Al Jalila Foundation, a member of the Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Global Initiatives, announced that it will establish the UAE’s first robotic biobank, in partnership with the Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences (MBRU) and the Dubai Health Authority (DHA). The collaboration is set to advance medical research in the areas of genetic disorders, cancer and other chronic diseases and pandemics.

Set to open in 2023 with a capacity to manage seven million specimens, the biobank will be one of the world’s largest in terms of sample capacity. The facility will be located at the Mohammed Bin Rashid Medical Research Institute, part of Al Jalila Foundation, in Dubai Healthcare City.

Due to the vital role biobanks play in progressing research and advancing medical discovery, the biobank will become an indispensable resource for the new Hamdan Bin Rashid Cancer Charity Hospital and other healthcare facilities in the UAE to conduct research and offer effective treatment.

His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairperson of Al Jalila Foundation Board of Trustees, said: “Access to genetic and imaging data through biobanks is driving forward pioneering approaches to analysis that would have been impossible just a few years ago. The launch of the UAE’s first robotic biobank reflects Dubai’s commitment to strengthening the capabilities of the healthcare sector and advancing efforts to improve people’s health. The biobank will serve as a major contributor to the advancement of modern medicine and will enable scientific discoveries that will help enhance the health and wellbeing of the community.”

A biobank is a place to store all types of human biological samples, such as blood, tissue, cells, or body fluids. It also stores data related to the samples as well as other biomolecular resources that can be used in health research. Biobanks have become an important resource in medical research, supporting many types of contemporary research like genomics and personalised medicine, and the development of diagnostics and therapeutics.

Her Excellency Dr Raja Easa Al Gurg, Chairperson of Al Jalila Foundation Board of Directors and Member of the Board of Trustees, said: “Biobanking is a game-changer for healthcare and will revolutionise medical research, leading to better outcomes for patient treatment. The biobank will provide an opportunity for people in the community and researchers to work together to build a better, healthier future for generations to come. Scientific progress will shape the nation’s economy by influencing our knowledge about human health, disease, therapeutics, personalised medicine, and more.”

Al Jalila Foundation is investing AED17 million to build a state-of-the-art facility and will manage seven million human biological materials. An automated, robotic, Artificial Intelligence based system will ensure biological samples are secured in cryogenic storage (below 80 degree Celsius) maintaining proper sample integrity and retrieval.

Dr Abdulkareem Sultan Al Olama, CEO of Al Jalila Foundation, said: “Biorepositories are places where you can store patient samples and really serve as a hub of collaboration between scientists for doing either population health studies, or looking at cohorts of patients who have specific diseases, and trying to find better therapeutics and diagnostics to treat patients and save lives.”

Patient confidentiality will be a priority in line with UAE’s laws and regulations. The biological and medical data will be used by scientists for research to make new discoveries about common and life-threatening diseases such as cancer, heart disease and stroke in order to improve public health.

Professor Alawi Alsheikh-Ali, Deputy Director-General of the Dubai Health Authority said: “The establishment of the robotic biobank is a clear reflection of Dubai’s vision for advancing healthcare and being at the forefront of discovery. I am confident the planned biobank will bring significant value to the healthcare system in Dubai and the region. It is a clear example of how the integration of care with discovery, supported by advancement, can set the foundation for better outcomes for our current and future patients.”

The UAE’s diverse population, with people from varied ethnicities and nationalities, will provide a valuable platform for comparative studies on genetic, environmental, nutritional habits and behavioral aspects. Biobanks can give researchers access to data representing a large number of people. Samples in biobanks and the data derived from those samples can often be used by multiple researchers for cross-purpose research studies.

The UAE’s first robotic biobank will attract strategic collaboration opportunities with key healthcare authorities and partners across the region and globally. The collaborations will support pioneering biomedical research and accelerate medical discoveries to transform patients’ lives.

It will operate in the best practices in biobanking and adhere to the highest compliance regulations and ethical standards for the collection, processing, storage and analysis of biological samples and data for research into genetic and environmental factors that impact on human health and disease.

Al Jalila Foundation, a philanthropic not-for-profit organisation dedicated to transforming lives through medical innovation, announced that Landmark Group, the region’s leading retail and hospitality conglomerate, will support the Foundation’s A’awen diabetes treatment programme with a total contribution of AED5 million over the next five years. The pledged amount is being raised by Landmark Group as part of  its flagship social initiative ‘Beat Diabetes’.

Launched in 2013, the Al Jalila Foundation’s A’awen (‘support’ in Arabic) treatment programme seeks to provide financial assistance to UAE citizens and residents who suffer from life-threatening illnesses and cannot afford access to quality healthcare. The Programme supports patients by alleviating a significant portion of the financial burden on them.

As part of its ‘Beat Diabetes’ initiative, Landmark Group raises funds across its extensive network of brand outlets in the UAE for Al Jalila Foundation’s diabetes research and treatment programmes. Going one step further for the cause, the Group matches the donations raised in stores dirham-for-dirham, to double the amount collected, and will continue to do so in the future.

Funds raised by Landmark Group will support diabetic patients who are eligible for financial support following a review by Al Jalila Foundation’s A’awen committee that comprises subject matter experts and physicians. Al Jalila Foundation addresses patients’ needs by working with its healthcare partners on treatment plans and will provide a report on the progress of the fundraising initiative and its positive impact.

Renuka Jagtiani, Chairwoman and CEO of the Landmark Group, said: “We have been committed to the fight against diabetes for more than a decade in the UAE, with a long-standing vision to create awareness related to this crippling, but preventable disease. Diabetes is a major cause of some of the world’s most debilitating health conditions and many patients facing financial hardships are unable to get the treatment they need. Our five-year pledge to the Al Jalila Foundation’s A’awen treatment programme is a vital step towards ensuring easier access to life-saving medical for those who need it.”

Dr Abdulkareem Sultan Al Olama, CEO of Al Jalila Foundation, said: “Through our partnership with Landmark Group, we have been able to make meaningful progress in diabetes research to improve patient treatment. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), at least 422 million people worldwide have diabetes, and 1.5 million deaths are directly attributed to diabetes each year. This calls for urgent action and collaboration. Investing in research will help us uncover relevant and innovative solutions to one of today’s most pressing healthcare challenges and we thank Landmark Group for its unwavering support and contribution to diabetes research, prevention and treatment.”

Beat Diabetes initiative

Since 2014, Landmark Group’s ‘Beat Diabetes’ initiative has raised and pledged more than AED13 million towards diabetes research and treatment. In 2021, Landmark Group hosted the 12^th edition of its Beat Diabetes Walk, a dedicated day-long event that brought together more than 10,000 participants to educate the public about the condition.

In recognition of its dedication to tackling diabetes, the conglomerate is the first and only corporation from the GCC region included on the members list of the Global Diabetes Compact Forum. Founded by the World Health Organization (WHO), the Forum aims to create a world where the risk of diabetes (Type 1 and Type 2) is reduced, and where people who are diagnosed with the condition have access to equitable, comprehensive, affordable and quality treatment and care.

Al Jalila Foundation, a member of the Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Global Initiatives, announced that Yaseen M. Jaffer, CEO of Proclad Group, has donated AED10 million to support the UAE’s first charity hospital ‘Hamdan Bin Rashid Cancer Charity Hospital’, which seeks to help cancer patients in need.

The 250-bed hospital, named after the late Sheikh Hamdan bin Rashid Al Maktoum, will provide best-in-class outpatient, ambulatory and diagnostic services as well as inpatient and surgical services in a nurturing environment that prides itself on personalised patient care. Phase 1 of the hospital is expected to open in 2024 with 150 beds and the capacity to treat 30,000 patients a year.  The UAE’s first cancer charity hospital aims to redefine cancer care for those in need and become a beacon of hope for cancer patients and their families. Yaseen Jaffer’s wife is a cancer survivor and his donation honours her brave journey and is dedicated to anyone who has ever been touched by cancer.

Dr Abdulkareem Sultan Al Olama, CEO of Al Jalila Foundation, said: “The health and wellbeing of the UAE’s citizens and residents is one of Al Jalila Foundation’s top priorities. The Hamdan Bin Rashid Cancer Charity Hospital is set to become a leader in cancer care serving patients in need. Donor support is an integral part of our success in developing the state-of-the-art hospital and we are grateful to Yaseen Jaffer and his family for their generous donation. The hospital will offer unparalleled cancer expertise and make an invaluable contribution to the country’s healthcare sector putting patient care first.”

Yaseen Jaffer said: “My wife’s fight against cancer inspires me to express my appreciation and immense gratitude for the care and treatment that she received. I am proud to support Al Jalila Foundation in its mission to provide cancer patients with quality treatment in the UAE. This charity hospital will be a symbol of hope for patients who will be able to receive treatment at home while receiving the support of their families.”

“With cancer survival rates improving, there is a great need to support local cancer programmes and initiatives and help strengthen the support network available to cancer patients and their families. I hope to inspire others to support the Foundation’s noble cause and contribute towards the building of the Hamdan Bin Rashid Cancer Charity Hospital in Dubai,” he concluded.

Yaseen visited the newly opened cancer drop-in centre, Majlis Al Amal, to see how it’s impacting women’s lives. Majlis Al Amal, which in Arabic means Hope Lounge, is the first community centre of its kind dedicated to female cancer patients and their wellbeing. Al Jalila Foundation established Majlis Al Amal to support patients, survivors and their loved ones as they navigate the disease and its challenges. The Centre provides a support network in a nurturing environment and aims to keep the message of hope alive. All services offered at the centre are free of charge.

Since the announcement of the hospital earlier this year, Al Jalila Foundation has already raised AED350 million, towards the AED750 million fundraising target, with major donations received from a number of philanthropists, government and non-government organisations, UAE businesses and corporates to support the hospital’s development.

Al Jalila Foundation, a member of the Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Global Initiatives, dedicated to transforming lives through medical innovation, announces that the Chalhoub Group, the leading partner for luxury across the Middle East since 1955, partners with the Foundation to support in the advancement of local medical research to improve patients’ lives.

Al Jalila Foundation CEO, Dr Abdulkareem Al Olama, welcomed Patrick Chalhoub, the Group President of the Chalhoub Group, his family, and team of volunteers to the Foundation to tour the Mohammed Bin Rashid Medical Research Institute and learn more about the Foundation’s healthcare programs. Patrick Chalhoub thanked Al Jalila Foundation for its humanitarian contributions and for giving Chalhoub Group the opportunity to be part of its mission to make a difference to patients’ lives.

Dr Abdulkareem Sultan Al Olama, CEO of Al Jalila Foundation, said: “Our investment in medical research reaffirms our commitment to embed research and innovation in the fabric of the nation’s long-term healthcare strategy and to adapt to the changing landscape. We are extremely grateful for our partnership with Chalhoub Group who, like us, believe that investing in medical research is critical to the longevity and sustainability of future generations.”

Patrick Chalhoub, President of Chalhoub Group, said: “Impacting the lives of people and communities around is deep-rooted into our values since the Group inception in 1955, it is close to our family’s heart and part of Chalhoub impact. We are proud to be a key contributor to Al Jalila Foundation, to extend our support for advance local medical research and improve patients’ lives. Our Chalhoub Impact strategy was created to support our community needs in the regions we operate and will always count on the participation of family members and employees to create a positive impact.”

“Medical and scientific advancements can change the course of history for the better, and sustainable funding is vital to developing better treatment options and cures to diseases affecting mankind. Today, thanks to advances in medical research, people are living longer and healthier lives. With sustainable funding we can respond to the emerging health needs and pursue research opportunities that will make the greatest impact.” Dr Abdulkareem continued.

Since its inception in 2013, Al Jalila Foundation has lead opportunities to increase innovative and impactful medical research investing AED 28 million to award 100 research grants and 9 international research fellowships to discover solutions for the region’s biggest health challenges: cancer, cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, obesity, mental health and emerging diseases.

As a non-profit organisation Al Jalila Foundation relies on the support of its partners and donations are invested in healthcare programs to transform lives.

Al Jalila Foundation, a member of the Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Global Initiatives, dedicated to transforming lives through medical innovation, today announced the launch of Majlis Al Amal (Hope Lounge), a unique ‘cancer drop-in centre’ and the first of its kind community centre dedicated to female cancer patients and their wellbeing.

In the UAE, approximately 4,500 new cases of cancer are reported annually, making cancer the third leading cause of death affecting more women than men. Due to the high prevalence of the disease, Al Jalila Foundation is building Hamdan Bin Rashid Cancer Charity Hospital, a state-of-the-art facility in Dubai to provide quality specialist care to cancer patients who cannot afford treatment expenses.

The announcement of the new centre marks the end of Breast Cancer Awareness Month and Al Jalila Foundation’s month-long #PINKtober campaign in partnership with ‘Brest Friends’, the UAE’s first cancer support group, founded by Dr Houriya Kazim in 2005. The cancer drop-in centre draws on the success of Brest Friends support group that has proven a strong support network is integral to the patient’s healing journey.

Dr Abdulkareem Sultan Al Olama, Chief Executive Officer of Al Jalila Foundation, said: “Cancer remains one of the most serious health challenges and in addition to investing in medical research and supporting patient treatment, Al Jalila Foundation is also committed to supporting patients and survivors’ wellbeing. Around the world community drop-in centres have proven to contribute greatly to the healing process and now we look forward to contributing to bring this unique, life-changing community service to the UAE for the first time.”

Al Jalila Foundation has been working with Brest Friends since 2015 and the inspiration for the cancer drop-in centre was modelled on the support group which has helped hundreds of women across the Emirates.  Medical intervention plays a significant role in the treatment process while the emotional fragility of the patient is often overlooked. Individuals affected by cancer, and their families, are impacted psychologically and emotionally during the process and even after treatment ends.

Located on the ground floor of Al Jalila Foundation, the cancer drop-in centre is a safe space for cancer patients and their family members to enhance their emotional health in a relaxed, supportive environment. The Centre is ready to receive patients who can drop-in 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 specialists volunteering their time to make a difference to the lives of women affected by cancer. All services are offered free of charge. The Centre is run by volunteers and many opportunities are available for people in the community to donate their time and expertise to support cancer warriors.

Dr Houriya Kazim, President & Founder of Brest Friends said: “Dealing with cancer is one of the hardest challenges that patients and their families could face. With the opening of Majlis Al Amal women now have a place to drop-in at any time for the emotional support they need in a safe and comforting environment. The first of its kind cancer drop-in centre in the UAE is another milestone in our journey of hope to support cancer patients.

The UAE Marriott Business Council, a longstanding partner and supporter of Al Jalila Foundation’s healthcare programs, sponsored the design and fit-out of the Centre.  Marriott strives to be a force for good and encourages its employees to make a positive, sustainable impact in the communities they operate in.

Pam Wilby, Chair of the UAE Marriott Business Council, said: “On behalf of the UAE Marriott Business Council, it gives us such pleasure to unite as a team of 62 Marriott International hotels and 13,000 associates in the UAE to enable the design and fit-out of the cancer drop-in centre. We have been on an immensely gratifying, philanthropic journey with Al Jalila Foundation for several years now, and with many fundraising initiatives planned for this year and beyond, we remain committed to the relationship and to saving the millions of lives of those suffering from cancer.”

Earlier this year, Al Jalila Foundation announced that it will open the Hamdan Bin Rashid Cancer Charity Hospital in 2024 to provide life-saving treatment to cancer patients unable to afford quality care.

“Al Jalila Foundation puts patients at the heart of everything we do and we believe that everyone should have access to emotional support to help navigate their illness and improve the way they live with it. As cancer is one of Al Jalila Foundation’s healthcare priorities, Majlis Al Amal is the perfect complement to the cancer hospital providing holistic 360 patient care.” Dr Abdulkareem concluded.

Al Jalila Foundation, a member of the Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Global Initiatives, today announced that Mohammed Bin Rashid Medical Research Institute, a subsidiary of the Foundation, has established a partnership with Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences (MBRU) to advance biomedical research in the UAE.

As part of the partnership agreement, Al Jalila Foundation has pledged AED8 million of funding annually to support MBRU research efforts. The partnership aims to inspire collaborative research and enhance the quality of both entities’ research programmes to contribute to the UAE’s thriving medical research ecosystem.

The partnership will foster collaboration among the research community, create opportunities for students and faculty to further their education and explore ways to support each other’s research objectives.

Her Excellency Dr. Raja Al Gurg, Member of the Board of Trustees of Al Jalila Foundation and Chairperson of the Board of Directors of Al Jalila Foundation, commented: “Al Jalila Foundation’s investment in medical research reaffirms our commitment to embed research and innovation in the fabric of the UAE’s long-term strategy to safeguard the health of the nation.  We are proud to partner with MBRU, a leading academic and research institution in the UAE, to strengthen and complement the research conducted by Al Jalila Foundation.”

Al Jalila Foundation and MBRU have been working together since inception. To date, the Foundation has provided scholarships for 18 postgraduate students and 17 undergraduate students pursuing medicine at MBRU investing AED13 million to advance the UAE’s medical expertise. The Foundation also awarded six research grants in the areas of cardiovascular disease, cancer and mental health.

Dr. Abdulkareem Sultan Al Olama, CEO of Al Jalila Foundation, added: “Scientific research is a critical resource for discovering new ways to diagnose and treat diseases affecting mankind. Al Jalila Foundation and MBRU share a commitment to advance medical research on treatments that will benefit the UAE population. This agreement combines the strengths of our institutions and we are confident that it will have a positive impact on the lives of people.”

Dr Amer Sharif, Vice Chancellor MBRU, commented, “Al Jalila Foundation and MBRU have a long-standing history of collaboration. They have supported our mission since inception, and we are very honoured to join hands once again to advance health through an integrated academic health system.”

“We recognise the significant role scientific research plays. This pledge is a valuable resource that will further stimulate research in the UAE and enable scientists at MBRU to further progress in their work. It will also enhance the supportive environment for scientific and clinical research which will improve health outcomes for individuals and communities, in alignment with the objectives of the Dubai Academic Health Corporation. Together with Al Jalila Foundation, we will reinforce Dubai’s position on the global map.”

Since inception in 2013, Al Jalila Foundation has provided opportunities to increase innovative and impactful medical research investing AED28 million to award 100 research grants and nine international research fellowships at leading global institutions in the UK, USA and Japan to discover solutions for the region’s biggest health challenges. In line with the vision to position the UAE at the forefront of medical innovation, the Foundation established the first independent multi-disciplinary biomedical research institute with an investment of AED300 million solely funded by philanthropic partners.

By supporting talented scientists and investing in groundbreaking research, Al Jalila Foundation is developing the next generation of innovators in health sciences.

Al Jalila Foundation, a member of the Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Global Initiatives, announced that Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA) has donated AED30 million to support ‘Hamdan Bin Rashid Cancer Charity Hospital’, the UAE’s first charity hospital aimed at helping cancer patients in need.

HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, announced last April plans to establish the‘Hamdan Bin Rashid Cancer Charity Hospital’.

The hospital was named after the late Sheikh Hamdan bin Rashid Al Maktoum. In less than four months since the announcement of the hospital by HH, Al Jalila Foundation has already raised AED330 million, towards the AED750 million fundraising target, with major donations from philanthropists, government and non-government organisations, UAE businesses and corporates.

His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairperson of the Board of Trustees of Al Jalila Foundation, said: “Health is the cornerstone of a nation’s longevity, economic development and sustainability and Al Jalila Foundation aims to build medical capacity to strengthen the UAE’s health system. The health and wellbeing of the UAE’s citizens and residents is one of our top priorities and the Hamdan Bin Rashid Cancer Charity Hospital will become a leader in cancer care serving patients in need.  We are grateful to DEWA and the philanthropic community for coming together to help make quality healthcare accessible to the most vulnerable in society.”

“DEWA supports the vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, to promote the values of goodness, giving and benevolence. We are pleased to support the Hamdan Bin Rashid Cancer Charity Hospital in Dubai, the first of its kind in the UAE. This hospital commemorates the late Sheikh Hamdan bin Rashid Al Maktoum’s legacy in humanitarian and charity projects in the development, urban, educational and medical sectors. Since the UAE union by the Founding Fathers, the UAE is pioneering in humanitarian work worldwide. Apart from providing electricity and water according to the highest availability, reliability and efficiency standards, DEWA also aims to be a key contributor to developing the medical infrastructure of the country, enhancing the efficiency of the health ecosystem and responding to change and emergencies,” said HE Saeed Mohammed Al Tayer, MD & CEO of DEWA.

Her Excellency Dr Raja Easa Al Gurg, Member of the Board of Trustees and Chairperson of the Board of Directors of Al Jalila Foundation, commented: “Al Jalila Foundation works with its partners and donors to deliver innovative treatment, education and research programmes to support the UAE National Health Agenda to achieve a world-class healthcare system. We are extremely grateful to DEWA for their continued generosity and for supporting the work we do to transform lives. The UAE’s first cancer charity hospital aims to redefine cancer care for those in need and become a beacon of hope for cancer patients and their families.”

Dr Abdulkareem Sultan Al Olama, CEO of Al Jalila Foundation, said: “Donor support is an integral part of our success in developing the Hamdan Bin Rashid Cancer Charity Hospital and we are grateful to our long-term partner DEWA who has committed to helping us realise our vision to support cancer patients and their families. The hospital will bring together cancer expertise and make an invaluable contribution to the country’s healthcare sector putting patient care first.”

The 250-bed hospital will occupy 50,000 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 personalised patient care. It will be built in two phases with Phase 1 expected to open at the end of 2023 with 150 beds and the capacity to treat 30,000 patients a year.

Al Jalila Foundation, a member of the Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Global Initiatives, announced that it has so far raised AED300 million to establish the ‘Hamdan Bin Rashid Cancer Charity Hospital’, the UAE’s first charity hospital that seeks to help cancer patients in need.

The new total, raised in less than three months, brings the Foundation another step closer to reaching its AED750 million fundraising target. The Foundation had previously announced in June that it had raised AED220 million towards the project. A number of philanthropists, government and non-government organisations, UAE businesses and corporates have generously donated to the Hospital project.

The latest entities that have donated to the project include the Investment Corporation of Dubai, Islamic Affairs and Charitable Activities Department in Dubai (IACAD), Awqaf and Minors Affairs Foundation (AMAF), Dubai Islamic Bank, Union Coop, Dar Al Ber Society and the Family of the Late Fardan Bin Ali Alfardan.

Spanning 50,000 square metres, the Al Jalila Foundation’s new 250-bed hospital will be built in two phases and will have a total capacity of treating 30,000 patients a year. The first phase of the hospital is set to open at the end of 2023 and will include 150 beds equipped with cutting-edge technology. The hospital will bring together innovative expertise and advanced medical technologies to provide comprehensive cancer care ranging from prevention, diagnosis, treatment and palliative care. The hospital will also work with the Mohammed Bin Rashid Medical Research Institute on research studies to advance cancer care.

His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairperson of the Board of Trustees of Al Jalila Foundation, said: “The development of the Hamdan Bin Rashid Cancer Charity Hospital stems from our vision to provide truly inclusive healthcare services and the high priority we place on the wellbeing of the UAE’s citizens and residents. The Hospital is set to become a leader in cancer care, and we are immensely grateful to the philanthropic community for their contributions, which are helping us in realising our objective of making quality healthcare accessible to the most vulnerable in society.”

Her Excellency Dr. Raja Easa Al Gurg, Member of the Board of Trustees and Chairperson of the Board of Directors of Al Jalila Foundation, said: “Health is the cornerstone of a nation’s longevity, economic development and sustainability. At Al Jalila Foundation, we aim to build medical capacity as part of our contributions to strengthen the UAE’s health system. The Hamdan Bin Rashid Cancer Charity Hospital will be a beacon of hope, and we are grateful for the generosity and support of our donors that are helping us make this project a reality.”

Dr. Abdulkareem Sultan Al Olama, CEO of Al Jalila Foundation, said: “Donor support is an integral part of our success in developing the Hamdan Bin Rashid Cancer Charity Hospital. We are grateful to our partners and donors who have committed to helping us realise our vision to help cancer patients. The UAE’s first charity hospital will make a big difference in our community by providing comprehensive cancer care that is based on medical research in collaboration with the best cancer care hospitals in the world.”

Donors supporting the new Hamdan Bin Rashid Cancer Charity Hospital have praised the initiative to build the hospital as a pioneering contribution to the nation’s healthcare sector.

His Excellency Mohammed Ibrahim Al Shaibani, Managing Director of Investment Corporation of Dubai, said: “The Investment Corporation of Dubai is greatly honoured to be part of this initiative to build the new Hamdan Bin Rashid Cancer Charity Hospital. We believe that the hospital, which is a wonderful tribute to the legacy of the late Sheikh Hamdan bin Rashid Al Maktoum, will make an invaluable contribution to the country’s healthcare sector. The hospital will be another major milestone in the history of the UAE and will help transform the lives of many cancer patients and their families.”

His Excellency Hamad Al Sheikh Ahmed Al Shaibani, Director General of the Islamic Affairs and Charitable Activities Department in Dubai, said: “The Islamic Affairs and Charitable Activities Department in Dubai is proud to support the construction of the Hamdan Bin Rashid Cancer Charity Hospital as part of its commitment to social responsibility. IACAD places great importance on supporting efforts aimed at sustaining charitable and humanitarian work. The hospital honours the late Sheikh Hamdan bin Rashid Al Maktoum for his extraordinary philanthropic work and also gives hope to the most deprived patients.”

His Excellency Ali Al Mutawa, Secretary General, Awqaf and Minors Affairs Foundation, said: “The late Sheikh Hamdan bin Rashid Al Maktoum was among the first supporters of endowment projects and one of the most prominent contributors to humanitarian work. Today, the Awqaf Foundation, in partnership with various entities, is following in Sheikh Hamdan’s footsteps and his path of compassion and philanthropy, by contributing to the development of the state-of-the-art hospital that will provide the most innovative expertise to cancer patients in need.”

Abdulla Ali Obaid Al Hamli, Managing Director of Dubai Islamic Bank said: “Dubai Islamic Bank is delighted to support the development of the Hamdan Bin Rashid Cancer Charity Hospital, an initiative that will provide the highest level of cancer care to our community. We remain committed to Al Jalila Foundation, especially the Hamdan Bin Rashid Cancer Charity Hospital, which we see as a critical player in the progress of the medical and healthcare industry. We believe the hospital will have a strong role in finding solutions and innovations that reduce patient suffering and spreading health awareness among members of society.”

His Excellency Majid Hamad Rahma Al Shamsi, Chairman of the Board of Directors of Union Coop, said: “Union Coop is keen to play an effective role in serving the community, participating in social development and supporting research to advance national prosperity. We are extremely proud to contribute to the development of the Hamdan Bin Rashid Cancer Charity Hospital to advance education, treatment and research in the medical sector. Supporting non-profit medical initiatives is a top priority for Union Coop as it contributes to reinforcing the status of Dubai and the UAE as a hub for medical innovation.”

Dr. Mohammed Suhail Al Muhairi, CEO and Managing Director of Dar Al Ber Society, said: “Dar Al Ber Society’s contribution to Al Jalila Foundation’s humanitarian projects embodies the Society’s vision to support charitable, humanitarian and development work in its commitment to the values of social responsibility and prioritising the health of vulnerable patients and assisting them in their treatment. The Hamdan Bin Rashid Cancer Charity Hospital is of exceptional importance as it will help patients receive the urgent treatment they need.”

Dr. Mahdi Al Fardan, Family of the Late Fardan Bin Ali Alfardan, said: “In memory of my late father, Fardan Alfardan, our family wishes to contribute towards the building of the Hamdan Bin Rashid Cancer Charity Hospital in Dubai. Throughout his life, my father took a keen interest in community outreach through healthcare. It was his mission to make a positive impact on the lives of families facing cancer.  We hope our contribution will help the hospital open new doors in outstanding patient care and deliver the most leading-edge treatments available today.”

Al Jalila Foundation, a member of the Mohammed Bin Rashid Global Initiatives, announced that Real Madrid football legend, Michel Salgado, will serve as its official ‘Sports Ambassador’ to champion charitable causes.

Selected from the sporting community for his exceptional contributions to sport, ambassador Michel Salgado will act as a champion for Al Jalila Foundation by representing the Foundation at various events and promoting partnerships to connect sports with philanthropy for the greater good.

Dr Abdulkareem Sultan Al Olama, the Chief Executive Officer of Al Jalila Foundation, welcomed Michel Salgado to Al Jalila Foundation for a signing ceremony to commence the sportsman’s commitment to giving back to the community.

Dr Abdulkareem Sultan Al Olama, CEO of Al Jalila Foundation, said: “An active lifestyle is the cornerstone of health. Sports like football serve as an incredible platform to reach hundreds of thousands of people to promote healthy living and raise funds for charitable causes. We are proud to have a football legend like Michel commit to supporting our work, and it is inspiring to see a world-famous personality use their influence to do good and make a difference to people’s lives.”

Michel Salgado, Fursan Hispania FC, said: “Over the years I have admired the work that Al Jalila Foundation does to transform lives and I am so proud to be selected as a sports ambassador and be able to use my work to represent the Foundation. It is our duty as athletes to be role models for children and teach them the importance of giving back to the community. After living in the UAE for nine years, I am proud to call the UAE home and I feel that it is my responsibility as a citizen to do my part to help others. It is also the ideal way that I can use my talents to contribute to the country that has given me so much. I am in awe of the UAE that continues to prosper despite the COVID-19 pandemic, proving that when we work together for the greater good, we can make a real difference in our society.”

Al Jalila Foundation, a member of the Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Global Initiatives, announced that Lieutenant General His Highness Sheikh Ahmed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Deputy Chairman of Dubai Police and Public Security in Dubai, has extended support to the ‘Hamdan Bin Rashid Cancer Charity Hospital’, the UAE’s first cancer charity hospital in Dubai.

The 250-bed cancer charity hospital pays tribute to the late Sheikh Hamdan Bin Rashid Al Maktoum for his lifetime of service to the nation and extraordinary global philanthropic achievements and aims to be a pioneer in cancer care for patients in need.

Lieutenant General His Highness Sheikh Ahmed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Deputy Chairman of Dubai Police and Public Security in Dubai, said that the Hamdan Bin Rashid Cancer Charity Hospital embodies the values of the late Sheikh Hamdan bin Rashid Al Maktoum and is faithful to the path of charity and benevolence that he chose throughout his life, promoting compassion, cooperation and solidarity between communities and individuals. The Hospital will act as a beacon of hope for cancer patients who will be able to receive free treatment as per the highest international medical standards. It will also promote the UAE’s research and scientific efforts and offer further medical contributions, especially in the fields of oncology and cancer treatment.

“Providing healthcare to the people in need, advancing the healthcare ecosystem and boosting scientific research as the key to developing the medical sector, were among the key aspects of charity and humanitarian aid to which Sheikh Hamdan paid great attention and care to, given his strong belief in their vital role in serving humanity and caring for patients all over the world. The announcement of the Hamdan Bin Rashid Cancer Charity Hospital by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, honours the memory of the late Sheikh Hamdan and sends the message that the journey of humanity and charity never ends,” Lt. General HH Sheikh Ahmed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum said.

“Sheikh Hamdan Bin Rashid founded a unique humanitarian school of thought. He was a pioneer of charitable work in the UAE. He introduced a new way of thinking where charitable work opportunities were unlimited. His charity work was not restricted to conventional areas, but rather included diverse fields such as education, culture, health, care for orphans, the poor and the needy, medical treatment for cancer patients and children and relief for those who have been subjected to famine and natural disasters all over the world.  The generous late Hamdan Bin Rashid was always ready to support people in need, meet their needs, build schools for their children and establish healthcare centers to fill them with hope. This is the late Hamdan’s school of thought that will be honored throughout the ages,” His Highness added.

Her Excellency Dr Raja Easa Al Gurg, Member of the Board of Trustees and Chairperson of the Board of Directors of Al Jalila Foundation, said: “We are honoured to have the support of HH Sheikh Ahmed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum to strengthen our capacity to transform patient care, advance pioneering research, educate medical leaders and improve cancer care for the most vulnerable in society. The Hamdan Bin Rashid Cancer Charity Hospital will be a beacon of hope for cancer patients and their families, and we are grateful to the generosity and support of our partners and donors that make it possible.”

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), cancer is the second leading cause of death globally and is responsible for about 10 million deaths per year. Late-stage presentation and lack of access to diagnosis and treatment are common, particularly among the most vulnerable in society. In the UAE, approximately 4,500 new cases of cancer are reported every year and cancer is one of the leading causes of deaths.