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

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

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

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

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

Reflection of Dubai Social Agenda 33
HH Sheikh Hamdan said, "The Hamdan Bin Rashid Cancer Hospital honors the humanitarian legacy of the late Sheikh Hamdan bin Rashid Al Maktoum. This new addition to the health system in Dubai will play a crucial role in achieving the Dubai Social Agenda 33 goal to deliver the most efficient world-class healthcare system of the highest quality."
HH Sheikh Hamdan thanked all donors who had contributed to the hospital project, highlighting their support as invaluable contributions to building the future of Dubai and its healthcare sector.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Dubai Health, the first integrated academic health system in Dubai, held an industry briefing session on Day 1 of the 49th Arab Health Exhibition and Congress, taking place this week at the Dubai World Trade Centre.

At the session, H.E. Dr. Amer Sharif, CEO of Dubai Health, presented a comprehensive overview of Dubai's first integrated academic health system model to over 150 industry thought leaders and officials from the UAE and abroad. Drawing parallels with globally renowned institutions adopting similar models, Dr. Amer shared exclusive insights on the work being undertaken by Dubai Health. Dubai aligns with leading academic health systems worldwide, enhancing patient outcomes and promoting accessibility and sustainability within its healthcare sector.

During the session, Dr. Amer highlighted Dubai Health’s commitment to enhancing health outcomes by building local talent and fostering research and innovation. He also shed light on working collaboratively by integrating knowledge, people, and capabilities to deliver patient-centric, evidence-based care that sets new benchmarks in healthcare excellence.

Dr. Amer Sharif said: “Through a unified commitment to patient-centered care, we are not just shaping the present healthcare landscape, but also laying the foundation for a transformative future anchored in our primary value of 'Patient First.’ This commitment extends beyond the present, as we strive to create a lasting impact on the lives and wellbeing of our community for generations to come.”

“Central to our goals are partnerships and collaborations that amplify our efforts and catalyze innovation. By cultivating strong alliances with stakeholders across the healthcare spectrum, we harness collective expertise and resources to address the present health challenges and drive meaningful change, ensuring that together we advance health for humanity.” H.E. Amer added.

Dubai Health was established to elevate the standard of care and to advance health for humanity. Dubai Health comprises six hospitals, 26 ambulatory health centers, 20 medical fitness centers, Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences, and Al Jalila Foundation through the integration of care, learning, discovery, and giving. Eleven thousand employees collaborate across multidisciplinary teams to put the patient first.

For the first time in the UAE, the Emirates Society of Haematology (ESH), supported by Dubai Health, joined forces with the George Washington University to present the Emirates Hematology Best Practices Updates. The event was held last month and offered a thorough review course covering a wide range of topics in both benign and malignant hematology.

Distinguished speakers from top institutions delivered a series of engaging lectures and posed review board questions covering a wide spectrum of topics, including platelet and bleeding disorders, hematologic complications during pregnancy, bone marrow transplants and more. Each day, participants engaged in audience response questions and dynamic case discussions across various domains of hematology-oncology, fostering interactive and enriching learning experiences.

Dr. Asma Sultan Alolama, Program Director of the Adult Hematology Fellowship program at Dubai Health, President of ESH and Consultant Hematologist at Dubai Hospital, expressed her pride in achieving the establishment of this Best Practice Update for the UAE within an impressive timeframe of just three months. “Drawing more than 100 participants not only from the UAE but also from other GCC countries, this event stands as a significant milestone for the country and the wider region, representing the first instance of George Washington University convening course outside the USA.”

As Dubai’s first integrated academic health system, Dubai Health aims to contribute towards Dubai's pursuit of a sustainable, knowledge-based economy, supporting the growth and performance of the health sector.

Dubai Health announced its preparedness plan to ensure visitors’ safety and well-being during the upcoming New Year's celebrations in various locations across Dubai. The comprehensive readiness plan encompasses setting up a fully equipped field hospital in the downtown Burj Khalifa area, ensuring immediate access to medical support at the heart of the festivities.

The plan extends across Dubai Health's hospitals and ambulatory health centers to guarantee seamless coordination and readiness to address potential emergencies during the event, which is expected to draw a significant number of attendees from both the local community and tourists. The plan underscores Dubai Health's unwavering commitment to safeguarding public health and safety during one of the busiest festive events of the year.

Dr. Sara Kazim, Chair of Emergency Medicine at Dubai Health, said: “Dubai Health's emergency departments are fully prepared to manage any cases during New Year celebrations. Additionally, our field hospital boasts a specialized team of medical and nursing professionals adept at handling diverse emergency cases. The clinical team is complemented by a dedicated administrative staff and a logistics support team. The hospital is outfitted with medical equipment, supplies, and pharmaceuticals, ensuring the provision of comprehensive and integrated care for all individuals requiring medical attention.'

Chief Operating Officer at Dubai Health, Khalifa Baqer, said: “We developed a comprehensive action plan tailored to meet emergency response requirements at various celebration locations throughout the emirate. Our primary focus is delivering the best healthcare services, adhering to the highest standards of quality and efficiency, with paramount attention to overseeing the safety and medical care of all individuals involved in the celebration, in line with our primary values, Patient First.”

Al Jalila Foundation, established in 2013 by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, today celebrated its 10th anniversary as a non-profit organisation dedicated to transforming lives, delivering hope and advancing healthcare and medical innovation for the greater benefit of humanity.

The anniversary event, held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman of the Dubai Health Board of Directors, was attended by Dr. Raja Easa Saleh Al Gurg, Chairperson of Al Jalila Foundation Board of Directors and Dubai Health Board Member; Dr. Amer Sharif, CEO of Dubai Health and President of the Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences (MBRU); and Dr. Amer Al Zarooni, Chief Executive Officer of Al Jalila Foundation, alongside esteemed giving partners who have supported the healthcare charity since 2013 and continue their commitment to date.

During the event, the Foundation outlined its achievements over the past decade and extended gratitude to major donors for their ongoing support throughout the Foundation’s journey. Notable partners include Abdul Wahid Al Rostamani Group, Amity University, Dr Wael Al Mahmeed, Easa Saleh Al Gurg Charity Foundation, Abdul Rahim Mohammed Belghozooz Al Zarooni, AbdulGhaffar Hussain, Hussain Khansaheb and Mirwais Azizi.

Commenting on the occasion, His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum said: “The sustained charitable efforts in the UAE embody the values and principles deeply ingrained in the culture and character of the UAE people. Over the past decade, Al Jalila Foundation has been a testament to the generosity and support of our donors, contributing significantly to the advancement of healthcare and the well-being of our community. We are immensely grateful for their continued commitment, which allows us to make a meaningful difference in the lives of those in need, aligning with the enduring spirit of compassion that defines the very essence of the UAE.  As we celebrate 10 years of giving, we are committed to furthering our mission to advance philanthropy within the health sector.”

Dedicated to promoting global health through its charitable initiatives, Al Jalila Foundation has achieved considerable success in its commitment to philanthropic projects in medical education, research and patient care, positively impacting numerous lives. The Foundation's impact is apparent in its assistance to 8,768 patients, with 30% being children, confronting life-threatening conditions such as cancer, cardiovascular disease and other chronic illnesses. This underscores its continual dedication to easing the challenges faced by those in need.

In efforts to advance research, Al Jalila Foundation has championed progress by awarding 125 research grants and investing almost AED50 million in research infrastructure and knowledge-creation. Additionally, the Foundation’s contribution extends to nurturing future healthcare leaders through the provision of 146 scholarships to the brightest medical students and residents. Through pioneering projects and continued philanthropic efforts, Al Jalila Foundation stands as a beacon of hope, catalysing positive change in the landscape of healthcare and education.

Dr. Raja Al Gurg said: “For over a decade, Al Jalila Foundation has made significant strides through its healthcare programmes, transforming the lives of thousands of students, scientists and patients. Today, as we reflect on our journey, we proudly recognise the unwavering dedication and extraordinary generosity of our donors and supporters. Together, united by a shared commitment to advance the health and well-being of our people, we are not only shaping the present but also laying the foundation for a sustainable and brighter future in healthcare. Through sustainable practices and innovative approaches, Al Jalila Foundation is contributing to the evolution of healthcare, ensuring a lasting impact for generations to come.”

She added: “As we celebrate our 10th anniversary, we extend our heartfelt gratitude to HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum for his unwavering commitment to healthcare. The inspiration and driving force fuelling our endeavours stem from Sheikh Mohammed’s visionary leadership and compassion. We remain steadfast in realising his vision and ambitious goals as we work to address some of the world’s most pressing health challenges through our healthcare programmes and projects, giving hope to patients and their families.”

Dr. Amer Sharif said: “Al Jalila Foundation's dedication to advancing healthcare and fostering innovation has been truly commendable. The Foundation has contributed to impacting lives and shaping the future of health, aligning with our 'Patient First' promise. As we mark a decade of transformative impact, I extend my sincere gratitude to the entire Al Jalila Foundation team, whose commitment to excellence and compassionate care not only upholds our shared commitment to patients but also continues to elevate the standards of healthcare in our community.”

Recognising the commitment and support from the donor community and team members, Dr. Amer Al Zarooni said: “Our donors make it possible to deliver life-transforming programmes across our mission areas of care, learning and discovery. It is a privilege to be in a position to do the work we do, and our people serve with heart and compassion. We draw strength from the support we receive. Together, we create hope.”

“At Al Jalila Foundation, we are very proud to be playing our part in building a legacy where the health and wellbeing of future generations is a priority. We thank HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, our Founder, for entrusting us with his vison and empowering us to transform lives of patients, students, and scientists. We would also like to thank HH Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum and Dr. Raja Al Gurg whose leadership, wisdom and guidance have been instrumental in shaping Al Jalila Foundation into what it is today,” Dr. Al Zarooni added.

The Academic Guidance for Physicians Program helped applicants meet the requirements to enroll in medical residency programs in Canada and the US.

Dubai Health, the first integrated academic health system in Dubai has announced that 100% of its Emirati scholars from the Graduate Medical Education at Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences (MBRU) have successfully secured training opportunities for medical residency programs in Canada and the US. This notable achievement was facilitated by the Academic Mentorship Program for Physicians, a flagship initiative under the Deanship of Graduate Medical Education at MBRU designed to support trainees in pursuing medical residency training programs in North America.

Professor Alawi Alsheikh-Ali, Deputy CEO and Chief Academic Officer of Dubai Health, and Provost of MBRU, said: “This is a very special moment for Dubai Health, celebrating the success of our young scholars who are pushing the envelope and getting outside of their comfort zones to pursue their graduate medical education abroad, which is a testament to the caliber of medical education, mentorship, and clinical training that is distinctively offered at MBRU, the University within Dubai's first integrated academic health system. This success not only reflects the individual achievements of our young doctors but also underscores Dubai Health's commitment to empowering local medical talent, ensuring that they receive opportunities to excel on the global stage. I'm very proud of these young doctors and very proud of the graduate medical education team that is supporting them.”

Professor Sulaiman AlEmran, Dean of Graduate Medical Education at MBRU, said: “We are honored by the accomplishments of our Emirati scholars and MBRU’s new Academic Mentorship Program for Physicians. These achievements reflect MBRU’s commitment to supporting trainees in their learning journey, aligning with Dubai Health’s goal to cultivate local medical talent in various medical fields,”

“The Deanship of Graduate Medical Education at MBRU implemented a standardized program for academic mentorship, offering comprehensive support to medical trainees aspiring to enroll in medical residency programs in Canada and the US. The initiative included meticulous review and optimization of trainees' academic performances and resumes, coupled with informative workshops addressing application requirements and refining personal interview skills. The program facilitated communication between trainees and prominent Canadian and American institutions, introducing them to Dubai Health, and provided diligent follow-up throughout all application stages and requirements,” he added.

A total of 11 trainees who participated in the academic mentorship program, successfully meeting all admission requirements and criteria for prestigious Canadian and American institutions, including the successful completion of medical licensing exams. The Deanship of Graduate Medical Education oversaw the review process of all documents, submitting them to numerous universities in Canada and the US in collaboration with UAE attachés.

Each applicant excelled in meeting the admission requirements, including personal interviews. Successful candidates have been accepted into several medical residency programs, such as internal medicine, emergency medicine, neurology, ophthalmology, orthopedic surgery, and diagnostic radiology. Notable institutions welcoming MBRU trainees include the University of Texas in the US, as well as Canadian universities such as McGill University, the University of British Columbia, the University of Alberta, the University of Toronto, McMaster University, and Queen's University.

This unprecedented accomplishment of securing 11 training opportunities across Canadian and American institutions is a pinnacle achievement in the UAE's healthcare landscape. Moreover, this success aligns seamlessly with Dubai Health's commitment to investing in developing national healthcare talents, fostering excellence in healthcare services, and championing learning and discovery to impact lives.