His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman of the Dubai Health Board of Directors, honoured the donors of the Hamdan Bin Rashid Cancer Hospital in recognition of their generosity, which is driving the construction of Dubai’s first fully integrated comprehensive cancer care facility.

The ceremony, organised by Al Jalila Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Dubai Health, took place at the construction site of the hospital in Dubai Healthcare City Phase 2. It was attended by Her Excellency Dr. Raja Easa Al Gurg, member of the Dubai Health Board of Directors, Chairperson of Al Jalila Foundation Board of Directors and Chair of the Hamdan Bin Rashid Cancer Hospital Steering Committee; Dr. Amer Sharif, CEO of Dubai Health, and Dr. Amer Al Zarooni, CEO of Al Jalila Foundation.

55 donors, representing individuals, charitable organisations and public and private entities were recognised at the ceremony.

Commitment to philanthropy
His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum affirmed that giving is deeply rooted in the UAE’s longstanding humanitarian legacy and remains a driving force behind both development and charitable work.

He said: “Guided by the vision of our leadership, the UAE continues to uphold these core values. The establishment of the Hamdan Bin Rashid Cancer Hospital reflects the principles laid down by our founding fathers, placing giving at the heart of our national responsibility.”

His Highness commended the donors’ contributions, highlighting their key role in supporting the development of this landmark facility. He emphasised the importance of sustaining this noble work, which embodies social responsibility and human solidarity, while strengthening community partnerships that advance healthcare and place people at the heart of its priorities.

Leadership perspectives
Her Excellency Dr. Raja Easa Al Gurg highlighted the significance of the hospital, saying: “This hospital embodies the vision of our leadership, which recognises human health as the nation’s true wealth. By establishing a fully integrated facility, we provide hope to patients and their families and create an advanced centre for specialised cancer care.”

She added: “We are deeply grateful to all our partners and supporters, both individuals and institutions, for their invaluable contributions, trust in our mission, and belief in advancing human health and improving quality of life.”

Dr. Amer Sharif reaffirmed that the hospital is a significant addition to Dubai’s healthcare system, providing a model that integrates medical treatment with supportive care to deliver a holistic patient experience.

He said: “The hospital will serve as both a centre for treatment and a beacon of hope for patients, offering advanced medical capabilities that meet the highest international standards. It will also act as a learning and research hub, strengthening our healthcare system by contributing to the discovery of new treatments and the development of forward-thinking approaches that improve patient outcomes and quality of life.”

Strategic partnerships
Dr. Amer Al Zarooni highlighted that Al Jalila Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Dubai Health, is responsible for raising funds to support the construction and development of the hospital through strategic partnerships with donors.

He noted that these efforts reflect the Foundation’s ongoing commitment to philanthropy, humanitarian work, and the advancement of healthcare in the UAE.

Fully integrated hospital
Located in Dubai Healthcare City Phase 2, the 59,000-square-metre Hamdan Bin Rashid Cancer Hospital pays tribute to the late Sheikh Hamdan bin Rashid Al Maktoum and his lifetime legacy of philanthropy. It will feature 53 clinics, 21 clinical research areas, 60 infusion rooms, 10 urgent care rooms, 5 radiotherapy rooms and 116 inpatient beds.

Designed with well-being in mind, the hospital will also include 19 tranquil gardens and will serve as a centre of excellence for cancer treatment and research in the region.

Dubai Health has announced the successful completion of 15 heart surgeries for patients of different ages and nationalities under the second edition of “Nabadat” campaign 2025. Led by Al Jalila Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Dubai Health, and carried out in partnership with the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Charity Establishment, the initiative provides comprehensive care for patients with congenital and chronic heart conditions at Dubai Health hospitals.

The announcement coincides with World Heart Day, observed annually on September 29, underscoring Dubai Health’s dedication to global efforts to raise awareness of heart disease and deliver impactful healthcare programs that transform lives.

Dr. Amer Al Zarooni, CEO of Al Jalila Foundation, said: “Our partnership with the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Charity Establishment through the Nabadat initiative reflects a shared vision to advance health for humanity. Thanks to the dedication of our teams, we are able to impact lives and offer hope for the future.”

He added: “Nabadat also exemplifies Dubai Health’s commitment to fostering the values of social solidarity and enhancing quality of life through impactful humanitarian programmes. The successful completion of this number of complex surgeries demonstrates the initiative’s expanding scope and its growing impact in enabling patients to access advanced treatment in line with the highest medical standards.”

Saleh Zaher Al Mazrouei, Director General of the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Charity Establishment, said: “We are proud to have launched and lead the Nabadat campaign, which embodies the deeply rooted values of solidarity within our society, in collaboration with Al Jalila Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Dubai Health. This support stems from our commitment to harnessing our resources to provide healthcare for patients in need, driven by our belief that caring for people reflects the very essence of our humanitarian mission.”

He added: “Nabadat is one of the Establishment’s leading humanitarian initiatives, that helps save the lives of children and adults with congenital heart defects, offering them a healthier and more hopeful future. It also underscores the power of community partnerships in uniting efforts to create a lasting impact in healthcare.”

Dr. Obaid Mohammed Al Jassim, Consultant and Head of Cardiothoracic Surgery at Dubai Hospital and Medical Director of the Nabadat initiative, said: “All 15 surgeries were successfully completed despite their complexity, with the medical team managing challenging cases that included open-heart surgeries and catheter interventions, demonstrating the readiness and high competence of the healthcare professionals.

He further explained that Nabadat has proven successful in achieving its goals, helping to restore hope to many adults and children suffering from heart conditions. He emphasised that the continuation of these efforts reflects the initiative’s commitment to its humanitarian mission of providing patients with healthier futures.

His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman of the Dubai Health Board of Directors, officially inaugurated Dubai Health’s Center for Innovation and Technology.

The center combines clinical expertise, research, and innovative technologies to shape the future of healthcare, and advance health for humanity.

The inauguration was held as part of the Dubai Health Board of Directors meeting, chaired by His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, and attended by Board members including Her Excellency Dr. Raja Easa Al Gurg, His Excellency Abdulla Abdul Rahman Al Shaibani, Professor Sir Ian Andrew Greer, His Excellency Walid Saeed Al Awadhi, His Excellency Mohammed Hassan Al Shehhi, and Dr. Amer Sharif, CEO of Dubai Health.

His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed conveyed his sincere appreciation to His Excellency Professor Alawi Alsheikh-Ali, Director General of the Dubai Health Authority, for his valuable contributions to Dubai Health and for his instrumental role in laying the foundation for Dubai’s first academic health system. His Highness wished him continued success in his new responsibilities.

During the meeting, Board members reviewed key achievements and were briefed on the progress of projects aimed at enhancing patient care and elevating the quality of healthcare.

His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed welcomed the Board members, commending their efforts to advance healthcare in alignment with Dubai’s Social Agenda 33.

His Highness stated: “We are progressing steadily toward a future where innovation and advanced technology are at the core of healthcare delivery. The Center for Innovation and Technology at Dubai Health serves as a strategic platform that brings together expertise, talent, and forward-thinking ideas to develop solutions that make a real difference in people’s health. I extend my appreciation to Dr. Raja Easa Al Gurg and Dr. Amina Al Rostamani for their generous contributions to the establishment of this pioneering center.”

Deserving recognition

His Highness honoured Dr. Raja Easa Al Gurg, Chairperson of the Easa Saleh Al Gurg Charity Foundation, and Dr. Amina Al Rostamani, Board member at the AW Rostamani Group, in recognition of their support in establishing Dubai Health’s Center for Innovation and Technology. His Highness expressed his sincere appreciation for their valuable community efforts in advancing care, medical education, and research.

The Dubai Health Board of Directors also expressed their gratitude to Her Excellency Dr. Raja Easa Al Gurg and Her Excellency Dr. Amina Al Rostamani for their generous contributions to the Center for Innovation and Technology and commended their well-deserved recognition for their pivotal role in advancing community philanthropy.

Her Excellency Dr. Raja Easa Al Gurg thanked His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed for the honour, noting that supporting such initiatives builds on the values instilled by her late father, whose contributions left a lasting mark on community service and the spirit of giving. She emphasised that the establishment of the center will foster innovation and continuous development in the healthcare system by enabling research teams to advance and adopt emerging technologies.

Her Excellency Dr. Amina Al Rostamani expressed her pride in being honoured by His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed. She said: “I am privileged to have contributed to the establishment of the Center for Innovation and Technology at Dubai Health, which aims to accelerate the adoption of smart solutions in healthcare and strengthen Dubai’s position in medical sciences through strategic partnerships. Social responsibility is deeply rooted in our community and remains an essential driver of the sustainable development led by our wise leadership.”

His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed toured the Center for Innovation and Technology in the company of Her Excellency Dr. Raja Easa Al Gurg and Her Excellency Dr. Amina Al Rostamani, the center’s primary benefactors, as well as members of the Dubai Health Board of Directors. They were joined by Peter Hall, President of IMEA at Informa Markets, and Hal Wolf, President and CEO of HIMSS. During the visit, His Highness was briefed on the latest innovative projects designed to enhance the quality of care.

Strategic partnerships

The Center for Innovation and Technology was established through the generous contributions of the Easa Saleh Al Gurg Charity Foundation and the AW Rostamani Group, which made a joint donation of AED10 million through Al Jalila Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Dubai Health.

The center’s launch coincides with the first edition of WHX Tech 2025, the Global Health Technology Exhibition, taking place from 8–10 September 2025 at the Dubai World Trade Centre. During the event, Dubai Health will announce a series of new collaborations with leading academic, technology, and government partners to advance projects at the center. These partnerships include Dubai Future Foundation, Prototypes for Humanity, Dubai Institute of Design and Innovation, Siemens Healthineers, Schneider Electric, and Huawei.

The Center for Innovation and Technology is committed to transforming bold ideas into real-world solutions that enhance patient care, drive medical advancements, and improve lives, in line with Dubai Health’s ‘Patient First’ promise. It also serves as an educational and research platform, enabling clinicians, scientists, learners, and innovators to pioneer breakthroughs that shape the future of healthcare.

Dr. Yacine Hadjiat, Director of The Center for Innovation and Technology at Dubai Health, said: “The Center for Innovation and Technology brings together talent from across disciplines, and provides the environment and resources needed to reimagine healthcare delivery. It is designed not only to advance technology but also to inspire bold thinking, foster collaboration, and accelerate discoveries that ultimately serve patients and improve lives.”

Designed in line with the world’s leading health innovation hubs, the center houses advanced laboratories and technologies for developing, testing and validating solutions. This includes the Extended Reality and Brain Interface Lab (XR BCI), the Robotics and Sensors Lab, Artificial Intelligence and Data Lab, Design Lab, a User Experience Room, and spaces for collaboration.

To support the transition from discovery to application, the center also offers comprehensive services through its Technology Transfer Office (TTO), enabling innovators to protect intellectual property and build partnerships.

Al Jalila Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Dubai Health, announced that it has contributed to saving the lives of 60 patients by supporting organ transplant surgeries as part of the first and second editions of the Your Donation Saves Lives campaign.

The announcement coincides with World Organ Donation Day, observed annually on 13 August, and reflects the Foundation’s long-term commitment to supporting patients with organ failure and fostering a culture of organ donation as a humanitarian value.

Since its launch in April 2021, the campaign has supported 60 transplant procedures, including 53 kidney transplants and 7 liver transplants. Among these are 24 children with kidney failure and 5 children with liver failure. As part of this program, the Foundation continues to support more than 65 patients with life-saving transplants, who are unable to access or afford specialized care.

These efforts are aligned with the goals of HAYAT, the National Program for Organ and Tissue Donation and Transplantation and are carried out in partnership with Dubai Health’s integrated academic health system.

From Campaign to Permanent Program

Dr. Amer Al Zarooni, CEO of Al Jalila Foundation, announced that the Your Donation Saves Lives campaign has now evolved into a permanent initiative under the Foundation’s A’awen program, which provides financial assistance to patients in need of critical medical treatment across the UAE, a step that aligns with Dubai Health’s commitment, “Patient First”.

“On World Organ Donation Day, we reaffirm our commitment to supporting patients with organ failure and extend our heartfelt thanks to the generous donors, individuals and institutions alike, who contributed to both the first and second editions of the Your Donation Saves Lives campaign. Their support represents a powerful model of human solidarity, with the first edition alone helping to fund nearly 30% of all organ transplants performed in Dubai,” said Dr. Al Zarooni.

He also extended his appreciation to living organ donors and to the families of deceased donors, saying: “Your compassion has given others a second chance at life. We thank you for your extraordinary generosity.”

Ensuring Safe, Successful Transplants

Dr. Ashraf Al Hinnawi, Consultant Transplant Surgeon at Dubai Health, explained that the medical team works collaboratively to thoroughly evaluate both the donor and the recipient before transplantation, ensuring the highest possible long-term success rates.

“We conduct comprehensive assessments of kidney function and immune compatibility between the donor and recipient, along with detailed medical and surgical evaluations that include lab tests and imaging studies to ensure the success of the transplant. We also follow up with patients regularly after the procedure to ensure adherence to the treatment plan and to closely monitor kidney function.”

Regarding living donors, Dr. Al Hinnawi noted that they undergo meticulous evaluations, including assessment of the kidneys, functional testing, and screening for any infectious or cancerous conditions, in addition to psychological and social assessments.

He added that all cases are reviewed by a multidisciplinary medical committee to determine donor eligibility, ensuring the highest levels of safety for both donor and recipient.

A Lifeline for Patients in Need

Al Jalila Foundation continues to welcome donations through A’awen, offering individuals and organizations the opportunity to fund life-changing programs that enhance well-being and provide essential medical care.

The first edition of the campaign was launched in April 2021 in collaboration with Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences, the Islamic Affairs and Charitable Activities Department, and Emarat Al Youm newspaper. The second edition took place in September 2024 and concluded in December of the same year, as part of a collaboration between the Islamic Affairs and Charitable Activities Department, Al Jalila Foundation, and Emarat Al Youm newspaper.

Transplant surgeries were conducted in partnership with Dubai Health’s Dubai Hospital and Al Jalila Children’s Hospital, alongside Mediclinic City Hospital and King’s College Hospital London in Dubai.

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.

The Awqaf and Minors Affairs Foundation (Awqaf Dubai) has announced the donation of AED 1.8 million to Al Jalila Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Dubai Health, to provide treatment and kidney transplants for patients with kidney failure from humanitarian cases, and to cover treatment costs for eligible individuals.

Under the agreement, AED 1 million will be dedicated to kidney treatment and transplant procedures, while AED 800,000 will support Al Jalila Foundation’s “A’awen” program,  which provides medical assistance to UAE-based patients in need, and “The Child Fund,” which provides life-changing medical care for children in need while alleviating financial pressure on their families.

The funding, provided through Awqaf Dubai’s Zakat Fund, reflects a shared commitment to transforming lives by supporting patients in need who are unable to access or afford essential medical care..

H.E. Khaled Al Thani, Deputy Secretary General of Awqaf Dubai, affirmed the organization’s commitment to supporting the healthcare sector and advancing its humanitarian goals in medical care by assisting patients with limited income, particularly those registered as humanitarian cases with healthcare institutions. He emphasized the importance of participating in initiatives that aim to treat vulnerable patients, especially children and individuals suffering from life-threatening chronic conditions that negatively impact family stability.

Al Thani noted that the support was provided through the Zakat Fund, highlighting that patients fall within the eligible categories for zakat, and represent a humanitarian segment that the organization is dedicated to assisting. He added that this contribution helps provide essential medical needs and delivers a profound positive impact on the lives of patients and their families.

He also stressed that Awqaf Dubai spares no effort in forging partnerships that strengthen the role of endowments in meeting community needs, supporting individuals across vital sectors, and advancing its strategy to empower the endowment sector while fostering social solidarity and compassion throughout society.

Dr. Amer Al Zarooni, Chief Executive Officer of Al Jalila Foundation, expressed his pride in the ongoing partnership with Awqaf Dubai, whose generous support continues to provide vital treatment and kidney transplants for patients with kidney failure from humanitarian cases, and covers the cost of care for eligible patients through the ‘A’awen’ program and ‘The Child Fund’. This collaboration highlights the collective efforts of national institutions working together to enhance the healthcare ecosystem in the UAE.

Dr. Al Zarooni emphasized that such efforts empower Al Jalila Foundation to fulfill its noble mission through its various programs and initiatives aimed at transforming lives and advancing health for all.

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