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Dubai Health and Dubai Future District Fund (DFDF) announced the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) that sets the foundation for a collaboration to advance Dubai’s global position in the HealthTech sector.

Aligned with Dubai’s D33 Economic Agenda, this strategic partnership aims to build a HealthTech and TechBio ecosystem anchored in Dubai by accelerating the success of high-impact ventures and advancing innovation across Biotech, digital health, AI diagnostics, drug discovery, robotics, medical devices and personalized medicine. By coordinating resources and expertise across public and private sectors, Dubai Health and DFDF will work together to generate globally relevant clinical and commercial evidence.

The MoU was signed by Atif Al Braiki, Chief Digital and AI Officer at Dubai Health, and Nader Albastaki, Managing Director at Dubai Future District Fund.

Dubai is uniquely positioned to become a global launchpad for HealthCare Innovation,” said Nader Albastaki. “By partnering with Dubai Health, we are laying the groundwork for a sustainable, innovation-driven health economy. One that not only meets the needs of the region but also shapes the future of healthcare globally.”

“This collaboration marks an important step in strengthening healthcare innovation in Dubai,” said Atif Al Braiki. “Our goal is to create an environment where emerging technologies and startups can scale and grow. Together with DFDF, we are committed to advancing health for humanity and further positioning Dubai as a global hub for HealthTech innovation.” 

By leveraging academic research and translational opportunities to drive meaningful outcomes, the collaboration seeks to align innovation with healthcare needs, support knowledge transfer and intellectual property development, and foster a thriving ecosystem that advances health innovation and delivers tangible benefits for patients and the wider community. 
 

Dubai Health has inaugurated the Pediatric Cardiac Intensive Care Unit (CICU) at Al Jalila Children’s Hospital. Established through Al Jalila Foundation’s The Hope Fund, the unit was developed with the generous support of Mr. Mohammed Abdullah Saleh, whose name is inscribed on the hospital’s Giving Wall. 

The inauguration was attended by His Excellency Dr. Amer Sharif, CEO of Dubai Health and President of Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences (MBRU); Dr. Abdulla Al Khayat, CEO Emeritus of Al Jalila Children’s Hospital; Dr. Amer Al Zarooni, CEO of Al Jalila Foundation; Dr. Tarek Fathey, Chief Clinical Officer, and Dr. Mohamed Al Awadhi, Executive Director of the Women and Children’s Campus. 

The Pediatric Cardiology service at Al Jalila Children’s Hospital performs around 200 pediatric cardiac surgeries annually, in addition to more than 300 cardiac catheterizations procedures, reinforcing Dubai Health’s ability to deliver comprehensive, specialized care for various cardiac conditions. 

The new unit reflects Dubai Health’s “Children First” commitment by advancing pediatric cardiac care. Aligned with a patient- and family-centered model, the unit also enables parents to remain close to their children, with comfortable beds provided beside each patient bed and a dedicated family area offering a welcoming space for relatives. 

Mr. Mohammed Abdullah Saleh said: “Supporting children’s health is an investment in the wellbeing of future generations. We are honored to contribute to this unit, as community partnerships play an important role in expanding specialized services and ensuring patients receive the care they need. We hope this initiative will support Al Jalila Children’s Hospital in continuing to make a meaningful difference in the lives of young patients and their families.” 

Dr. Amer Al Zarooni, said: “At Al Jalila Foundation, we continue to work closely with our partners to launch and implement programs and initiatives that make a meaningful difference.  
These efforts contribute to supporting the healthcare ecosystem and expanding access to advanced care, ultimately improving health outcomes and quality of life for our patients and the wider community.” 

Delivering advanced, multidisciplinary care
Dr. Mohamed Al Awadhi, said: “The addition of the ten-bed Pediatric Cardiac Intensive Care Unit further strengthens the continuum of cardiac care available to children at Al Jalila Children’s Hospital. By bringing together specialized expertise and advanced clinical capabilities, we are able to provide comprehensive care for children while supporting families throughout their journey." 

The Hope Fund 
Launched by Al Jalila Foundation, The Hope Fund is a flagship initiative that supports the development of Dubai Health facilities and expands access to advanced services that meet the evolving needs of the community. Through the contributions of partners, the Fund enables sustainable impact that strengthens Dubai’s healthcare system and improves patient outcomes.

Dubai Health and Queensland University of Technology (QUT), in collaboration with Siemens Healthineers and ArmHub, have successfully concluded “Healthcare Innovation and Sustainability Week”, bringing together healthcare professionals, academics, students, and industry leaders from Brisbane and Dubai, reflecting a shared commitment to advancing sustainability in academic health systems through applied innovation and international knowledge exchange.

Over two weeks, participants explored how technology-enabled care models, digital health, design thinking, and sustainability principles can be embedded into clinical practice.
The first week in Brisbane immersed Dubai Health professionals in Australia's academic healthcare ecosystem through symposium sessions and site visits to leading innovation facilities, including the Translational Research Institute (TRI), the Wesley Hospital, and the Gold Coast Health and Knowledge Precinct. As the industry partner for the Australia component, the ARM Hub demonstrated how robotics, automation, AI, and advanced manufacturing capabilities can support more sustainable healthcare delivery models.

The second week in Dubai shifted focus to collaborative solution development through two parallel streams. As program co-designers, Siemens Healthineers co-led the workshops, contributing specialist expertise in healthcare technology and sustainability leveraging both local and global expetise. The co-designed program between Dubai Health and Siemens Healthineers guided teams through hands-on prototyping and refinement, ensuring that ideas were grounded in practical, scalable applications.

Professor Cori Stewart, Founder and CEO of the Advanced Robotics for Manufacturing (ARM) Hub, Queensland University of Technology, said, “With Dubai Health, we shared how we’re getting science out of the lab and into hospitals—using robotics, automation and AI to improve care and reduce bed pressure. Brisbane company “Microbio” was a great example showcased: by integrating data and AI, they’ve cut sepsis detection time from 24 hours to just 3.”

Healthcare professionals worked on advancing sustainable approaches within academic health systems using design-led methodologies. Simultaneously, students from four UAE universities; Rochester Institute of Technology Dubai, Dubai Institute of Design and Innovation, American University of Sharjah, and Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences, the learning and discovery arm of Dubai Health, took part in the Design4Change Bootcamp to develop sustainable, patient-centered solutions.

Dr. Yacine Hadjiat, Director of The Center for Innovation and Technology at Dubai Health, emphasized the importance of cross-sector collaboration: "We are extremely grateful to Queensland University of Technology, ARM Hub, and our program co-designer Siemens Healthineers for their partnership and commitment throughout this program. By connecting clinicians, academics, students, and industry around shared priorities, we create a stronger pathway for innovations to be refined, tested, and scaled. This program demonstrates the value of international academic health system collaboration in creating a pipeline of sustainably focused solutions that strengthen care quality and deliver meaningful impact for patients and their families."

Eng. Razan Daoud, Enterprise Services Europe, Middle East and Africa, Business Development Manager at Siemens Healthineers, reflected on the company's deep engagement: "As an end to end healthcare solutions company, innovation is at the heart of Siemens Healthineers, and it is grounded in our purpose: 'We pioneer breakthroughs in healthcare. For everyone. Everywhere. Sustainably.' 
She added: “This bootcamp is a powerful example of what becomes possible when an Integrated Academic Health System, a leading university, and industry come together to co-create. We are proud to support the growth of Dubai Health by helping turn bold ideas into practical, scalable solutions advancing technology-enabled care models, strengthening sustainability, and ultimately improving outcomes and experiences for patients and healthcare professionals. Most importantly, our participation reflects a long-term commitment: to keep building, with Dubai Health, a pipeline of breakthrough innovation that benefits communities today and strengthens healthcare for generations to come."

Dubai Health, in collaboration with Community Development Authority, and Dubai Health Authority, has announced the launch of the ‘Itma’en’ service, which means ‘rest assured’, making mental health support freely accessible to citizens, residents, and visitors. This joint initiative reinforces Dubai’s vision of placing health and wellbeing at the heart of its priorities and reflects its commitment to developing an integrated mental health system that elevates quality of life across the community.
The service is part of ongoing efforts to expand access to mental wellbeing services and foster a healthier community.   
The ‘Itma’en’ service offers confidential mental wellbeing guidance through a dedicated hotline (800506), providing a safe and welcoming space for individuals to consult experts and seek reassurance whenever they need it. A team of specialists is available to listen, provide professional guidance, and help foster greater awareness and understanding of mental wellbeing across the community.
This initiative embodies Dubai’s approach to developing integrated human-centred services that advance quality of life through a broad network of health and community programmes rooted in the belief that human wellbeing is the foundation of a thriving society. It also supports the objectives of Dubai Social Agenda 33, which aims to strengthen a comprehensive social framework that provides protection, care, and empowerment for all members of society, while advancing a healthcare system in line with global best practices.
Her Excellency Hessa bint Essa Buhumaid, Director General of Community Development Authority (CDA) in Dubai, affirmed that the launch of the mental wellbeing support hotline reflects the Authority’s commitment, together with its partners, to strengthening Dubai’s social care system. The initiative aims to provide specialised support channels that assist families and individuals in dealing with various emotional challenges, contributing to community stability and improved quality of life.
Her Excellency said: “Promoting mental wellness of individuals and families is a fundamental priority within Dubai’s social development framework, given its direct impact on community wellbeing and quality of life. Through this hotline, delivered in collaboration with our partners in the health sector, we aim to provide a safe space for every member of society to express their feelings and receive the professional support they need, strengthening social cohesion and fostering a culture of seeking help when needed.”


Proactive healthcare framework
His Excellency Dr. Alawi Alsheikh-Ali, Director General of Dubai Health Authority, emphasised that the initiative reflects Dubai’s unwavering commitment to advancing community health and wellbeing. He noted that it also embodies the city’s approach to building a flexible and proactive healthcare system that places people at its centre, while ensuring access to mental health guidance and counselling as a key pillar of public health and quality of life.
He explained that the initiative also reflects the Dubai Government’s approach to integrating efforts and collaboration among government entities to strengthen mental health services. By enabling community members to access timely guidance and care, the initiative contributes to building a healthier and happier society.
Dr. Amer Sharif, CEO of Dubai Health and President of Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences (MBRU), said: “Guided by the vision of our leadership, the 
Itma’en service reflects Dubai’s renewed commitment to ensuring that mental wellbeing is supported by the same care and attention as physical health. By working together with government entities, we are creating accessible channels for individuals to seek guidance with confidence and privacy, helping build healthier communities.” 
He added: “I extend my sincere appreciation to our partners at the Community Development Authority (CDA) in Dubai and the Dubai Health Authority for their collaboration in launching this initiative. At Dubai Health, we remain committed to advancing health for humanity and strengthening community wellbeing through specialised digital and community programmes in line with our ‘Patient First’ promise.”


Comprehensive services
The Itma’en service targets all age groups and is provided free of charge in Arabic and English, operating daily from 9:00 am to midnight. Callers can speak directly with specialised counsellors to receive  guidance and reassurance, while cases requiring medical follow-up are referred to the appropriate specialised teams for evaluation and further care.
 

Dubai Health has announced a 46% increase in kidney transplant procedures in 2025, reflecting growing community awareness of organ donation. The procedures were carried out as part of The National Programme for Donation and Transplantation of Human Organs and Tissue ‘Hayat’. 
The announcement coincides with World Kidney Day, observed annually on 12 March. According to the latest figures, Dubai Health physicians performed 73 successful kidney transplants in 2025, compared with 50 procedures in 2024. 
Through its integrated academic health system, Dubai Health supports organ transplantation efforts in collaboration with several federal, local, and private entities, including the Ministry of Health and Prevention (MoHAP), Dubai Health Authority, Dubai Healthcare City Authority, Dubai Airports, Dubai Corporation for Ambulance Services (DCAS), the General Directorate of Identity and Foreigners Affairs in Dubai, Dubai Customs, Dubai Police General Headquarters, Dubai Public Prosecution, Mediclinic City Hospital, as well as several private sector hospitals. This collaboration reflects a coordinated national effort to strengthen organ donation and transplantation programmes across the UAE.
Dr. Mohamed Al Awadhi, Executive Director of the Dubai Health Women and Children's Campus, and Chair of the Dubai Health Organ Donation and Transplantation Committee, said: “The increase in kidney transplant procedures during 2025 reflects the UAE’s continued progress in driving awareness of organ donation, supported by the national efforts led by The National Programme for Donation and Transplantation of Human Organs and Tissue ‘Hayat’, and the effective collaboration among healthcare entities across the country.”
He added: “At Dubai Health, we operate through an integrated academic health system that brings together care, learning, discovery, and giving. This approach enables us to advance organ transplant programmes in line with the highest international medical standards, while also developing specialised medical professionals and strengthening coordination with healthcare entities and strategic partners to expand transplant services and improve patient access to essential treatments.”
Nujood AlKhloofi, Senior Director of the Organ Donation and Transplantation Program at Dubai Health, said: “The continued growth of Dubai’s kidney transplant programme reflects the success of national efforts to promote organ donation and transplantation in the UAE, helping save the lives of many patients and improving their quality of life.”
She added: “As part of Dubai Health’s commitment to supporting organ donation initiatives, qualified coordinators have been assigned to manage the donation process and ensure procedures are conducted efficiently. Their capabilities have also been strengthened through hands-on training programmes, in addition to participation in conferences and workshops.”
Supporting Patients 
Maha Al Taher, Clinical Transplant Coordinator at Dubai Health, explained that the work of transplant coordinators combines both clinical expertise and compassionate patient support. Coordinators stay with patients and their families throughout the treatment journey, manage medical records, and coordinate with medical teams. This ensures that required evaluations, tests, and appointments are completed seamlessly, enabling patients to be placed on transplant waiting lists in accordance with the highest standards of safety.
Dhai Abdulla Binjarn, Clinical Transplant Coordinator at Dubai Health, said that the transplant coordinator’s role begins with identifying eligible cases and providing initial awareness and counselling to the patients and families. This is then followed by medical, social, and financial assessments, ensuring comprehensive support through every step of the journey.
Abdalazeez Alghraizat, Clinical Pediatric Transplant Coordinator at Dubai Health, emphasised that the coordinator plays a critical role in paediatric transplant care by closely monitoring children’s medical conditions, coordinating with the clinical teams, and supporting families. 
Community Initiatives
Through its community initiatives, Al Jalila Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Dubai Health, supports the kidney transplant programme by providing financial assistance to patients who cannot afford treatment. The Foundation launched the ‘Your Donation Saves Lives’ programme, which drives funding for transplants, alongside several care programmes.
Educational Programmes
The Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences (MBRU), the learning and discovery arm of Dubai Health, contributes to advancing organ transplantation through specialised education and training programmes that equip medical professionals with the relevant expertise. These include the Adult Nephrology Fellowship Program and a training programme on ‘Core Skills in Organ Donation’. The University is also conducting scientific studies and research to further advance best practices in organ transplantation.

His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman of the Board of Directors of Dubai Health, honoured partners and donors supporting The Hope Fund projects, an initiative by Al Jalila Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Dubai Health. Held in the presence of His Highness Sheikh Mansoor bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice Chairman of the Board of Directors of Dubai Health, the ceremony celebrated donors whose contributions enhanced medical treatment programmes and services at Dubai Hospital. 

Contributions received under The Hope Fund have supported medical facility readiness and improved patient experiences while highlighting the UAE’s enduring humanitarian values and commitment to social responsibility. 

Sustainable impact 

Launched by Al Jalila Foundation, The Hope Fund is a flagship initiative that supports the development of Dubai Health facilities and expands access to advanced medical services aligned with community needs. Partner contributions have played a central role in delivering sustainable impact and reinforcing Dubai’s commitment to healthcare excellence. 

The event was attended by His Excellency Mohammed Ibrahim Al Shaibani, Director General of HH The Dubai Ruler’s Court and Chairman of DIB; Her Excellency Dr. Raja Easa Al Gurg, Chairperson of Al Jalila Foundation’s Board of Directors and Member of the Dubai Health Board of Directors; His Excellency Dr. Alawi Alsheikh-Ali, Director General of the Dubai Health Authority; His Excellency Dr. Amer Sharif, CEO of Dubai Health and President of Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences (MBRU); and Dr. Amer Al Zarooni, CEO of Al Jalila Foundation; alongside partners and donors whose names are inscribed on Dubai Hospital’s Giving Wall. 

Strategic partnerships 

His Excellency Mohammed Ibrahim Al Shaibani said that Dubai Islamic Bank’s support for the Heart Care Pavilion at Dubai Hospital, delivered through a strategic partnership with Al Jalila Foundation, reflects the bank’s institutional commitment to social responsibility and long-term community value. Such partnerships provide an effective model for aligning national efforts and directing support towards priorities that strengthen specialised healthcare capacity while enhancing quality of life and community wellbeing. The Pavilion includes 29 rooms with a total capacity of 42 beds, providing integrated services in cardiology and cardiac surgery. 

Her Excellency Dr. Raja Easa Al Gurg said that the development of new departments and wards at Dubai Hospital reflects the power of giving and its capacity to foster a culture of social responsibility within the community. She noted that partnerships with individuals and institutional donors remain a key driver in enabling the healthcare system to evolve in line with international best practices and future demand. 

Shared purpose

Her Excellency Dr. Amina Al Rostamani, Board Member of the AW Rostamani Group and Member of Al Jalila Foundation’s Board of Directors, said: “We believe that uniting efforts  around a shared purpose can drive lasting impact in healthcare, reflecting Al Jalila Foundation’s mission to embed a spirit of giving that supports better health outcomes.”  

Farid Al Mulla, CEO of Emirates Islamic, said: “We are proud of our role as a strategic partner in supporting Al Jalila Foundation’s humanitarian initiatives. Our contribution to the renovation of Dubai Hospital facilities reflects our commitment to corporate social responsibility and humanitarian values that define our community. We remain committed to supporting healthcare services, helping provide an advanced care environment.” 

Emirates Islamic contributed to the development of two inpatient care wards at the hospital. The first includes 16 rooms offering a capacity of 18 beds, while the second includes 30 rooms with a total of 38 beds, expanding capacity and supporting the quality of patient care. 

Khalaf Ahmed Al Habtoor, CEO of Al Habtoor Motors, said: “Our support for Al Jalila Foundation reflects our commitment to supporting the healthcare sector in the UAE and to elevating healthcare standards and serving patients in need. We are also proud that our contribution was made through the Mohammed Khalifa Al Suwaidi Fund in honour of his legacy.” 

The financial pledge included the renovation of the Kidney Care Pavilion, which features 15 single rooms and 13 shared rooms, with a total capacity of 41 beds, providing specialised services in nephrology and urology. 

Dr. Omar Al Marzouqi, Executive Director of Dubai Hospital, stated that the support provided by partners and donors will directly contribute to advancing the hospital’s clinical care system by providing an integrated environment that supports patient safety and accelerates the treatment journey, improving health outcomes and elevating the patient experience across every stage of care.