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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Key areas of collaboration include:

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

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

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

In a strategic partnership with Emirates Motorsports Organization (EMSO), Al Jalila Foundation, the giving arm of Dubai Health, has been designated as its official charity partner for the 2025 racing season. This collaboration underscores EMSO’s commitment to community development and supporting patient care by leveraging the transformative power of sports philanthropy.

The partnership aligns with the UAE National Sports Strategy 2031 launched by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, which aims to enhance community well-being through sports.

Throughout the upcoming season, EMSO will dedicate fundraising efforts and awareness campaigns to champion Al Jalila Foundation’s mission to transform lives through medical innovation. Fans, athletes, and sponsors will have the opportunity to contribute to healthcare initiatives aligned with Dubai Health’s ‘Patient First’ promise.

The Dubai International Baja is a premier off-road motorsport event held annually in the UAE. The hallmark of EMSO’s racing calendar celebrates 45 years since its inception as the Dubai International Rally in 1979. Now, in its eighth edition under the Baja format, it draws top competitors from around the world.

For the first time, Al Jalila Foundation joined as the official charity partner. The newly forged partnership will fuel a series of awareness and fundraising initiatives throughout the 2025 racing season.

Dr. Amer Al Zarooni, CEO of Al Jalila Foundation, expressed his gratitude: “We are honored to be EMSO’s charity partner of choice. EMSO is a leader in motorsports that shares our commitment to community impact. This partnership will showcase our patient care programs to the global motorsports community and bring vital support to life-transforming programs. Together, we aim to drive positive change and advance healthcare innovation.”’

Mahir Badri, CEO of Emirates Motorsports Organization, emphasized the significance of the partnership: “Motorsports unite people through connection and inspiration. By joining forces with Al Jalila Foundation, we can channel this energy to support transformative healthcare programs. This partnership embodies our shared belief in the power of sport to drive meaningful change and social impact.”

Following the signing ceremony at Al Jalila Foundation, EMSO CEO Mahir Badri, joined by international participants from the 2024 edition of the Dubai International Baja, visited Al Jalila Children’s Hospital to meet young patients, spread joy and inspiration while learning about the hospital’s pioneering approach to pediatric care. Emirati rider and world champion Mohammed Al Balooshi was among the racers who visited children and their families.

Dubai Health’s vision is to advance health for humanity through the integration of care, learning, discovery and giving. Al Jalila Foundation advances the Giving mission to impact lives and shape the future of health through philanthropy.

Al Jalila Foundation – the healthcare philanthropic organization leading Dubai Health’s giving mission is transforming support for people of determination through its Ta’alouf program. Established over 11 years ago, the Ta’alouf program is the foundation’s flagship education program that works with parents, educators, other caregivers, and the wider community to empower people of determination (POD) and support their inclusion in education and society through training workshops and activities. The program is generally delivered in Arabic and English and offered free of charge.

Launched in 2013, the Ta’alouf Parents Training Program has equipped parents and caretakers with the knowledge and skills to effectively respond to the POD’s needs. To date, the program has had 22 cohorts, with 1098 parents and caregivers graduating from the program, representing 36 nationalities residing in all seven Emirates. These parents care for children facing diverse challenges, including Down syndrome, Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), mental delay, and others.

Ta’alouf’s second program is the Teachers Training Program, in which primary teachers and principals from public and private schools in the UAE are equipped with the necessary knowledge and skills to better understand each student’s individual learning needs and further broaden their understanding of inclusive education best practices. Launched in 2014, the program runs for one academic year, is fully sponsored by Al Jalila Foundation, and is delivered by Zayed University, one of the leading universities in the region. The course is also endorsed by the Ministry of Education (MoE) and the Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA).

The curriculum has developed further over time, creating a significant impact on the lives of educators, parents, and above all – children of determination. To date, 680 teachers representing 46 nationalities from 70 public schools and 60 private schools have successfully graduated from the Teachers Training program.

Commenting on the program’s success, Dr. Amer Al Zarooni, CEO of Al Jalila Foundation said “The Ta’alouf program is rooted in the principles of inclusion, acceptance and an unwavering commitment to the well-being of people of determination. By empowering educators, parents and caregivers, we aim to inspire positive action, cultivate a culture of hope and improve their quality of life. We are also glad to see the program’s results providing a stable foundation for an inclusive society in the UAE.”

Fr. Suresh Kumar, Principal of St. Mary’s Catholic High School, Fujairah, has noticed a marked improvement in the school after sending teachers to the one-year program. He commented, “Through the Al Jalila Foundation’s Ta’alouf Teachers Training program, the teachers at St. Mary’s Catholic High School, Fujairah, have been able to adapt their approach to special education within their classrooms. The teachers have been able to assist in early identification and subsequently suggest and implement strategies to support these children to reach their highest potential. As a result, the school continually progresses towards the goal of being an inclusive learning environment. We are excited to continue our partnership with Al Jalila Foundation and increase our capacity for inclusion.”

‘Ta’alouf’ meaning ‘harmony’ in Arabic, encapsulates the spirit of togetherness with strategic partners, parents, educators, and the wider community to empower people of determination. The program’s success throughout the years has inspired the Al Jalila Foundation to examine further ways of enhancing and developing the potential of people of determination. Consequently, the Ta’alouf Talent Scout program was established in 2022 to empower people of determination with intellectual disabilities (such as Down syndrome, Autism and others) by nurturing their talents and strengths, and inspiring them to pursue meaningful life opportunities in education and society.

To date, 124 People of Determination have participated in different Ta’alouf events and initiatives. Additionally, to date, 512 initiatives have been implemented in private and government schools across the UAE to promote and support the inclusion of students of determination.

Al Jalila Foundation, the global healthcare philanthropic organization leading Dubai Health’s giving mission, recently celebrated a decade of supporting breast cancer patients through the 10th edition of #PINKtober,  its community fundraising campaign held every October for Breast Cancer Awareness Month. The campaign aims to increase awareness of the disease and raise funds for research into its cause, prevention, diagnosis, treatment and cure. In 2024, the campaign raised over AED 2 million.

According to research, breast cancer is the most common cancer among women worldwide, affecting 1 in 8 women over their lifetime. Studies also indicate that, in the UAE, the average age of diagnoses is 10 years younger than in other parts of the world. These figures highlight the importance for ongoing research and awareness efforts to stay abreast of medical advancements in order to save lives.

By joining hands with hundreds of organizations and members of the community within the UAE, the #PINKtober campaign has helped raised over AED 15 million to support patient treatment and advance breast cancer research over the last decade. Consequently, this has assisted Al Jalila Foundation’s A’awen patient treatment program to ease patient lives by delivering medical assistance to those in need and focus on their recovery and well-being. Since 2013, 423 breast cancer patients have been supported by the A’awen patient treatment program.

Commenting on the 10-year edition, Dr. Amer Al Zarooni, CEO of Al Jalila Foundation said “We are immensely grateful to the people, the organizations and the community who in their great generosity have supported our #PINKtober campaign over the last decade through their donations, in-kind contributions, fundraising activities, and acts of kindness. The impact of this campaign in transforming the lives of those in need is a testament to the power of togetherness and our community collaborations.”

Over the last 10 years, Al Jalila Foundation has partnered with a wide array of schools, fitness centers, hotels, restaurants, financial institutions, and malls, who they have termed ‘Champions of Hope’ to help raise funds and spread hope to breast cancer patients and their families.

“Together, with our community partners, we are paving the way for a brighter future for those affected by breast cancer in our mission to transform the lives of our mothers, sisters, wives and friends,” added Dr. Amer Al Zarooni, CEO of Al Jalila Foundation.

In 2021 Al Jalila Foundation established ‘Majlis Al Amal’ – a unique ‘cancer drop-in centre’ and the first of its kind community centre in the UAE dedicated to improving the well-being of women affected by cancer. Literally translating to ‘Hope Lounge’ in English, Majlis Al Amal offers cancer patients and survivors emotional, physical and social support in a safe, nurturing and supportive environment. Members can visit at any time for information, a chat over tea or coffee, use the in-house library, take part in classes, or attend educational sessions presented by specialist volunteers – all offered free of charge.

On the occasion of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Al Jalila Foundation hosted a heartwarming panel discussion featuring an inspiring line-up of speakers who shared stories of resilience and transformation. Lead by Hanadi El Imam, the panel included Dr. Amna AlMehairi, Consultant Hematologist at Dubai Health, Majlis Al Amal  members Faiza Saeed, Leda Fagundes and Dina Shoukry. Together, they highlighted the ‘healing power of community support’ and how it became a beacon of hope throughout their cancer journey.

In celebration of World Heart Day, observed annually on September 29, Dubai Health has announced the launch of the 2024 edition of the ‘Nabadat’ campaign. This long-standing campaign is dedicated to providing life-saving heart treatments for patients with congenital heart defects, reflecting Dubai Health’s commitment to putting patients first in all its endeavors.  

Now under Dubai Health, the campaign has expanded to include adults, reaffirming its commitment to providing accessible, high-quality healthcare for all. Driven by the Al Jalila Foundation, which leads Dubai Health’s giving mission, and in partnership with The Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Humanitarian and Charity Establishment, the 2024This year, the campaign aims to provide life-saving treatment for 50 patients in need of cardiac care. Specialized medical teams in Dubai Health Hospitals will perform critical cardiac surgeries and catheterizations for children and adults who cannot afford treatment for congenital heart defects.  By delivering comprehensive care, including surgeries and post-surgical support, Nabadat continues to transform lives and bring hope to families in need.  

Since the campaign’s inception, Nabadat has delivered over 2,500 free surgeries, 6,000 medical screenings, and compassionate care across 45 treatment campaigns in nine countries with the support of over 300 healthcare professionals.  

Salih Zahir Al Mazrouei, Director General of the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Humanitarian and Charity Establishment, said, “This campaign is a practical embodiment of our wise leadership’s directives in providing essential treatment for children suffering from congenital heart defects worldwide. Nabadat was launched in Dubai as a charitable and compassionate campaign to treat children’s hearts, both domestically and internationally. We aspire to treat the maximum number of children and adults across various regions globally to fulfil this ambitious humanitarian vision.” 

Al Mazrouei emphasized that the foundation covers all costs associated with the operations conducted during campaigns held within and outside the country, providing the necessary logistical support to cover treatments for as many children as possible. He explained that since its inception, the Nabadat campaign has expanded and carried out 45 campaigns in nine countries. The campaign has performed free surgeries for children both within the UAE and abroad, focussing on the areas with the greatest need. 

Dr. Amer Al Zarooni, Chief Executive Officer of the Al Jalila Foundation, said, “We deeply appreciate the ongoing support of the Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Humanitarian and Charity Establishment for their continuous support of this campaign, whose long-standing partnership over the years reinforces the values of patient care and community service. At Al Jalila Foundation, we take great pride in leading Dubai Health’s giving mission which is centered around transforming lives. This year’s Nabadat campaign, launched under Dubai Health for the first time, stands out as it has expanded to include both adults and children in need, ensuring that no one is left behind in receiving essential cardiac care. It reflects our broader commitment to making healthcare accessible to all, reinforcing our ‘Patient First’ promise.” 

Speaking on World Heart Day, Salem bin Lahij, Director of Patient Care Programs at Dubai Health, said, “The Nabadat campaign represents hope and opportunity for families in need. Under Dubai Health, critical cardiac surgeries and catheterizations have been performed at Dubai Hospital and Al Jalila Children’s Hospital, delivering comprehensive, compassionate care that transforms lives and creates brighter futures. Each year, we strive to expand our reach, and by extending the campaign this year, we have underwent surgeries to 25 more children and adults, aiming to treat a total of 50 patients by the end of the year. We are proud of what this campaign has achieved so far, and we will continue our commitment to utilizing all resources within our healthcare system to provide the highest levels of care.”