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.” 

Al Jalila Foundation, Emarat Al Youm newspaper, and the Islamic Affairs and Charitable Activities (IACAD) Department in Dubai, have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to launch Your Donation Saves Lives, the second edition of an initiative to support patients in need of kidney transplantation in Dubai. The fundraising campaign urges businesses, entrepreneurs, and community members to embrace the initiative and offer essential support to those in need. 

The MoU was signed by Executive Director of the Charitable Sector, Mohamed Musabih of the Islamic Affairs and Charitable Activities Department in Dubai; Dr. Amer Al Zarooni, Chief Executive Officer of  Al Jalila Foundation; and Saud Al Darbi, Head of the News and Publishing Centre at Dubai Media Incorporated (DMI). The signing took place in the presence of Dr. Amer Sharif, Chief Executive Officer of Dubai Health.  

Al Jalila Foundation, which leads Dubai Health’s giving mission, will be responsible for identifying patients within Dubai Health’s healthcare facilities, including Dubai Hospital, Al Jalila Children’s Hospital, and Mediclinic City Hospital. Al Jalila Foundation will provide the healthcare facilities with comprehensive details about the patients, their medical conditions, and the funds required for transplants and post-operative care. Furthermore, they will take measures to ensure that these cases receive timely support from the initiative. 

As a strategic partner, Emarat Al Youm newspaper will be responsible for transferring donations and contributions received through a hotline service. IACAD has pledged to collaborate with all parties and distribute donations to Dubai Health patients, identified by Al Jalila Foundation. 

His Excellency Ahmed Darwish Al Muhairi, Director General of the Islamic Affairs and Charitable Activities Department in Dubai,  confirmed that signing the MoU with Al Jalila Foundation and Emarat Al Youm newspaper supports the national agenda for achieving a better life for citizens and residents of the UAE, helping to empower and further humanitarian work in line with the vision of the wise leadership for supporting the spirit of giving in humanitarian work locally, regionally, and internationally. He explained that it also encourages community members to save lives and improve the quality of life of patients with organ failure, helping them return to being productive members of society. 

Dr. Amer Sharif, Chief Executive Officer of Dubai Health, said, “We are grateful to our partners in this campaign, as it marks another significant step towards providing support to patients in need. Through this collaboration, we combine expertise and resources to positively impact individuals and society, advancing health for humanity. At Dubai Health, we’re guided by our primary value of ‘Patient First,’ and are dedicated to providing our communities the highest quality healthcare and treatment.” 

Dr. Amer Al Zarooni, Chief Executive Officer of Al Jalila Foundation, said, “We at the Al Jalila Foundation are pleased to launch the second edition of the ‘Your Donation Saves Lives’ campaign, aimed at raising funds for kidney transplant operations. By providing critical support for life-saving surgeries and therapeutic services, we are building on the success of the campaign’s first edition, which treated over 38 kidney failure patients and significantly reduced the financial burden on their families. This ongoing collaboration is a testament to our commitment to advancing humanitarian efforts, underscored by Dubai Health’s spirit of giving.”  

Saud Al Darbi, Head of the News and Publishing Centre at Dubai Media Incorporated, said that Emarat Al Youm has a history of participating in important initiatives such as Your Donations Save Lives, so deciding to participate was natural. These include a strong legacy of partnerships with governmental and semi-governmental entities to deliver community initiatives.“Based on prior experiences, the newspaper has confidence that philanthropic businessmen and community members will react to the initiative so that these patients can be treated.” 

Dubai Islamic Bank (DIB) has made a substantial contribution to healthcare in Dubai with an AED 15 million contribution to Al Jalila Foundation, which leads the Giving mission of Dubai Health. The contribution will support the development of Dubai Health’s Hamdan Bin Rashid Cancer Hospital, the first comprehensive cancer care hospital in Dubai, underscoring their commitment to the community’s well-being and advancing healthcare infrastructure.

DIB’s contribution helps enable Dubai Health to launch an integrated model of cancer care at Hamdan Bin Rashid Cancer Hospital. Scheduled to open in 2026, the hospital will provide primary care services alongside advanced cancer treatment. This innovative approach will enable earlier detection and intervention, which is proven to optimise outcomes for patients.

Full spectrum of services

The hospital will house multidisciplinary teams, including specialised cancer nurses, offering a full spectrum of services in one location – from diagnosis to treatment to supportive care. Select treatments and services will be made available to patients in the comfort of their homes.

DIB’s support for the Hamdan Bin Rashid Cancer Hospital aligns with Dubai Health’s mission to enhance patient outcomes through an integrated model of care. By conducting on-site research and clinical trials, the hospital aims to continuously improve patient outcomes by discovering new treatments and therapies founded in evidence-based medicine. Dubai Health’s mission to connect patient care, research, medical education, and the spirit of giving at Hamdan Bin Rashid Cancer Hospital will set a new standard for excellence in cancer care.

New benchmark

Nawaf Al Rayssi, Head of Community Support Services at Dubai Islamic Bank, said: “We are proud to partner with Al Jalila Foundation to empower Dubai Health on this transformative project. DIB’s responsible investment in the Hamdan Bin Rashid Cancer Hospital is a testament to our unwavering commitment to the health and well-being of our community.

“This world-class facility will undoubtedly set a new benchmark for cancer care in the region and beyond, providing hope and advanced treatment options for countless individuals. As a responsible financial institution, Dubai Islamic Bank remains committed to the transformational journey of this nation, shaping the future of healthcare not only in the UAE, but the entire region.”

Dr. Amer Al Zarooni, CEO of Al Jalila Foundation, expressed his gratitude for DIB’s significant contribution. “Dubai Islamic Bank’s generous contribution to the Hamdan Bin Rashid Cancer Hospital is a true testament to the power of community partnerships. This contribution to Al Jalila Foundation empowers Dubai Health to transform cancer care, putting patient care at the forefront of everything we do. Together, we are one step closer to realising this transformative, integrated healthcare facility, ultimately improving the health and well-being of our entire community.”

Dubai Chambers announced that it has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Al Jalila Foundation, donating AED 15 million to support the Hamdan Bin Rashid Cancer Hospital, the first fully integrated and comprehensive cancer hospital in Dubai.

Dubai Chambers’ donation to the Hamdan Bin Rashid Cancer Hospital exemplifies their unwavering commitment to enhancing community welfare and supporting critical initiatives that improve quality of life.

The MoU was signed by Abdul Aziz Abdulla Al Ghurair, Chairman of Dubai Chambers, and Dr. Raja Easa Al Gurg, Chairperson of Al Jalila Foundation Board of Directors and Dubai Health Board Member, at the Dubai Chambers’ headquarters.

Abdul Aziz Abdulla Al Ghurair said, “In line with the vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, to strengthen social responsibility, Dubai Chambers is keen to support national projects that contribute to improving the quality of life and enhancing community services, thereby fostering social and economic development.”

Al Ghurair added, “Our cooperation with Al Jalila Foundation to support the Hamdan Bin Rashid Cancer Hospital reflects our commitment to the principles of social responsibility and the importance of charitable and humanitarian work, as part of our ongoing efforts to effectively contribute to serving the community.”

Dr. Raja Al Gurg said, “We are grateful to Dubai Chambers for their generous contribution toward establishing Dubai’s first comprehensive cancer hospital. Through this collaboration and the power of giving, Al Jalila Foundation is paving the way for enhanced care for cancer patients and their families in Dubai. This partnership aligns perfectly with our mission to foster a healthy and sustainable society, enhancing health and well-being through humanitarian, developmental, and community-focused efforts.”

Al Jalila Foundation is currently developing the Hamdan Bin Rashid Cancer Hospital, spanning 56,000 square metres. The hospital will feature 50 clinics, 30 clinical research areas, 60 infusion rooms, 10 urgent care rooms, five radiotherapy rooms, and 116 beds, complemented by 19 gardens spread across the campus. These gardens will offer patients space for recovery and opportunities to spend time outdoors with their families, promoting enhanced mental well-being.

The new facility will house a multidisciplinary team, including specialised nursing staff, and will provide integrated healthcare services from initial diagnosis through treatment, ensuring comprehensive care under one roof. Selected treatments and services will also be accessible to patients in their homes, ensuring continuity of affordable care and reflecting Dubai Health’s commitment to prioritising patient needs.

DP World Foundation has donated AED 15 million to Al Jalila Foundation to support the development of the Hamdan Bin Rashid Cancer Hospital, highlighting its commitment to corporate social responsibility and community welfare.

The contribution is part of DP World Foundation’s broader efforts to support vital healthcare services and improve access to quality healthcare for cancer patients.

The allocated funds will support the development of Dubai’s first integrated cancer hospital, scheduled to open in 2026. The advanced healthcare facility, which is being established in collaboration with the Al Jalila Foundation, will feature 50 clinics, 30 research areas, 60 infusion rooms, and 116 inpatient beds spread across a sprawling 56,000-square-metre campus.

His Excellency Nasser Abdulla Al Neyadi, Chief Officer Group Security, Government Relations & Public Affairs (GRPA), and DP World Foundation, presented the contribution during a visit to Al Jalila Foundation, including the Mohammed Bin Rashid Biomedical Research Centre, where he met with key healthcare officials and stakeholders.

HE Al Neyadi said: “We are deeply committed to making a real difference in society, and this donation reflects our dedication to supporting healthcare institutions and ensuring that quality care is accessible to everyone. We are proud to contribute to such a respected institution leading the way in cancer care and research. Together, we aspire to foster a healthier future for all.”

Dr. Amer Al Zarooni, CEO of the Al Jalila Foundation, said: “We extend heartfelt gratitude to the DP World Foundation for their generous donation towards the Hamdan Bin Rashid Cancer Hospital. The collaboration exemplifies the transformative impact of partnerships in accelerating the delivery of critical healthcare services and further emphasises Dubai Health’s commitment to improving the health and well-being of our community.

Together, with the support of our partners, we are steadfast in our dedication to transforming lives and ensuring better health for everyone.”

The philanthropic arm of DP World, DP World Foundation is committed to promoting social responsibility and supporting those in need, regardless of nationality, race, or religion. Earlier this year, DP World Foundation contributed AED 10 million to the Mothers’ Endowment Campaign launched to support the education of millions around the world.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Dubai Health, the first integrated academic health system in Dubai, has announced the inauguration of the Center for Prenatal Pediatrics, supported by Al Tayer Group. Located at Latifa Hospital, the new Center will manage high-risk pregnancies and deliver specialized care and monitoring for expecting mothers.

The inauguration ceremony was attended by H.E. Dr. Raja Easa Al Gurg, Chairperson of Al Jalila Foundation Board of Directors and Dubai Health Board Member, H.E. Dr. Amer Sharif, CEO of Dubai Health, Dr. Muna Tahlak, Chief Medical Officer at Dubai Health and CEO of Latifa Hospital, and Mr. Ahmed Al Tayer, Director of Al Tayer Group, alongside several senior officials of both entities.

Al Tayer Group has generously contributed 4 million dirhams through Al Jalila Foundation, which leads the giving mission of Dubai Health to establish the Center in honor of Shaikha Abdulla bin Kalban. This contribution aims to bolster Dubai Health’s commitment to delivering patient-centered care through its integrated academic health system.

The new Center is equipped with advanced, high-precision technology to ensure comprehensive care for the most complex and sensitive cases. From pregnancy to childbirth, a multidisciplinary team of pediatric and obstetrics specialists provides continuous care and monitoring for both mother and child, aiming to minimize future health issues.

H.E. Dr. Raja Easa Al Gurg, Chairperson of Al Jalila Foundation Board of Directors and Dubai Health Board Member, commended the inauguration of the Center, stating, “We are pleased to collaborate with Al Tayer Group, whose generous donations have been fundamental in opening the Center for Prenatal Pediatrics. Through this partnership, we aim to enhance the well-being of families and contribute to the overall health of the community, in alignment with Dubai Health’s commitment to elevate the standard of care advancing health for humanity.”

Ahmed Al Tayer, Director of Al Tayer Group, said: “As a family, we are privileged to have the opportunity to give back to the UAE, a nation that continues to invest significantly in its people. Prioritizing the wellbeing of future generations, world-class healthcare is a focal point for both Dubai and the UAE. We take pride in furthering the legacy outlined by the country’s visionary leadership.”

“In line with Al Tayer’s Philanthropic philosophy to focus and support initiatives related to medical advancement and children, we are happy to support this project by Latifa Hospital and Al Jalila Foundation. The inauguration of the Center for Prenatal Pediatrics at Latifa Hospital signifies an innovative new milestone in healthcare, redefining the benchmarks of pediatric and prenatal expertise in the region. We feel confident that under the Dubai Health leadership team, the Center will not only give the patients unparalleled care but will also set the platform of future collaborative research and development in the field of prenatal pediatrics”.

Dr. Muna Tahlak, Chief Medical Officer at Dubai Health and CEO of Latifa Hospital, said, “Equipped with the latest technology and expertise, the Center for Prenatal Pediatrics serves as a proactive response to the escalating demand for advanced prenatal care. The Center is a valuable addition to our academic health system, providing specialized care for expectant mothers and their children facing critical conditions. Moreover, the Center holds tremendous potential to emerge as a hub for discovery, fostering research and innovation specifically focused on advancing prenatal care and managing these challenging cases.”

The Center for Prenatal Pediatrics will begin receiving cases on 12 February 2024.

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

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

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

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

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

Reflection of Dubai Social Agenda 33

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

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

Beacon of hope

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

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

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

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

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

New model of care

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

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