries of Al Jalila Foundation children’s programs to meet the team that are making headlines in European basketball. The collaboration marks a shared commitment to driving inclusive participation in sport and supporting healthcare initiatives through the power of community engagement.

As Dubai Basketball celebrates a season of achievements and historic accolades, the heart of the city’s first-ever sports club lies with the community. Driven to create a fan community like never done before, Dubai Basketball has welcomed over 60,000 spectators to Coca-Cola Arena over the 2024/25 season. Collaborating with Al Jalila Foundation cements the teams’ vision to bring the community together and champion sport as a platform for good. This partnership underscores the joint mission to uplift children’s lives and promote the values of compassion, inclusivity, and hope through sport.

Dejan Kamenjašević, General Manager at Dubai Basketball, commented, “At Dubai Basketball, we believe sport has the power to transform lives. Partnering with Al Jalila Foundation allows us to go beyond the game and make a meaningful difference in the lives of children and families across the country. Whether it’s through a hospital visit or welcoming young patients to our games, we’re proud to stand alongside a foundation that shares our values of compassion, inclusion, and community impact.”

Dr Amer Al Zarooni, CEO of Al Jalila Foundation, commented, “Philanthropy has the power to create lasting change. United by the universal language of sport, our collaboration with Dubai Basketball reflects our shared commitment to advancing health and well-being in the UAE. Sports provide a platform to reach hundreds of thousands of individuals, promoting healthy lifestyles and rallying support for meaningful causes. We take immense pride in the support we receive from sporting legends, and it is truly inspiring to see athletes use their influence to bring about positive change in people’s lives.”

The announcement follows a growing number of alliances between Al Jalila Foundation and leading sports organisations across the country, reinforcing the goals of the UAE National Sports Strategy 2031 to promote health and well-being through active participation and community engagement.

Dubai Basketball remains committed to offering a platform for young athletes to prosper in the United Arab Emirates and this partnership is a significant step in using its stage to inspire hope, drive change, and support the country’s vision for a more inclusive future.

Al Jalila Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Dubai Health, announced a generous AED10 million donation from Commercial Bank of Dubai (CBD) to support the construction and development of Dubai Health’s Hamdan Bin Rashid Cancer Hospital, Dubai’s first fully integrated and comprehensive cancer care facility.

This partnership reflects a shared commitment to advancing human health and underscores the importance of strategic collaboration between national institutions to enhance access to world-class medical services, particularly in the field of oncology.

The donation agreement was signed during an official visit to the Foundation by H.E. Ahmad Abdulkarim Julfar, Chairman of Commercial Bank of Dubai, and Dr. Amer Al Zarooni, CEO of Al Jalila Foundation. His Excellency and the accompanying delegation were briefed on the Foundation’s core programs and future initiatives.

The signing ceremony was attended by Dr. Amer Sharif, CEO of Dubai Healthcare City, and Dr. Abdullah Al Khayat, CEO Emeritus of Al Jalila Children’s Hospital.

H.E. Ahmad Abdulkarim Julfar said: “Our support for the Hamdan Bin Rashid Cancer Hospital  reflects our deep-rooted commitment to serving the community and supporting individuals in need of advanced medical care. This partnership is aligned with the UAE’s longstanding approach to fostering philanthropy in the healthcare sector and upholding the values of compassion and community solidarity.”

Dr. Amer Al Zarooni, CEO of Al Jalila Foundation, expressed his gratitude: “We thank Commercial Bank of Dubai for its generous contribution to a project that marks a major step forward in Dubai’s healthcare landscape. This partnership reflects the power of collaboration in supporting national efforts to enhance cancer care and improve patients’ lives.”

The 59,000 square metres Hamdan Bin Rashid Cancer Hospital is being developed with the aid of donations received through Al Jalila Foundation, which leads Dubai Health’s giving mission.

Set to become a world-class medical institution, the hospital will be equipped with the latest diagnostic and therapeutic technologies and staffed by a highly qualified team of specialist doctors and trained nurses. It will also play a pioneering role in cancer research and education, focusing on developing innovative treatments and investing in the training of future medical and nursing professionals.

Spanning G+8 floors, the Hamdan Bin Rashid Cancer Hospital designed with input from cancer survivors to ensure a truly patient-centered environment.  The hospital was awarded Gold in the Future Healthcare Projects category by World Architecture News. Once operational, it will provide advanced, integrated cancer care to the patients.

Al Jalila Foundation continues to forge strategic partnerships with corporations, institutions, and philanthropists to ensure that advanced medical care remains accessible to those in need, while contributing to the nation’s vision of a healthier society, aligned with the goals of the Dubai Social Agenda 33.

Dubai Health has announced the inauguration of Majlis Al Saada and High Dependency Unit at its Thalassemia Center, with support from DP World. This initiative aligns with Dubai Health’s ongoing efforts to elevate the standard of care and coincides with World Thalassemia Day, observed annually on 8 May.

The inauguration was attended by Dr. Amer Sharif, CEO of Dubai Health; Dr. Amer Al Zarooni, CEO of Al Jalila Foundation; Dr. Abdulla Al Khayat, CEO of Al Jalila Children’s Hospital, Ayoub Al Mulla COO of We One by DP World GCC, and Nabil Qayed, Executive Vice president – Corporate Support, Marwan AlJassmi, Senior Vice president, Alia Al Janahi, VP of HSE, Jill Lambert, Vice President Communications from DP World GCC along with several senior officials from both sides.

Majlis Al Saada and High Dependency Unit at the Thalassemia Center were renovated with the support of DP World through Al Jalila Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Dubai Health.

Established 30 years ago, the center provides medical treatment to approximately 8,872 patients every year, including citizens and residents across various age groups. Over the past decade, 160 patients have undergone bone marrow transplants, reinforcing the center’s position as a leader in thalassemia care.

Abdulla bin Damithan, CEO and Managing Director, DP World GCC, said: ““This partnership with Dubai Health to renovate the Thalassemia Centre’s Happiness Majlis and Special Care Unit demonstrates a commitment to enhancing the therapeutic experience for patients. Collaborating on projects that raise the quality of healthcare is integral to DP World’s social responsibility efforts and our contribution to the advancement of the medical sector.”

Dr. Amer Sharif, CEO of Dubai Health, said: “Collaborations are fundamental pillars to achieving transformation in the healthcare sector. Our cooperation with DP World reflects a shared vision focused on people and improving quality of life.  We remain deeply committed to expanding these collaborations, ensuring they translate into meaningful initiatives that elevate the patient journey, in line with our ‘Patient First’ promise.’’

Dr. Amer Al Zarooni, CEO of Al Jalila Foundation, said: “We extend our sincere appreciation to DP World for their generous support in renewing Majlis Al Saada and the High Dependency Unit at the Thalassemia Center.

We believe that delivering holistic care, addressing psychological and medical needs of patients, is a fundamental pillar of healthcare services. We are proud of the lasting impact the Thalassemia Center has made in serving thousands of patients over the past decades.”

The renovations at the Thalassemia Center included Majlis Al Saada and the High Dependency Unit. The Majlis now features a dedicated recreational area, a lecture hall, and a relaxation lounge.

The High Dependency Unit was redesigned to better serve patients requiring close medical monitoring and is now equipped with advanced technology in line with the highest international standards.

Awareness programs

The Thalassemia Center runs an annual awareness campaign program, including educational lectures held both within and outside the center. It also provides training to school nurses on how to support students with chronic genetic disorders, in collaboration with the Ministry of Education.

The program also includes social campaigns to support medical cases, along with educational and treatment assistance. It also organizes recreational events and initiatives throughout the year to raise funds for providing medical equipment and devices to patients.

Dubai Health announced the signing of a strategic cooperation agreement with the Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Humanitarian & Charity Establishment, through Al Jalila Foundation, its philanthropic arm, aimed at enhancing collaboration in support of the “Nabadat” Campaign, which provides comprehensive medical care to individuals suffering from congenital heart defects and chronic heart conditions.

The agreement was signed on the sidelines of the 21st Edition of the Dubai International Humanitarian Aid and Development Conference and Exhibition (DIHAD 2025), held at the Dubai World Trade Centre from 29 April to 1 May. The collaboration is part of ongoing efforts to improve patients’ lives by offering healthcare services aligned with the highest global standards.

The cooperation agreement was signed by Dr. Amer Al Zarooni, Chief Executive Officer of Al Jalila Foundation, and Saleh Zaher Al Mazrouei, Director General of the Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Humanitarian & Charity Establishment.

Dr. Amer Al Zarooni said: “We are proud of our ongoing strategic partnership with the Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Humanitarian & Charity Establishment. This collaboration reflects our shared commitment to advancing philanthropic efforts and expanding healthcare support to those in need.”

He added: “Through the ‘Nabadat’ Campaign, we continue our mission to bring hope and healing to patients with congenital heart defects and chronic heart conditions, by supporting programs that provide access to advanced medical care, further reinforcing Dubai’s position as a global hub for charitable and sustainable healthcare.”

Saleh Zaher Al Mazrouei said: “Inspired by the vision of our leadership, we are committed to ensuring that patients in need receive comprehensive medical care. The ‘Nabadat’ campaign reflects the deeply rooted values of generosity in our nation. It has helped save the lives of many children and adults suffering from congenital heart defects, giving them a chance at a better life and future.

We are proud to sign this cooperation agreement with Al Jalila Foundation to support the ‘’Nabadat” campaign, which exemplifies the medical profession’s highest ideals – saving lives regardless of a patient’s financial means. By providing best in class surgical interventions, ‘’Nabadat’’ not only transforms lives but also reinforces the values of compassion and solidarity in our society.”

The “Nabadat” Campaign is one of Al Jalila Foundation’s leading community and humanitarian programs, offering life-saving cardiac catheterization procedures and surgeries for children and adults in need. These are conducted at Dubai Hospital and Al Jalila Children’s Hospital, along with comprehensive medical care and follow-up services.

Emirates Red Crescent and Al Jalila Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Dubai Health, have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to strengthen their collaboration in healthcare, medical education and research.

The agreement establishes a framework for joint humanitarian initiatives that align with the UAE government’s strategy to enhance corporate social responsibility and foster sustainable, long-term charitable endeavors across the nation.

The MoU was signed by His Excellency Ahmed Sari Al Mazrouei, Secretary General of Emirates Red Crescent, and Dr. Amer Al Zarooni, Chief Executive Officer of Al Jalila Foundation, during a ceremony at the Dubai International Humanitarian Aid and Development Conference (DIHAD 2025).

Under the terms of the agreement, both organizations will collaborate on several key initiatives, including:

• Joint support for the Hamdan Bin Rashid Cancer Hospital project
• Collaboration on Al Jalila Foundation’s A’awen initiative, which provides financial assistance to UAE-based patients in need, as well as The Child Fund, which supports specialized medical  care for children
• Implementation of awareness campaigns and psychological support services

Additionally, Al Jalila Foundation will facilitate access to healthcare services and treatments at Dubai Health’s medical facilities for patients referred by Emirates Red Crescent.

His Excellency Ahmed Sari Al Mazrouei, Emirates Red Crescent Secretary General, said: “This partnership represents our commitment to building effective, productive relationships with healthcare institutions across the UAE. By joining forces with the Al Jalila Foundation, we can significantly enhance our medical programs and deliver expanded support to our beneficiaries.

Furthermore, the collaboration establishes a framework for deeper coordination between our organizations in service of those who need it most. It embodies the core values of cooperation, community solidarity and shared humanitarian purpose that define our national identity.”

He added: “We are confident this strategic alliance will elevate our joint initiatives, driving tangible progress and more compassionate care for vulnerable communities.”

Dr. Amer Al Zarooni, Al Jalila Foundation Chief Executive Officer, said: “This strategic partnership with Emirates Red Crescent embodies our shared vision to elevate healthcare quality and advance medical research and education across the UAE.

Through this collaboration, we aim to expand the impact of our charitable and research-driven initiatives by facilitating access to care and support for those in need. We believe that partnering with prominent institutions like Emirates Red Crescent strengthens our ability to fulfill our humanitarian mission.”

The partnership aligns with both organizations’ commitment to promoting cooperation between government entities working in humanitarian development, fostering national loyalty and belonging, and raising social, healthcare and volunteer awareness throughout the UAE.