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As UAE Innovates 2025 marks a decade of innovation, Dubai Health has launched a series of initiatives that bring together global expertise, interdisciplinary collaboration, and the latest technologies to enhance patient care. These initiatives reinforce Dubai Health’s commitment to care, learning, and discovery by equipping students and healthcare professionals with the knowledge and skills to drive innovation.

Under Dubai Health’s Learning mission, the Design4Health Bootcamp is designed to empower the next generation of healthcare innovators. This intensive three-day program, hosted by Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences, invites students from medicine, bioengineering, computer science, and design backgrounds to develop transformative solutions that enhance patient experiences within Dubai Health. Under the mentorship of global experts, these students will apply design-thinking methodologies to prototype and test their healthcare innovations. This bootcamp was organized with the American University of Sharjah (AUS), the Dubai Institute of Design and Innovation (DIDI), the Digital Health & Care Innovation Centre in Scotland, and the Rochester Institute of Technology.

Hani Asfour, Vice President of Innovation and Institutional Partnerships at DIDI, commented on the Bootcamp, “The Design4Health Bootcamp demonstrates how design thinking can be a powerful tool for innovation across disciplines. By bringing together students from medicine, bioengineering, computer science, and design, this initiative fosters creativity, collaboration, and problem-solving—key elements in developing impactful solutions for complex challenges. At DIDI, we believe that interdisciplinary approaches like this are essential in shaping the future of innovation.”

In addition to the bootcamp, Dubai Health is leveraging digital health and human-centered design to enhance patient experiences. A design-thinking workshop will equip primary care clinicians specializing in mental health with problem-solving methods and technology-driven approaches. Separately, a 48-hour AI hackathon will unite radiologists from Rashid Hospital with computer scientists to develop AI-powered stroke imaging solutions, enhancing diagnostic accuracy and efficiency in collaboration with IBM.

Microsoft will enhance AI literacy with a Promptathon powered by Copilot, which will equip participants with the skills to integrate AI-assisted tools into their work.

Moira Mackenzie, the Deputy Chief Executive of Scotland’s Digital Health & Care Innovation Centre commented, “DHI’s exciting collaboration with Dubai Health demonstrates how innovation, learning, and technology can transform healthcare. We are combining global expertise with local leadership and skills to deliver meaningful improvements in patient care.”

Driving Healthcare Innovation with the Center for Technology and Innovation

Further cementing its leadership in healthcare innovation, Dubai Health is proud to announce the establishment of the Center for Technology and Innovation. Set to open later this year, this space will be dedicated to transforming research, ideas, and emerging technologies into real-world healthcare solutions that improve patient care and outcomes.

Dr. Yacine Hadijat, Head of Innovation and Digital Health at Dubai Health, stated: “At Dubai Health, we believe that multidisciplinary collaboration is fundamental to driving innovation. We are deeply grateful to our partners for their invaluable contributions during UAE Innovates 2025. By uniting healthcare professionals, engineers, designers, researchers, and industry leaders, we leverage diverse expertise to develop new solutions that enhance the patient experience and improve health outcomes. These events also provide an opportunity to empower the next generation of innovators with the skills and insights needed to drive these advancements further. As we prepare to launch the Center for Technology and Innovation, we look forward to further strengthening these partnerships in support of Dubai Health’s vision to advance health for humanity.”

As Dubai hosts the sixth edition of DUBAI GAMES, a globally recognized community sporting event, Dubai Health has implemented a comprehensive medical readiness plan to ensure the health and safety of all participating athletes, organisers, and spectators. The initiative, carried out in collaboration with the Dubai Events Security Committee, underscores Dubai Health’s commitment to providing healthcare services and ensuring medical preparedness for major events in the city.

Held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence of the UAE, and Chairman of The Executive Council of Dubai, DUBAI GAMES has established itself as a prominent international sporting event.

This year’s edition introduces a new identity, serving as an inspiring platform to promote healthy lifestyles and team spirit. This competition will feature 244 teams including: 84 teams in Battle of the Government Men; 26 teams in Battle of the Government Women; 28 teams in Battle of the Community; and 50 teams in Battle of the Cities.

Khalifa Baqer, Chief Operating Officer at Dubai Health, emphasized the commitment to ensuring seamless medical support, saying: “At Dubai Health, we are dedicated to deploying all necessary medical resources to ensure safety at the major events across the city. In collaboration with our partners at the Dubai Events Security Committee, our priority is to ensure that high-quality healthcare services are readily accessible, creating a safe and supportive environment for all attendees.”

Dr. Ahad Shaheen, Director of Events and Community Services at Dubai Health, highlighted: “Dubai Health has established a fully equipped field clinic at Dubai Festival City, staffed by a team of 40 medical teams and nurses specializing in emergency medicine and general healthcare, alongside a 10 member administrative team supporting operations. The clinic will provide comprehensive medical care throughout the four-day event from February 20 to 23.

She added: “Dubai Health has enhanced its rapid response capabilities in coordination with the Dubai Corporation for Ambulance Services, ensuring preparedness across hospitals to accommodate any additional medical needs if required and uphold the highest standards of safety.”

Battle of the Juniors

In addition to supporting the main event, Dubai Health provided medical services for the Battle of the Juniors category. A specialized field clinic staffed by pediatricians from Al Jalila Children’s and emergency physicians from Rashid Hospital, was set up to support over 390 young athletes competing in 56 teams. A dedicated team of nursing professionals were also on hand to ensure the highest standards of care.

• Meeting emphasises the importance of global partnerships in advancing medical education and enhancing the healthcare sector 
• Ahmed bin Saeed: Dubai Health’s achievements reflect our commitment to positioning Dubai as a global healthcare hub.
• Mansoor bin Mohammed: Academic and scientific collaborations are fundamental to the development of Dubai’s healthcare system

His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman of the Board of Directors for Dubai Health and Chancellor of the Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences (MBRU), chaired the meeting of Dubai Health's Board of Directors. The meeting, 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, emphasised the importance of global partnerships in supporting medical education and strengthening the healthcare sector.

The meeting, held at MBRU, was attended by Her Excellency Dr. Raja Easa Al Gurg, His Excellency Abdulla Abdul Rahman Al Shaibani, Professor Sir Ian Andrew Greer, His Excellency Waleed Saeed Al Awadhi, Mohammed Hassan Al Shehhi, Dr. Amer Sharif, CEO of Dubai Health, and Professor Alawi Alsheikh-Ali representing MBRU.

During the meeting, the board reviewed significant projects and achievements from the previous term, reaffirming Dubai Health's commitment to elevating healthcare standards and innovation in line with the Dubai Social Agenda 33.

A Decade of Partnership with Queen's University Belfast
The board also celebrated a decade of partnership between MBRU and Queen's University Belfast (QUB). Established in 2015, the collaboration was built on a shared vision for advancing healthcare education and research.
His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum praised this partnership, highlighting it as a model for international academic cooperation, demonstrating Dubai Health’s commitment to positioning Dubai as a global healthcare hub. In recognition of this successful partnership, His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum honoured Professor Sir Ian Andrew Greer, Dubai Health Board Member and Chancellor of QUB, for his contributions to strengthening the collaboration between the two universities. He wished the university continued success in its future endeavours.

His Highness Sheikh Mansoor bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice Chairman of the Board, commended the success of Dubai Health's global partnerships, describing them as fundamental to the development of Dubai’s healthcare system. His Highness also expressed his appreciation to Dubai Health teams for continuously improving the quality of services, and emphasised the importance of academic and scientific collaborations to further develop Dubai’s healthcare system.  

Her Excellency Dr. Raja Easa Al Gurg, Chairperson of MBRU Council and Dubai Health Board Member, said: "Celebrating ten years of academic collaboration with QUB underscores our commitment to achieving the highest standards in medical education and research. This partnership has enhanced the capabilities of our healthcare professionals across various specialties, elevating the standard of patient care. We thank QUB for its ongoing collaboration and look forward to continuing our partnership."
Professor Alawi Alsheikh-Ali, Chief Academic Officer at Dubai Health and Provost of MBRU, highlighted the tangible impact of the collaboration, stating: "Over the past decade, this partnership has led to the accreditation of several undergraduate medical programmes, sending numerous students on scholarships for advanced studies and training, and the establishment of the Hind Bint Maktoum College of Nursing and Midwifery. It has also contributed to joint research initiatives and the development of MBRU's Biomedical Research Center."

He concluded: "We are immensely proud of the accomplishments resulting from this collaboration and its significant impact on developing medical expertise and promoting academic excellence."

In the presence of His Highness Sheikh Mansoor bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice Chairman of the Dubai Health Board of Directors, Dubai Health hosted a gala dinner in collaboration with Informa Markets to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the Arab Health Exhibition and Congress.

Held at the Dubai World Trade Centre, the gala dinner was attended by members of the Dubai Health Board of Directors, senior officials from the Dubai government, CEOs of leading healthcare companies, media leaders, and the Informa team. The event highlighted the achievements of Arab Health since its inception in 1975 and its role in the advancement of the healthcare sector over the years.

Dr. Amer Sharif, CEO of Dubai Health and President of Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences (MBRU), stated: “For five decades, Arab Health has evolved into a global platform for collaboration and knowledge exchange, attracting the world’s leading healthcare companies and contributing to the remarkable transformation of Dubai’s healthcare system. I extend my gratitude to Informa Markets for their outstanding efforts in strengthening this vital sector.

Dr. Sharif added: “The success of Arab Health reflects the strategic direction of our visionary leadership, who placed health and wellbeing as a national priority. Looking ahead, we have a wonderful opportunity to harness our collective capacity to develop solutions that improve healthcare outcomes around the globe. Through our shared efforts, we can chart a new course forward as ‘Together We Advance Health for Humanity’.”

Peter Hall, President of Middle East, India, Türkiye & Africa at Informa Markets, said: “We are proud to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Arab Health Exhibition and Congress. The exhibition has become one of the world's leading events, bringing together thousands of participants, leading companies, medical professionals, and decision-makers every year to showcase the latest technologies and solutions that advance the healthcare sector.”

He added: “We work with our partners at Dubai Health, along with many global medical companies and institutions, to achieve our shared vision of developing the healthcare sector. We thank all participants who have contributed to the success of this event and affirm our continued support for efforts to achieve progress and prosperity in this sector. This occasion is not only a celebration of the past and the achievements over five decades but also an opportunity to look to the future and explore new possibilities for improving health and serving humanity.”

New phase of expansion

Hall mentioned that the exhibition will enter a new phase of expansion starting from the next edition, with its new name, ‘World Health Expo Dubai (WHX Dubai),’ which is scheduled to be held at Expo Dubai.

The gala dinner’s programme showcased a variety of exceptional Emirati talents. To commemorate the occasion, souvenirs inspired by traditional Emirati culture, which were designed by Emirati artist Hessa Alghandi, were gifted to reflect the enduring impact of Arab Health through half a century. The evening’s entertainment included musical performances by pianist Ahmed Al Hashimi, an Emirati prodigy on the autism spectrum, and Emirati oud player Shamsa Al Jasmi. The menu included dishes prepared by Emirati chefs Saud Al Matrooshi and Arwa Lootah in collaboration with the Jumeirah Emirates Towers Hotel.

The Arab Health Exhibition and Congress is held annually in Dubai, bringing together thousands of experts and specialists from around the world to showcase the latest innovations and technologies in the healthcare field, enhancing the UAE's position as a leading destination in this vital sector.

The 50th edition of Arab Health, held under the theme ‘Where the World of Healthcare Meets,’ is well on course to attract more than 60,000 visitors, hosting over 40 international pavilions, and bringing together more than 3,800 exhibitors from 180 countries.

A high-level delegation from Dubai Courts visited Dubai Health to gain insights into Dubai’s first integrated academic health system and discuss opportunities for cooperation.

Led by H.E. Professor Saif Ghanem Al Suwaidi, Director General of Dubai Courts, the delegation included senior officials from Dubai Courts. They were warmly received by Dr. Amer Sharif, CEO of Dubai Health and President of Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences (MBRU), along with other senior representatives in Dubai Health.

The visit, held at MBRU, featured a briefing about the evolution of Dubai’s healthcare sector from 1970 to the establishment of Dubai Health. The delegation also toured several research centers and attended part of MBRU’s Cancer Research Conference.

Commenting on the visit, H.E. Professor Saif Ghanem Al Suwaidi said: “Our visit to Dubai Health offered valuable insights into how Dubai Health is advancing healthcare, enriching medical education, and developing specialized medical professionals. At Dubai Courts, we firmly believe in collaborating with institutions to promote sustainable development across all sectors, ultimately improving the quality of community services and enhancing well-being.”

“The strategic partnership between government and academic entities is critical to achieving Dubai’s developmental goals. This visit reinforces our commitment to working with organizations that benefit our communities. We are confident that such efforts will enhance Dubai’s status as a global hub for innovation, and we look forward to continuing our collaboration with Dubai Health and other key stakeholders.”

Dr. Amer Sharif said, “We were honored to welcome H.E. Dr. Saif Ghanem Al Suwaidi and the delegation from Dubai Courts. We thank them for their visit, which underscores the importance of collaboration between Dubai Health and various government entities. This visit provided an opportunity to showcase Dubai Health’s journey as an integrated academic health system. By working collaboratively across sectors, we aim to achieve shared goals that benefit the community and enhance the quality of life in Dubai, ultimately upholding our ‘Patient First’ promise.

Dubai Health welcomed Professor Yasmine Belkaid, the winner of the Great Arab Minds 2024 in Medicine, to deliver a lecture and engaging discussion at Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences (MBRU). Renowned for her groundbreaking research in immunology, Professor Belkaid shared transformative insights with a diverse audience of healthcare professionals and students.

During her lecture, ‘Microbiota Control of Immunity,’ Professor Belkaid shared her groundbreaking research on how the immune system differentiates between beneficial and harmful microbes. She also shared insights from her scientific journey, offering students valuable perspectives on tackling immune and infectious diseases through innovative approaches. With over 220 published studies in infection and immunity, Professor Belkaid has made significant contributions to sustainable solutions in healthcare and nutrition. The session generated enthusiasm among students and healthcare professionals, offering a valuable opportunity to learn from one of the world’s leading immunologists.

The session was attended by Dr. Amer Sharif, CEO of Dubai Health and President of MBRU; Professor Alawi Alsheikh-Ali, Chief Academic Officer at Dubai Health and Provost of MBRU, alongside students and healthcare professionals.

Professor Belkaid also toured research facilities at MBRU, including the Biomedical Research Center, the Center for Applied and Translational Genomics (CATG), and the Biobank, where she expressed appreciation for the university's infrastructure and academic programs. She also met with MBRU students from various disciplines to discuss recent advancements in immunology and health sciences.

H.E. Dr. Raja Easa Al Gurg, Chairperson of MBRU’s Board of Trustees and Dubai Health Board Member, said: “Professor Yasmine Belkaid exemplifies the extraordinary potential of Arab women to drive transformative advancements in science and healthcare. Her achievements inspire future generations, demonstrating the Arab world’s ability to lead meaningful innovations for the benefit of humanity. MBRU is proud to be a platform for knowledge exchange and collaboration with scientific talents, furthering our mission of fostering continuous learning and discovery within our integrated academic health system.”

Her Excellency added: “We were honored to host Professor Yasmine Belkaid, and I extend my congratulations on her well-deserved recognition. I also thank her for sharing her invaluable insights with our community.”

Dr. Amer Sharif, CEO of Dubai Health and President of MBRU, said: “We were privileged to welcome Professor Yasmine Belkaid, an inspiring example of Arab scientific excellence whose work has greatly benefited humanity. This visit reflects our commitment to fostering a learning environment that nurtures the next generation of healthcare professionals and serves as a role model for aspiring researchers throughout the Arab world.”

He added, “We are deeply grateful for her visit and impactful lecture, which enriched the knowledge of our students and academic community. I also want to thank the organizers of the Great Arab Minds Award for highlighting such exceptional talents.”

Professor Alawi Alsheikh-Ali, Chief Academic Officer at Dubai Health and Provost of MBRU, stated: “Hosting Professor Yasmine Belkaid provided an exceptional opportunity for our students and medical community to deepen their understanding of immunology and its role in combating immune and infectious diseases. Her visit underscores our commitment to advancing science and learning by preparing the next generation of specialized scientists and researchers.”

He added: “We are grateful to Professor Belkaid for sharing her invaluable insights and engaging with our academic community. Her contributions not only inspire our students and professionals but also elevate the pursuit of excellence in research and discovery.”

As the first Arab woman to lead the Institute Pasteur in France, Professor Belkaid’s research has transformed our understanding of the immune system, paving the way for breakthroughs in treating immune-related conditions. Her achievements reflect her dedication to advancing science and humanity, aligning seamlessly with MBRU’s vision of integrated learning, discovery, and innovation.