In yet another success story of public-private collaboration in Dubai’s medical sector, a team of physicians from Al Jalila Children’s Specialty Hospital (Al Jalila Children’s), Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences (MBRU) and Mediclinic Middle East have successfully carried out the first pediatric kidney transplant from a live donor in the UAE on a 16-year-old boy suffering from end-stage kidney. The surgery was funded by Al Jalila Foundation, a not-for-profit organisation dedicated to transforming lives through medical research, education and treatment in the UAE.

In a special letter sent to the patient, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai told Pritvik Sinhadc that the UAE is his home and that he would receive the best care possible. In the letter, His Highness said: “To my dear Pritvik, this is a small gesture from me to you to remind you that you are here at home and that you are in safe hands, and I will pray to God to keep you in good health and safe… keep smiling little warrior.”

In June 2020, Pritvik arrived at the nephrology clinic of Al Jalila Children’s suffering from complete kidney failure. Having been born with small, partially functioning kidneys, Pritvik had reached end stage kidney disease and required immediate renal replacement therapy, according to his doctors.

Pritvik’s father, Bhaskar Sinhadc, was identified as a successful match following which he was placed through a full donor evaluation process. The transplant was successfully executed by Dr. Ramzi Ayache, Nephrologist at Mediclinic City Hospital, in collaboration with Dr. Farhad Janahi, Consultant Urologist & Transplant Surgeon at Mediclinic City Hospital and Assistant Professor of Surgery at MBRU and Dr. Waldo Concepcion, Head of the Al Jalila Children’s Organ Transplant Center. The operation, which has saved Pritvik’s life, is also expected to improve the quality of his life in the years ahead.

Before undergoing his surgery, His Excellency Humaid Al Qutami, Director General of the Dubai Health Authority (DHA) visited Pritvik to enquire about his condition and reiterated DHA’ s unwavering support towards the welfare of the family.

Al Qutami said the exceptional transformation witnessed in Dubai’s healthcare sector reaffirms the emirate’s global position as a preferred destination for people looking for a distinctive medical experience in a safe and healthy climate.

He highlighted the success of government and private healthcare facilities in Dubai in providing the highest levels of care to patients when performing various kinds of operations, including rare and complicated surgeries, thanks to their state-of-the-art facilities and skilled medical professionals.

“The success of Pritvik’s operation marks an important step forward in conducting such highly precise operations. It also supports the development efforts taking place in Dubai,” said Al Qutami. The Director General of DHA congratulated the medical team who performed the operation, including all the teams who contributed to its success.

Her Excellency Dr. Raja Al Gurg, Vice Chairperson of the Board of Trustees, MBRU, said the University was honoured to be part of the historic procedure in the UAE. “Our mission at MBRU is to advance health in the UAE and beyond, and this historic procedure is proof that we are on the right path. Our core values of connectivity, giving and excellence came to the fore through our connectivity with long-standing partners, a commitment to medical excellence and giving back to communities.” she said.

“We are proud of the achievements of MBRU’s Organ Transplant Programme thus far and its role in bringing partners together to create better outcomes for patients. Most importantly, we are humbled to have played a part in allowing this impressive young man Pritvik to live his life and press ahead while enjoying quality time with his family and realising his full potential.”

Dr. Abdulkareem Sultan Al Olama, CEO, Al Jalila Foundation, said: “Through our A’awen programme we are helping parents give their children the opportunity to undergo the latest medical procedures at world-class medical institutions, offering them renewed hope for their child’s future. The programme helps alleviate the financial burden on families so that they can focus on their child’s treatment plan and recovery. Our top priority at Al Jalila Foundation is to transform lives through medical innovation, and without investments in research, advances in life-changing healthcare are not possible. We are grateful to our partners and generous donors for working with us to give children like Pritvik a chance to have a healthy, prosperous future. Pritvik is a bright young boy with a full life ahead of him. We wish Pritvik a speedy recovery and look forward to seeing what the future holds for him on a personal and academic front.”

Dr. Abdulla Al Khayat, CEO of Al Jalila Children’s Speciality Hospital, said: “We are proud of this joint achievement which has given Pritvik a new lease of life. This pioneering surgery puts us one step closer towards achieving our government’s vision of increasing access to quality transplant services and putting the UAE at the forefront of organ transplant regionally and globally. Our dedicated team of experts in the newly launched Al Jalila Children’s Organ Transplant is working day and night to provide children suffering from acute and chronic kidney disease with quality care in a child friendly environment, helping improve the lives of children in the UAE and beyond.”

Matthew Dronsfield, Director of Mediclinic City Hospital, said: “We at Mediclinic Middle East are proud to be a part of the first successful living donor paediatric renal transplant. This marks another important milestone for the development of transplant services in Dubai which is the result of the close collaboration by our multi-disciplinary transplant teams at MBRU, Al Jalila Children’s and Mediclinic Middle East. Pritvik’s father, Bhaskar Sinha, was operated on in Mediclinic City Hospital on the day of transplant and will continue to be closely monitored by the transplant team.”

A talented young boy, Pritvik has been accepted as an official affiliated researcher at BEYOND: Center for Fundamental Concepts in Science to research astrophysics. He is a published co-author on NASA’s Primer on Astrobiology and graduated as a World Science Scholar in June 2020. However, his medical condition was taking a heavy toll on his research work and his schoolwork, necessitating an urgent kidney transplant.

Pritvik, who was named a UAE Ambassador of Organ Donation, said: “I pledge to work towards raising awareness on the crucial need for organ donation in saving lives of patients like me, who would otherwise not make it without a transplant. I have been lucky to have my father as my donor. However, there are many who need transplants to survive and I shall be working closely with MBRU and the Al Jalila Foundation to ensure that there is increased awareness on organ donation.”

In December 2020, Dubai Crown Prince and Chairman of The Executive Council of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum announced that the government has approved an organ transplant programme to further cement Dubai’s leadership in this field and raise the bar for healthcare excellence. The programme will contribute to the efforts to transform Dubai into a global healthcare tourism destination and a centre for medical research. Pritvik’s case, amongst many others, reflects the progress that key entities are making in working together to transform Dubai into a global healthcare destination.

Al Jalila Foundation, a global philanthropic organisation dedicated to transforming lives through medical education and research, announced today that it has awarded AED2.5 million in seed grants to five UAE-based medical researchers. The COVID-19 research grants in the areas of genetics, therapies and diagnosis are the first to be awarded under the auspices of the recently inaugurated Mohammed Bin Rashid Medical Research Institute to help enhance the UAE’s capacity to address the pandemic and other viral diseases in the future.

The research awards were presented by His Highness Sheikh Mansoor bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairman of Dubai’s Supreme Committee of Crisis and Disaster Management, during a ceremony at Al Jalila Foundation.

The award recipients are highly talented scientists from some of the most prestigious medical institutions in the UAE including United Arab Emirates University, University of Sharjah, Al Ain University and Al Jalila Children’s Specialty Hospital.

During the event, Al Jalila Foundation engraved the name of His Highness Sheikh Mansoor bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum on a first-of-its-kind donor recognition wall called Bassmat Rashid Bin Saeed. The donor recognition wall pays tribute to the late Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum’s philanthropic legacy and honours generous donors who invest in medical research.

His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairperson of the Board of Trustees of Al Jalila Foundation, said the Foundation’s efforts to advance medical research support the UAE leadership’s vision for the future of healthcare and the high priority they place on scientific and medical fields.

“The Foundation’s initiatives reflect its strong commitment to enhancing the capabilities of the country’s healthcare system by supporting research organisations and talented scientists as well as forging cooperation with international research entities and public and private sector institutions in the UAE. The Al Jalila Foundation is keen to work with medical institutions to enhance the UAE’s readiness to face health challenges, the most critical of which is the COVID-19 pandemic. At a time when the world is racing against time to find solutions for eradicating the virus, well-funded research efforts are critical to mitigate current and future health and economic challenges,” he added.

His Highness Sheikh Mansoor bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum praised the efforts of Al Jalila Foundation and the researchers who received grants for their commitment to advancing research to combat COVID-19.

His Highness said: “Dubai is committed to supporting research in healthcare and medical fields as part of the vision of Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum to transform the UAE’s growth and development through new knowledge and innovation. Exploring new possibilities and breakthrough discoveries in healthcare and medical sectors is key to the UAE’s and Dubai’s efforts to create future-ready economic and social systems that are geared to meet the evolving needs of a post-COVID world. Al Jalila Foundation’s efforts to promote COVID-19 research is consistent with Dubai’s strong strategic focus on these sectors and its commitment to creating long term value by advancing the frontiers of learning and science.”

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: “We are proud to support the nation’s efforts to combat COVID-19. These research awards are testament to our commitment to adapting to the changing needs of the medical landscape to ensure the health and safety of our people. “Our investment in medical research reaffirms our commitment to embed research and innovation in the fabric of the nation’s long-term healthcare strategy.”

“By supporting talented scientists and investing in research, we are developing the next generation of innovators in health sciences and paving the way for medical breakthroughs to save lives.” Dr Raja added.

The applications were assessed through a competitive two-stage review process that included independent international peer reviews by experts from the world’s most renowned medical institutions across the globe from USA, Belgium, Norway, Brazil, Japan, Singapore, Italy, India, UK, and Australia. The process was overseen by the Al Jalila Foundation Scientific Advisory Committee which is made up of some of the most brilliant minds in the region. They worked with an international peer review panel to award research grants to the most deserving scientists. The reviewers were handpicked as leading experts in their specific field of research, in line with the commitment from Al Jalila Foundation to grow a biomedical research ecosystem in Dubai built on international best practice.

Out of 91 applications, five were selected to receive grants of up to AED500,000 each.

Dr Abdulkareem Sultan Al Olama, CEO of Al Jalila Foundation, added: “The COVID-19 global outbreak has amplified the need to invest in pioneering medical research. Now, more than ever, we are counting on scientists and doctors coming together to develop better diagnostic testing, treatments, and gain a better understanding of the coronavirus and other viral diseases. We are delighted with the incredible response we have received from the scientific community and confident about the contributions this round of research grants can make to support the fight to combat COVID-19.”

Each research project has strong collaborations with scientists and researchers in the UAE and abroad, with the engagement of over 40 co-investigators from renowned research institutions across the globe. Collectively, the principal investigators have co-authored over 300 peer-reviewed publications in prestigious international journals. The research projects comprise of multidisciplinary teams of clinicians, scientists, and medical students from major academic and health entities in the UAE and abroad, including geneticists, epidemiologists, pediatricians, infectious disease specialists, microbiologists, pulmonologists, and such. They have outstanding expertise and resources to contribute to Al Jalila Foundation’s mission to support the UAE Government in its fight against COVID-19.

Since inception in 2013, Al Jalila Foundation, a member of the Mohammed Bin Rashid Global Initiatives, has provided opportunities to increase innovative and impactful medical research investing AED28 million to award 101 research grants and eight international research fellowships at leading global institutions in the UK, USA and Japan to discover solutions for the region’s biggest health challenges.

Summary of research projects that received grants:

Diagnosis

Dr. Farah Mustafa, from United Arab Emirates University, aims to characterize microRNAs induced during different stages of COVID-19 as biomarkers for better diagnosis, disease prognosis, and development of novel RNA-based therapies against COVID-19.

Genetics

Professor Rabih Halwani, from University of Sharjah, is determining inborn errors of immunity associated with life-threatening COVID-19 infections in previously healthy young individuals.

Dr. Ahmad Abou Tayoun, from Al Jalila Children’s Specialty Hospital, is studying the genetics of COVID-19 in children and young adults in the UAE.

Therapies

Professor Taleb H. Al-Tel, from University of Sharjah, aims to develop novel and nature-inspired therapeutics for the treatment of COVID-19 by inhibiting the proteins and enzymes of the virus that are responsible for host-cells entry and for the replication of the virus inside the human cells.

Dr. Mohammad Ghattas, from Al Ain University, is discovering new drug candidates as potential treatments for COVID-19 via targeting the main protease enzyme (Mpro) of the virus.

His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairperson of the Board of Trustees of Al Jalila Foundation, has recognised a number of donors of Al Jalila Foundation, a member of the Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Global Initiatives, for their significant contributions to the advancement of medical research in the UAE.

The recognition ceremony was attended by HE AbdulRahman bin Mohammed Al Owais, Minister of Health and Prevention; HE Sara Al Amiri, Minister of State for Advanced Technology; HE Humaid Al Qutami, Director General of Dubai Health Authority; and members of the Al Jalila Foundation Board of Trustees, Board of Directors and Management Team.

His Highness Sheikh Ahmed, accompanied by the founding donors, visited the Mohammed Bin Rashid Medical Research Institute, the UAE’s first independent multi-disciplinary biomedical research centre, recently inaugurated by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, which is housed in the Al Jalila Foundation building, an AED300 million facility, located in Dubai Healthcare City.

Since inception in 2013, Al Jalila Foundation has provided opportunities to increase innovative, impactful medical research investing AED25 million to award 95 research grants and eight international research fellowships at world-leading institutions in the UK, USA and Japan to discover solutions for the region’s biggest health challenges. Al Jalila Foundation research grant recipients have garnered 18 national and international awards, five medical breakthroughs and five patents. In April 2020, Al Jalila Foundation expanded its research portfolio in response to the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak with dedicated research grants to address the pandemic and infectious diseases.

In response to the current global health crisis, Al Jalila Foundation is more dedicated than ever to finding the cures of the future through advances in medical research. It has launched a unique giving campaign titled ‘Bassmat Rashid Bin Saeed’, which pays tribute to Sheikh Rashid’s philanthropic legacy and recognises generous donors who invest in medical research. The campaign features a first-of-its-kind donor-recognition wall that gives donors a chance to engrave their name on a tile virtually or live. The wall’s cutting-edge robotics technology makes it possible for donors to make an impact from anywhere at any time.

His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairperson of the Al Jalila Foundation Board of Trustees, said: “Sheikh Rashid’s visionary leadership and philanthropic spirit brought to reality many of the great advancements that transformed Dubai into the modern city it is today. Bassmat Rashid Bin Saeed pays tribute to the legacy of Sheikh Rashid and creates a path for future pioneers to advance medical breakthroughs that could save millions of lives.”

Her Excellency Dr. Raja Easa Al Gurg, Chairperson of the Board of Directors and Member of the Board of Trustees of Al Jalila Foundation, said: “As a young Foundation with great ambitions, our progress made to date reaffirms our commitment to becoming a global leader in medical research. With the right support from philanthropists, corporates, the academic and research fraternity, and the wider community, we are on the right track to cultivate an inspiring research eco-system to propel the UAE to the forefront of medical innovation.”

The Crystals of Hope, a magnificent crystal installation featuring HH Sheikh Mohammed’s profile and the names of the 25 founding donors was unveiled as a tribute to His Highness for championing innovation and research.

Dr. Abdulkareem Sultan Al Olama, Chief Executive Officer of Al Jalila Foundation, said: “Research has the power to advance medical breakthroughs to change the fabric of science as we know it and we salute the researchers, scientists and doctors that are shaping the future of medicine. We are immensely grateful to our founding donors that make it possible for Al Jalila Foundation to continue to break the boundaries of research to transform patients’ lives.”

The donors recognised for their generosity and support included Easa Saleh Al Gurg Charity Foundation, Dr. Rajen Kilachand, Raghuvinder Kataria, AW Rostamani Group, Abdul Rahim Mohammed Belghozooz Al Zarooni, Apparel Group, Amity University, Late Abdulla Hassan Al Rostamani, Union Co-operative Society, Emaar Properties, Dubai Electricity & Water Authority, Aster DM Healthcare, Sobha Group, Malabar Gold and Diamonds, Landmark Group, Faizal & Shabana Kottikollon, Sunny Varkey, Emirates Integrated Telecommunications Company (du), Ahmed Seddiqi Family, Azizi Investments, DUTCO Group, The Abdulghaffar Hussain Foundation, Al Ansari Exchange, Dubai Holding, and Khansaheb Civil Engineering.

His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of UAE and Ruler of Dubai, inaugurated the Mohammed bin Rashid Medical Research Institute, the UAE’s first independent biomedical research centre.

Deputy Ruler of Dubai HH Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum; Chairperson of the Board of Trustees of Al Jalila Foundation HH Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum; Chairman of Dubai’s Supreme Committee of Crisis and Disaster Management Sheikh Mansoor bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum; and Minister of Cabinet Affairs and Secretary General of the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Global Initiatives Mohammed Al Gergawi attended the inauguration.

His Highness toured the facility that seeks to conduct research to address the COVID-19 pandemic and other viral diseases. Established with an initial investment of AED300 million, the Institute is part of the Al Jalila Foundation, an entity under the umbrella of Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Global Initiatives.

During his visit, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum met a group of scientists who presented their research projects. His Highness was briefed on Al Jalila Foundation’s accomplishments and extensive research portfolio.

On the occasion of the inauguration, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum said: “Medical research is an integral part of prevention and medical security in the UAE. Supporting research helps ensure sustainable economic, social and human development. Scientific research has been the main approach of scientists and researchers for many centuries in our region and is key to building a stable and prosperous future.”

“Everyone can access the Institute’s research. The new centre is an important addition to the global network of research institutions. It is part of the UAE’s contribution to biomedical research in the world and its research findings will be shared with other centres,” His Highness said. On the new facility’s contribution to the global scientific research community, he said, “We need specialised centres to conduct research that caters to our environment and responds to the health challenges facing our region.”

The Mohammed bin Rashid Medical Research Institute aims to prepare the next generation of researchers across various specialisations as part of the overarching vision to create an integrated health map and provide the local, regional and global research community with sound, specialised medical research. The state-of-the-art facility seeks to boost medical innovation, accelerate the use of artificial intelligence to monitor new diseases and develop proactive plans to contain outbreaks. By establishing an integrated medical database using big data analysis techniques, the centre strives to support global efforts to find effective treatments and vaccines.

The Mohammed Bin Rashid Medical Research Institute seeks to position the UAE at the forefront of medical innovation regionally. It also provides a platform for researchers and specialists to exchange knowledge and expertise related to global medical developments.

With the COVID-19 pandemic resulting in over 20 million cases and claiming 728,000 lives across the world, there is an urgent need for extensive medical and prevention research. Researchers across the world are working around the clock to find effective ways to contain the virus and decrease its impact on people.

The Mohammed Bin Rashid Medical Research Institute aims to contribute to global efforts against the pandemic by providing advanced equipment and funding to support pioneering research led by scientists, specialists and experts. By supporting talented scientists and investing in ground-breaking research, the Institute will contribute to developing the next generation of innovators in health sciences as well as advancing medical research and innovation for the benefit of the world.

His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairperson of the Board of Trustees of Al Jalila Foundation, said, “The Mohammed Bin Rashid Medical Research Institute will help boost medical innovation and empower the next generation of professional researchers in different biomedical fields. It will support new pharmaceutical and therapeutic innovations that can help advance the country’s healthcare sector. Driven by an unwavering commitment to boost medical research capacities, the new facility, located at the Al Jalila Foundation, embodies Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid’s vision to build a positive future for the region and create a knowledge-based society.”

The Institute seeks to forge local and global partnerships with research institutions specialised in biomedicine and medical innovation as part of its aim to utilise all possible resources and share pioneering research projects with specialists across the world.

The centre supports intellectual property rights for medical research and adheres to the frameworks governing the procedures for registration of internationally-approved patents. It also seeks to promote partnerships to find treatments and vaccines for viral diseases and pandemics and make them available to people across the world.

The Mohammed Bin Rashid Medical Research Institute will use the latest technologies to help develop medical research tools. It will also use immersive and augmented reality technologies for genetic mapping, proactively monitor potential outbreaks using biomarker analysis techniques for individuals and deploy artificial intelligence, algorithms and machine learning to predict disease patterns. The specialised facility will work to improve communication among research sectors and invest in developing research and development talent.

The Institute aims to equip researchers to bridge the medical research gap that currently exists in the region. It also seeks to encourage young researchers to pursue medical and scientific research and motivate institutions and individuals to support research as part of efforts to advance healthcare systems and improve wellbeing in the Arab world.

The Mohammed Bin Rashid Medical Research Institute is the first independent multi-disciplinary biomedical research centre in the UAE with its own board of trustees. It was established with a initial investment of AED300 million focused on equipping specialised researchers and funding scientific projects. The UAE’s first medical research endowment is expected to bring a 4% return on investment amounting to AED10.5 million annually, which will be reinvested in healthcare and research programmes.

His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum’s tour also saw the unveiling of Crystals of Hope, a crystal installation featuring his profile, which pays tribute to His Highness’ role in supporting innovation and research and advancing the country’s healthcare sector. The installation features the names of 25 donors who have invested in medical research.

Al Jalila Foundation, a member of the Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Global Initiatives, announced today that 91 scientists from 26 educational institutions across the UAE have applied for seed grants for research on combating the novel Coronavirus (COVID-19).

In line with its mission to transform lives, the global philanthropic organisation has been supporting talented biomedicine scientists in a number of research areas including cancer, cardiovascular disease and diabetes since its inception in 2013 investing over AED25 million to advance medical research. In April, Al Jalila Foundation expanded its research portfolio in response to the COVID-19 global outbreak.

The sixth seed grant cycle offers research grants of up to AED500,000 to support scientists in conducting 1 to 2-year research projects to investigate the pathology, diagnostics, epidemiology, transmission, therapeutics, and prevention related to COVID-19 with a specific focus on the UAE population and demographics. Applications received support 46 basic, 27 translational, and 18 clinical research projects. The prestigious grants open to UAE Nationals and residents saw applications from scientists of 31 nationalities conducting research at the nation’s most prestigious institutions including Mohamed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences; Khalifa University of Science and Technology; United Arab Emirates University; New York University Abu Dhabi; American University of Sharjah and University of Sharjah.

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 healthcare strategy. By supporting talented scientists and investing in research, we are developing the next generation of innovators in health sciences and paving the way for medical breakthroughs to save lives.”

Dr Abdulkareem Sultan Al Olama, CEO of Al Jalila Foundation, said: “The COVID-19 global outbreak has amplified the need to invest in pioneering medical research. Now, more than ever, we are counting on scientists and doctors coming together to develop better diagnostic testing, treatments, and gain a better understanding of the coronavirus and other viral diseases. We are delighted with the incredible response we have received from the scientific community and confident about what this round of research grants will yield towards supporting the fight to combat the coronavirus.”

The applications are assessed through a stringent independent international peer review process overseen by a Scientific Advisory Committee. The committee is made up of the most brilliant minds in the region who work with the international peer review panel to award research grants to the most deserving scientists.

Professor Yousef Mohamed Abdulrazzaq AlBastaki, Chair of the Scientific Advisory Committee of Al Jalila Foundation, said: “We are very pleased by the great interest in our research grants and the quality of applications received from leading scientists at prestigious institutions across the UAE. Research is vital in building a knowledge-based economy and transforming the healthcare system to be more research oriented, and hence, improving people’s lives with better diagnostics and treatments. We look forward to supporting new ground-breaking research projects that will hopefully lead to medical discoveries and potentially a treatment for COVID-19 and other such viruses.”

Since inception in 2013, Al Jalila Foundation has provided opportunities to increase innovative and impactful medical research investing AED25 million to award 95 research grants and 8 international research fellowships at leading global institutions in the UK, USA and Japan to discover solutions for the region’s biggest health challenges.

The successful applicants will be announced by the end of September 2020 with research commencing in October 2020.

Al Jalila Foundation, a member of the Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Global Initiatives, announced today that applications for its 2020/2021 postgraduate medical international scholarships have opened. As part of the country’s response to the global novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak, the Foundation’s scholarship programme will help prepare a cadre of Emirati healthcare professionals to deal with viral diseases in the future.

With COVID-19 cases increasing quickly around the world and the total number of confirmed cases reaching three million, the outbreak has crippled health systems in many countries, primarily due to a shortage of resources, manpower and equipment. Medical capacity is critical to the success of a nation’s healthcare sector and the UAE has been exemplary in managing the health crisis rapidly.

To help proactively respond to both the local and global COVID-19 pandemic and to bolster the UAE’s capacity to address this pandemic and other viral diseases in the future, Al Jalila Foundation invites UAE Nationals to apply for postgraduate scholarships at world class international universities in a number of medical fields: virology, genetics and genomics, nanotechnology, stem cells, immunology and biomedical data science.

Increasing the availability of infectious disease specialists in-country will support the UAE in its mission to develop the best healthcare system in the world; it will also strengthen the country’s medical research capacity to respond to pandemics and quickly save lives.

Her Excellency Dr Raja Easa Al Gurg, Chairperson of the Board of Directors and Member of the Board of Trustees of Al Jalila Foundation, said: “The medical profession represents one of the most noble and greatest services rendered to mankind. Today with the coronavirus pandemic, we are all witnessing the courage of healthcare workers as they risk their lives to save patients’ lives. Health is the cornerstone of a nation’s longevity, economic development and sustainability and at Al Jalila Foundation we aim to build medical capacity to strengthen the health system to support the government’s efforts in safeguarding human health.”

Since the launch of the scholarship programme, Al Jalila Foundation has awarded 56 scholarships in nursing, dentistry, public health, pharmacy, molecular biology and biotechnology, among others at local institutions and three international scholarships at Harvard Medical School and Boston University. Al Jalila Foundation has invested AED 15.5 million to strengthen the UAE’s medical capabilities and continues to monitor the emerging healthcare needs to respond accordingly.

Dr. Abdulkareem Al Olama, CEO of Al Jalila Foundation, commented: “COVID-19 has highlighted a greater need for highly skilled medical professionals in a number of specialisations to address viral diseases and pandemics. If we look at the global frontrunners in healthcare, what sets them apart are their investments in developing their human capital. We are proud to once again extend financial support to aspiring Emirati healthcare professionals enabling them to specialise and further build the expertise to contribute to the wellbeing of the nation. Not only will our scholarships help to develop capabilities, they will build capacity, continuity and sustainability in the UAE’s healthcare sector. Each stream of graduates will contribute to the country’s quality of healthcare – and, by extension, the quality of life.”

The application deadline for Al Jalila Foundation international scholarships is 7 July 2020. Interested applicants can find more information and application guidelines on Al Jalila Foundation’s website www.aljalilafoundation.ae/scholarships.

Al Jalila Foundation, a member of the Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Global Initiatives, dedicated to transforming lives through medical innovation, today announced that the Ahmed Seddiqi Family donated AED 10 million to advance local medical research focused on coronavirus and other viral diseases affecting mankind.

While the world is still coming to terms with the novel coronavirus COVID-19 global outbreak there has never been a greater need for life saving treatment and medical breakthroughs that could end the pandemic and save millions of lives. Since its inception in 2013, Al Jalila Foundation has invested over AED 25 million to advance medical research in the UAE and now aims to extend its research portfolio to address the current COVID-19 global health crisis.

Abdul Hamied Ahmed Seddiqi, Vice Chairman, Seddiqi Holding, said: “The world is going through a very challenging time and we salute the healthcare workers on the frontlines working tirelessly to save lives. We have been working closely with Al Jalila Foundation over the years and we are honoured to support the organisation’s mission to advance medical research in the UAE. It is our national duty to safeguard the health and safety of our people and continue to uphold the values of philanthropy, compassion and service to humanity instilled by our forefathers.”

Dr Abdulkareem Sultan Al Olama, CEO of Al Jalila Foundation, said: “As the UAE looks toward the next 50 years we are inspired by the great strides we are taking in medical innovation and the advancement of science and research. We are extremely grateful for this significant donation from the Ahmed Seddiqi Family who, like us, believe that investing in medical research is critical to the longevity and sustainability of future generations. The world has changed significantly and as we go through this critical phase we are depending on science to save lives. Now more than ever we are counting on scientists and doctors coming together to develop better diagnostic testing, treatments, and gain a better understanding of SARS-CoV-2 biology to combat the disease.”

Since its inception in 2013, Al Jalila Foundation has lead opportunities to increase innovative and impactful medical research investing AED 25 million to award 95 research grants and 8 international research fellowships to discover solutions for the region’s biggest health challenges: cancer, cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, obesity and mental health. In line with the vision to position the UAE at the forefront of medical innovation, the Foundation has established the first independent multi-disciplinary biomedical research institute with an investment of AED 200 million solely funded by philanthropic partners.

Her Excellency Dr Raja Easa Al Gurg, Chairperson of the Board of Directors and Member of the Board of Trustees of Al Jalila Foundation, said: “This pandemic has united the world like never before. Now more than ever, scientists around the world continue to search for answers into the causes, prevention and treatment of diseases affecting mankind with the coronavirus taking centre stage. 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. Medical research has the potential to save lives and our efforts today will pave the way for a healthier world for future generations.”

As a non-profit organisation Al Jalila Foundation relies on the support of its partners and donations are invested in healthcare programs to transform patients’ lives. In February, Al Jalila Foundation launched ‘Bassmat Rashid Bin Saeed’ to lead the march for pioneering medical research to address the healthcare needs in the UAE. Dedicated to the late Sheikh Rashid Bin Saeed Al Maktoum the campaign honours his philanthropic spirit and aims to continue his legacy to improve humanity. Bassmat, ‘fingerprint’ in Arabic, signifies the power donors have to leave their distinctive mark on the future of medicine through this unique fundraising campaign with the first-of-its-kind donor recognition wall.

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. For more information on how to be a part of Bassmat Rashid Bin Saeed please visit www.aljalilafoundation.ae/bassmat.

Al Jalila Foundation, a member of the Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Global Initiatives, announced today that application for its sixth cycle of seed grants has opened in response to the novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) global outbreak to help develop the UAE capacity to address this pandemic and other viral diseases in the future. In line with its mission to transform lives, the global philanthropic organisation has been supporting talented biomedicine scientists in a number of research areas including cancer, cardiovascular disease and diabetes since its inception in 2013 investing over AED 25 million to advance medical research in the UAE.

Researchers are invited to apply for seed grants of up to AED 500,000 over a 1 to 2 year period to investigate the pathology, diagnostics, epidemiology, transmission, therapeutics, and/or prevention related to the Coronavirus (COVID-19) specific to the UAE population and demographics. The seed grants support basic, translational, or clinical research projects (excludes research that requires clinical trials). The grants are available to UAE Nationals and residents of the UAE provided the research is conducted locally. Applicants should hold positions at local universities, research or clinical institutions in the UAE.

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: “Scientists around the world continue to search for answers into the causes, prevention and treatment of diseases affecting mankind. Our investment in medical research reaffirms our commitment to embed research and innovation in the fabric of the nation’s long-term healthcare strategy. Medical research has the potential to save lives and our efforts today will pave the way for a healthier world for future generations.”

Dr Abdulkareem Sultan Al Olama, CEO of Al Jalila Foundation, added: “As we come to terms with COVID-19 global outbreak there has never been a greater need for life saving treatment and medical breakthroughs that could end the pandemic and save millions of lives.  Now more than ever we are counting on scientists and doctors coming together to develop better diagnostic testing, treatments, and gain a better understanding of COVID-19 and other viral diseases. Al Jalila Foundation is dedicated to advancing medical research to transform lives. We are more determined than ever in our mission and count on you, our partners, to help us pave the way for a healthier, brighter future for all.”

The applications are assessed through a stringent independent international peer review process overseen by a Scientific Advisory Committee. The committee is made up of the most brilliant minds in the region who work with the international peer review panel to award research grants to the most deserving scientists.

Professor Yousef Mohamed Abdulrazzaq AlBastaki, Chair of the Scientific Advisory Committee of Al Jalila Foundation, said: “Research plays an important role in improving the quality of the UAE’s medical sector. It is very important in building a knowledge based economy, and transforming the healthcare system to be more research oriented, and hence, improving people’s lives with better diagnostics and treatments. As we launch the sixth cycle of research grants, we look forward to supporting ground-breaking research projects that will lead to life-changing discoveries.”

Since inception in 2013, Al Jalila Foundation has provided opportunities to increase innovative and impactful medical research investing AED 25 million to award 95 research grants and 8 international research fellowships at global leading 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 has established the first independent multi-disciplinary biomedical research institute with an investment of AED 200 million solely funded by philanthropic partners.

With this investment the Foundation has brought together 350 scientists from around the world to further boost scientific medical research in the UAE. The grants have created training opportunities for more than 400 young students and post-doctoral associates and contributed to 245 publications in a number of international scientific journals.

By supporting talented scientists, Al Jalila Foundation is building on its mission to transform lives by paving the way and developing the next generation of innovators in health sciences.

The application deadline for the seed grants is 9 June 2020 and successful applicants will be announced by the end of September 2020. For more information and application details please visit Al Jalila Foundation website: www.aljalilafoundation.ae/research

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 ‘Bassmat Rashid Bin Saeed’ to advance local medical research in the UAE. Dedicated to the late Sheikh Rashid Bin Saeed Al Maktoum the campaign honours Sheikh Rashid’s philanthropic spirit and aims to continue his legacy to improve humanity. Bassmat, ‘fingerprint’ in Arabic, signifies the power donors have to leave their distinctive mark on the future of medicine through this unique fundraising campaign with the first-of-its-kind donor recognition wall.

Since inception in 2013, Al Jalila Foundation has lead opportunities to increase innovative and impactful medical research investing AED 25 million to award 95 research grants and 8 international research fellowships to discover solutions for the region’s biggest health challenges: cancer, cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, obesity and mental health. In line with the vision to position the UAE at the forefront of medical innovation, the Foundation has established the first independent multi-disciplinary biomedical research institute with an investment of AED 200 million solely funded by philanthropic partners.

His Highness Sheikh Ahmed Bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairperson of Al Jalila Foundation Board of Trustees, said “Sheikh Rashid’s visionary leadership and philanthropic spirit brought to reality many of the great advancements that transformed Dubai into the modern city it is today. Bassmat Rashid Bin Saeed pays tribute to the legacy of Sheikh Rashid and creates a path for future pioneers to advance medical breakthroughs that could save millions of lives.”

Al Jalila Foundation recently organised a panel discussion bringing together key industry leaders to share their perspectives on the importance of investing in the UAE’s medical research landscape.

Her Excellency Dr Raja Easa Al Gurg, Chairperson of the Board of Directors and Member of the Board of Trustees of Al Jalila Foundation, said: “As a young Foundation with great ambitions our progress made to date reaffirms our commitment to becoming a leader in medical research. With the right support from philanthropists, corporates, the academic and research fraternity, and the wider community we are on the right track to cultivate an inspiring research eco-system to propel the UAE to the forefront of medical innovation.”

Professor Alawi Alsheikh-Ali, Provost and Dean of the College of Medicine at Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences, said: “Scientific research is an integrated eco-system with key elements and requirements. In the UAE, several elements are available, such as universities that focus on scientific research, foundations that support research such as Al Jalila Foundation, the UAE Government’s strategic drive towards a knowledge-based economy, the appointment of a Minister of State for Advanced Sciences, and the establishment of the UAE Council of Scientists. These are all government initiatives that will enhance the UAE’s ability to establish a thriving research eco-system.”

Dr Rajen Kilachand a renowned philanthropist commented on the importance of leaving the world a better place and a legacy for generations: “Al Jalila Foundation has been visionary in establishing a research facility undertaking ground breaking research in the UAE. This will, in a few years’ time, undoubtedly become a world class medical complex which has developed from within the country and perhaps the entire MENA region. It is an organisation funded entirely by donors and the results of these philanthropic donations are without a doubt beyond calculation. To have my name associated with an institute in this field in the country I have made my home, gives me great pleasure and happiness.”

As a non-profit organisation Al Jalila Foundation relies on the support of its partners and donations are invested in healthcare programs to transform patients’ lives. For more information on how to be a part of Bassmat Rashid Bin Saeed please visit www.aljalilafoundation.ae/bassmat.

Al Jalila Foundation, a member of the Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Global Initiatives, dedicated to transforming lives through medical innovation, celebrated the graduation of the 20th cohort of Ta’alouf Parents Training program marking 834 graduates since the launch of the program in 2013 reaffirming its commitment to children of determination.

The graduation coincides with the 6th anniversary of Ta’alouf which has been offered in 4 Emirates with over 39 nationalities participating in the program. Since 2013, with the support of partners and donors, Al Jalila Foundation has invested AED 6 million to provide parents with the knowledge and power to broaden the horizons of children of determination enabling them to reach their full potential and realise their dreams.

Dr Abdulkareem Sultan Al Olama, Chief Executive Officer of Al Jalila Foundation, said: “The completion of the 20th cohort in Ras Al Khaimah signifies a key milestone in our commitment to an inclusive society where parents, educators, strategic partners and the wider community work together to empower children of determination. At the heart of Ta’alouf is social inclusion and we will continue to champion it in our classrooms, our playgrounds and our communities so that every child, no matter their ability, has the opportunity to shine. It is heartwarming to hear testimonies how ‘life-changing’ the program has been and that it continues to assist parents in bringing out the best in their special children.”

Ta’alouf began with an inaugural class of 55 parents devoted to better understanding their children and now boasts hundreds of graduates. This cohort is the 5th in partnership with Zayed Higher Organization for People of Determination which has expanded Al Jalila Foundation’s reach to more families throughout the Emirates.

His Excellency Abdullah Al-Humaidan, Secretary-General of Zayed Higher Organization for People of Determination, said: “Under the directives and leadership of His Highness Sheikh Khalid Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Chairman of the Zayed Higher Organization for People of Determination, the Ta’alouf program in partnership with Al Jalila Foundation has expanded to Abu Dhabi, Dubai and Northern Emirates with 252 parents and families benefiting. We would like to thank Al Jalila Foundation for giving us the opportunity to implement this inspiring program and transforming lives of parents of children of determination.”

Al Jalila Foundation works with partners to offer the Ta’alouf program which benefits a huge cross-section of the community, including families living with Autism, Down Syndrome and other developmental delays. The 20th cohort in Ras Al Khaimah is sponsored by RAKBANK.

Commenting on the Ta’alouf program, Peter England, CEO of RAKBANK said: “In line with RAKBANK’s values of social inclusion, the Bank is proud to support Ta’alouf, which aims to equip parents of children of determination with life-changing skills to nurture their children. It is a privilege to partner with Al Jalila Foundation to deliver the 20th parents training cohort in Ras Al Khaimah, enhancing knowledge and cultivating skills to achieve their children’s full potential and realize their dreams and aspirations. At RAKBANK, we believe that our long-term success as a national bank lies in growing people’s trust in us by increasing our social responsibility towards our community.”

Following the success of the parents training program and positive impact on families, in 2014 Ta’alouf expanded to include teachers as a central influence in children’s formative years. The Ta’alouf Teachers Training program, in partnership with Zayed University, has graduated 343 teachers from 71 schools in the UAE. Al Jalila Foundation continues to champion children of determination with the 6th Teachers Training cohort commencing on 5 November 2019.