Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences (MBRU), which leads the learning and discovery missions of Dubai Health, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the American Dental Association Forsyth Institute (AFI), a top-tier, United States-based research institute focused on exploring the connections between oral health and overall well-being. The strategic partnership aims to advance oral health and related technology development in Dubai by fostering research and learning opportunities for students and faculty at MBRU’s Hamdan Bin Mohammed College of Dental Medicine (HBMCDM), aligning with Dubai Health’s evidence-based approach to advancing patient care.  The agreement was part of a broader visit by MBRU’s HBMCDM delegation to the United States, during which they engaged with leading academic institutions and explored avenues for international collaboration.

Through strategic partnership, Dubai Health and AFI will collaborate on joint research projects and student exchange programs to address oral health issues, ultimately improving dental care outcomes. The collaboration will also facilitate the organization of joint symposia, conferences, and workshops to foster knowledge exchange among oral health professionals. This partnership aligns with the mission of Dubai Health’s integrated academic health system, where learning and discovery inform evidence-based solutions that enhance patient outcomes and experiences.

Commenting on the partnership, Professor Manal Al Halabi, Dean of HBMCDM at MBRU, said, “This collaboration with the ADA Forsyth Institute represents a significant step forward in our efforts to elevate oral health research and education at MBRU. The agreement creates valuable opportunities for collaboration and knowledge exchange, ultimately leading to better oral health care.”

“ADA Forsyth has created an ecosystem for oral health technology development,” said AFI’s Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Wenyuan Shi, “Through this partnership with MBRU, we can extend access to this ecosystem to Dubai Health and promote oral health innovation and research collaboration globally.”

In line with MBRU’s commitment to global collaboration, a delegation from the Hamdan Bin Mohammed College of Dental Medicine (HBMCDM) recently visited leading dental schools in Boston to strengthen international partnerships. Led by Professor Manal Al Halabi, the delegation engaged with renowned institutions, including Tufts University and Boston University’s Henry Goldman School of Dental Medicine. During the visit, they participated in the DENTECH ADA Forsyth meeting, where Professor Al Halabi contributed as a panelist in a discussion on Global Innovation and Investment. The team also attended the Tufts Annual Implantology Symposium, with Professor Al Halabi joining the Dean’s Round Table discussion alongside esteemed leaders from prominent global dental institutions. Additionally, the delegation met with Dubai Health scholars in Boston to support their academic and professional development.

The delegation also included Dr. Eman Alnuaimi, Assistant Dean for Student Happiness and Wellbeing; Professor Momen Atieh, Chair of Oral Diagnostics and Surgical Sciences; Dr. Mohamed Jamal, Program Director for Endodontics; and Dr. Anas AlSalami, Program Director for Pediatric Dentistry.

April 04, 2024, Dubai: Al Jalila Foundation, which leads the giving mission of Dubai Health, announced that Saeed Ahmed Lootah Charity Foundation has donated AED 15 million to support the development of the Hamdan Bin Rashid Cancer Hospital, Dubai's first integrated, comprehensive cancer hospital. This donation underscores Saeed Ahmed Lootah Charity Foundation's commitment to advancing sustainable charitable and humanitarian work and reinforcing Dubai's pioneering role in healthcare excellence.

Set 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 hospital is being developed with the support of generous donations received from philanthropists, government and non-government organizations, UAE businesses and corporates.

Engineer Hussain Nasser Lootah, Member of the Board of Trustees of the Saeed Ahmed Lootah Charity Foundation, said: “Inspired by our visionary leadership, which has embedded philanthropy into its core humanitarian strategies, the Saeed Ahmed Lootah Charity Foundation, led by H.E. Lieutenant General Dhahi Khalfan Tamim, Chairman of the Board of Trustees, remains committed to social responsibility, education, and medical research support. We are pleased to contribute towards the Hamdan Bin Rashid Cancer Hospital, aligning our efforts with Al Jalila Foundation to ensure equitable and essential access to cancer care. This partnership reflects the core principles of our esteemed founder, Haj Saeed Ahmed Lootah, who championed education, healthcare, and scientific research. Our dedication extends beyond borders, encompassing local and global charitable and humanitarian endeavors."

Dr. Thani Al Mheriri, CEO of Education & Health at Saeed Ahmed Lootah Charity Foundation, said: “By joining hands, we aim to make a meaningful impact in the fight against cancer and advancing medical research. Our dedication to medical education and healthcare is deeply rooted in our legacy; Dubai Medical College for Girls, which was established forty years ago as the first institution for medical education for girls in the Gulf region, is now a prominent contributor to the healthcare landscape."

Dr. Amer Al Zarooni, CEO of Al Jalila Foundation, said: “Donor support is an integral part of our success in developing the Hamdan Bin Rashid Cancer Hospital. We are grateful to Saeed Ahmed Lootah Charity Foundation, which has committed to helping us support cancer patients and their families. The hospital will bring together cancer expertise and make an invaluable contribution to Dubai’s healthcare sector, putting patient care first.”

"Together, we are one step closer to establishing a center of excellence that will transform cancer care in the UAE." he added.

The 116-bed hospital will occupy 56,000 square meters. It will provide best-in-class outpatient, ambulatory and diagnostic services as well as inpatient and surgical services in a nurturing environment that features personalized patient care.

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.

For more information on Al Jalila Foundation and its programs, please visit:
https://www.aljalilafoundation.ae

Dubai Health, the first integrated academic health system in Dubai, has announced the opening of applications for its graduate training programs offered by the Graduate Medical Education (GME) at Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences (MBRU).

The GME at MBRU offers an extensive range of training opportunities, including two internship programs, 20 residencies, and 15 fellowships spanning medical, dental, and surgical specialties. These programs have earned accreditation from key regional accreditation bodies, including the Saudi Commission for Health Specialties, the UAE National Institute for Health Specialties, and the Arab Board of Health Specializations.

Professor Sulaiman Alemran, Dean of Graduate Medical Education, commented: “As Dubai’s first academic health system, through the integration of care, learning, discovery, and giving, we have a unique opportunity to create an engine for innovation, connected for the patient - delivered through a culture of collaboration. We believe that through instilling this transformative mindset and uniting as one, we can advance health to new heights of patient-centric excellence. Leveraging the integrated academic health system of Dubai Health, our trainees have the unique opportunity to directly engage with patients across 6 hospitals, 27 ambulatory health centers, and 20 medical fitness centers at with Dubai Health.”

Dr. Rasha Buhumaid, Vice Dean and Designated Institutional Official at Graduate Medical Education and Assistant Professor of Emergency Medicine at MBRU said, "We offer 250 seats annually for enrollment in our graduate medical education programs. Our programs are designed to equip emerging healthcare professionals with well-rounded skills, ensuring their preparedness for the dynamic professional landscape. Trainees will benefit from experienced and dedicated faculty and clinical educators and partake in innovative research within their specialized field of interest, contributing to advancing medical knowledge. This approach aims to guarantee the quality of healthcare provided by future healthcare professionals, fostering a commitment to excellence and quality in their practice."

Registration for Graduate Medical Education (GME) at MBRU is currently open, with a deadline of March 22nd for residency programs. For internship and fellowship programs, the registration period extends until April 22nd.

To learn more and submit an application, please visit: https://www.mbru.ac.ae/graduate-medical-education/

In line with the UAE National Sports Strategy 2031 ..Dubai Academic Health Corporation and Dubai Sports Council sign MoU to boost the sports sector's support for humanitarian and charitable causes

Al Jalila Foundation, a global healthcare philanthropic organization dedicated to transforming lives through medical innovation, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Dubai Sports Council (DSC) aimed at enhancing the contributions of the sports sector towards humanitarian programs and charitable initiatives.

The signing of the agreement aligns with the UAE National Sports Strategy 2031 which was recently launched by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, to promote community well-being through sports. The Strategy seeks to foster a culture of physical activity, improve the capabilities of sports professionals, identify promising athletes in educational institutions, and modernize sports education methods and regulations.

During the ceremony, the ‘Champions of Hope’ tribute wall, dedicated to recognizing extraordinary sports personalities who have made significant contributions to Al Jalila Foundation, was inaugurated.

The inauguration of the tribute wall and the MoU signing ceremony was attended by His Excellency Saeed Hareb, Secretary General of DSC; Nasser Aman Al Rahma, Assistant Secretary General of DSC; Dr. Amer Sharif, Chief Executive Officer of Dubai Academic Health Corporation (DAHC); Dr. Amer Al Zarooni, Chief Executive Officer of Al Jalila Foundation, and representatives of DSC and DAHC.

Al Jalila Foundation has been officially designated as the charity partner of the Dubai Sports Council, marking a significant collaboration between the two entities. Together, they will embark on a series of initiatives aimed at promoting sports philanthropy and fostering a culture of sports, physical activity and inclusive participation across all segments of society.

Dr Amer Al Zarooni, CEO of the Al Jalila Foundation, said “Philanthropy possesses an extraordinary capacity to create lasting change. United by the common language of sport, the collaboration between Al Jalila Foundation and the DSC symbolizes DAHC’s unwavering dedication to elevate the overall health and well-being of people in the UAE.”

He added: “Sports provide an incredible platform to reach hundreds of thousands of individuals, promoting healthy lifestyles and generating funds for charitable endeavors. We take immense pride in the support we receive from numerous sporting legends, and it is truly inspiring to witness globally recognized athletes utilizing their influence to bring about positive change in people's lives. The Champions of Hope tribute wall will stand as a lasting testament to compassion, generosity and empowerment, leaving a legacy for future generations."

His Excellency Saeed Hareb, Secretary General of DSC, expressed his delight in signing the agreement with Al Jalila Foundation and conveyed his deep admiration for the remarkable societal and humanitarian accomplishments made thus far. “The role of sports has proven to be instrumental in supporting philanthropic initiatives and advancing medical research, ultimately making significant contributions to patient recovery. Sports stars play crucial roles, not only in terms of achieving outstanding results and bringing happiness to their fans, but also in actively supporting community, sports and humanitarian initiatives. Their involvement highlights the tireless efforts of national institutions, with Al Jalila Foundation being at the forefront, in making a positive impact on society.”

His Excellency added: “We have witnessed successful collaborations between DSC and Al Jalila Foundation in the past, always uniting our shared objectives of national sports, humanitarian endeavours and community service to benefit humanity.”

Champions of Hope Tribute Wall

Symbolic of the remarkable strength of community within the realm of sports, the Champions of Hope tribute wall serves as a showcase for sports memorabilia, including two Guinness World Records that were achieved through items sold at the Al Jalila Foundation charity auction in 2015. Notably, among these record-breaking items is a race helmet worn by HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum during his triumphant victory at the FEI World Endurance Championship in 2012, which fetched an astounding AED24 million. Additionally, the display features the exceptional AED2.4 million Al Yamamah saddle generously donated by His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, which he rode to victory at the 2014 Altech FEI World Equestrian Games held in Normandy, France.

Since its establishment, Al Jalila Foundation has been harnessing the power of sports to support its healthcare philanthropic programmes. Over the years, the Foundation has been part of iconic sporting events to help raise awareness around a number of causes. Through its engagement in these iconic sporting occasions, the Foundation has generated substantial funds to support its various programs including 7 Emirates Run, Beat Diabetes Walk, Pink is Punk.

Overall, Al Jalila Foundation has held a total of 300 sporting events and raised almost AED10 million. The latest partnership with DSC will further contribute to realizing the Foundation’s objective to transform lives through sports.

As the official Sports Ambassador for Al Jalila Foundation, the esteemed former Real Madrid footballer Michel Salgado has made significant contributions by donating his customized boots to the Foundation and fostering fruitful collaborations with renowned footballer and former Real Madrid goalkeeper, Iker Casillas, as well as esteemed corporate fundraising partners. In close partnership with Clarence Seedorf, a four-time UEFA Champions League winner, the Foundation strives to amplify awareness regarding the importance of cultivating a healthy lifestyle, especially among the younger generation.

Notably, MMA coach Javier Mendez, alongside an impressive line-up of top-tier fighters including the current UFC Lightweight Champion Islam Makhachev, UAE Warriors fighter Emirati Hadi Al Husseini, and the UAE's pioneering Emirati female boxer Fahima Falaknaz, have generously contributed signed items and are actively engaged in multiple initiatives in collaboration with the Foundation.

Dubai Academic Health Corporation’s vision is to advance health for humanity through the integration of care, learning, discovery and giving. Al Jalila Foundation advances DAHC’s giving mission to impact lives and shape the future of health through philanthropy.

For more information about Al Jalila Foundation please visit: www.aljalilafoundation.ae

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.

In line with the vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, for the future of the emirate’s healthcare sector, His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Chairman of The Executive Council of Dubai, approved the new brand identity for ‘Dubai Health’, the emirate’s first integrated academic health system that seeks to enhance the quality of patient care in the city.

The new identity encapsulates essential pillars that underscore collaborative teamwork, aiming to consolidate Dubai's leadership in advancing healthcare excellence across the domains of health, education and research.

HH Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed directed the transformation of Dubai into a leading global model for advancing human health by providing highly efficient medical services and adhering to the best international practices in healthcare. He also underscored the significance of enhancing the academic aspect of the healthcare system to achieve the desired outcomes for the sector in the next phase.

The unveiling of the new brand identity for 'Dubai Health' took place at a press conference held at the Dubai Press Club. The event was attended by Dr. Amer Sharif, CEO of Dubai Health and President of Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences (MBRU), along with several healthcare providers in the emirate.

Dubai Health – Brand Identity

The ‘Dubai Health’ brand identity finds its inspiration in the attributes of care, learning and discovery, rooted in a strong tradition of giving as depicted in the brand’s logo. Symbolised by three arches anchored by a foundation, the logo’s central arch serves as a representation of care, expressed through compassionate guardianship and nurturing of boundless potential. The secondary arches represent learning and discovery, while the solid base of the logo stands for giving.

Through the integration of these four missions, Dubai aligns with leading academic health systems worldwide, enhancing patient outcomes and fostering accessibility and sustainability within its healthcare sector.

His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman of the Dubai Health Board of Directors, said: “The new brand identity builds on Dubai’s robust healthcare system and is a significant step towards shaping a new paradigm of excellence for the sector. The healthcare sector is the cornerstone of the wellbeing of our communities and pivotal to realising our vision of a world-class healthcare system. We are dedicated to continually enhancing Dubai's health system and helping it evolve with a transformative care model poised to tangibly enhance community health and shape the future of healthcare in Dubai and beyond. Strengthening the sustainability and resilience of our health sector is integral to achieving the objectives outlined in the Dubai Economic Agenda, D33.”

 Dubai Health – Dubai’s integrated academic health system

As the first academic health system in the city, ‘Dubai Health’ is strongly committed to providing the best outcomes for patients through evidence-based care. ‘Dubai Health’ oversees six hospitals, 26 ambulatory health centres and 20 medical fitness centres. The Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences (MBRU) and Al Jalila Foundation also operate under the umbrella of ‘Dubai Health’.

His Highness Sheikh Mansoor bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice Chairman of the Dubai Health Board of Directors, said: “‘Dubai Health’ underscores our commitment to enhancing the health and well-being of the community in Dubai. Academic health systems worldwide have consistently demonstrated an elevated standard of patient care by seamlessly integrating knowledge, people and capabilities. The world's top 10 ranked hospitals are affiliated with renowned medical schools and universities within academic health systems. Through the integration of care, learning, discovery and giving, 'Dubai Health' aligns with global best practices, harnessing the transformative power of an integrated academic health system for the emirate.”

Dubai Health – Patient First Promise

‘Dubai Health’s’ primary value is ‘Patient First’, which encompasses a dedication to delivering high-quality care, ensuring patient safety and promoting a positive patient experience.

Dr. Amer Sharif said: “We are dedicated to achieving integration of the health system through the new corporate identity, encompassing care, learning, discovery and giving, with the aim of positioning ‘Dubai Health’ as a global benchmark in patient care and health outcomes. This marks a new phase in realising the vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum to consolidate Dubai’s position as a leading global healthcare destination.

“Our mission of integration serves as an engine for innovation, dedicated to the patient. We believe that through instilling this transformative mindset and uniting as one system we can advance health to new heights of patient-centric excellence. The new corporate identity reflects our vision to contribute to Dubai's pursuit of a sustainable, knowledge-based economy, supporting the growth and performance of the health sector,” Dr. Sharif said.

Dr. Sharif added: “In the ever-progressing field of medicine and health sciences, continuous learning is pivotal. At the heart of our academic health system is a commitment to ensure that we are well-versed in the latest medical discoveries, technological breakthroughs and progressive best practices. This scholarly-driven ethos not only advances the healthcare field but also enhances the care received by our patients.”

Unified Vision

During the press conference, Dr. Sharif explained that the Dubai Health Authority (DHA) is responsible for ensuring a high-quality healthcare system in the emirate. This is achieved by organising and developing necessary policies and legislation to safeguard public health, enhance the standard of living, and introduce a health strategy geared towards enabling Dubai to meet its future needs.

On the other hand, ‘Dubai Health’, with its primary commitment to enhancing human health and a dedicated focus on improving the patient experience within the healthcare sector, assumes the responsibilities of establishing global standards grounded in scientific evidence for patient care. It aims to enhance health outcomes through rigorous scientific research and bring about a transformative shift in education by refining the patient journey and preparing qualified professionals to meet future requirements. Additionally, it emphasises the significance of health endowment due to its impact on supporting health and preserving individual lives.

Dr. Sharif noted that the new brand identity of ‘Dubai Health’, along with its future vision, aligns with and complements the Dubai Health Authority's efforts to strengthen Dubai's standing as a global exemplar in delivering the best healthcare and treatment to patients.

‘Dubai Health’ provides a spectrum of benefits designed to attract strategic investments in health sciences, foster governance development, enhance operational efficiency, improve healthcare outcomes, build local health capabilities, attract and retain distinguished talent and promote research and innovation.

Milestones

‘Dubai Health’s’ team of over 11,000 professionals collaborate across multidisciplinary teams to provide compassionate, evidence-based care centred on the patient and their families. ‘Dubai Health’ has attained several milestones, with its hospitals recording over 4.7 million outpatient visits, nearly 350,000 emergency department visits and over 60,000 patient admissions in 2022. Notably, it has drawn in over 1,000 learners from various disciplines worldwide, provided 60 scholarships and 100 research grants and offered a total of 8,686 patients in need medical support.

Since 2016, ‘Dubai Health’ has also contributed significantly to studies and research, issuing more than 1,114 scientific and clinical research papers. The importance of this research lies in recognising that individual well-being is a pivotal factor in prosperity and psychological comfort, subsequently impacting productivity and national development. The advancement of the academic healthcare sector stands as a key indicator of a country's progress and the well-being of its citizens.

Dubai Academic Health Corporation was established as per Law No. (13) of 2021, issued by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai. Effective 11 November 2023, Dubai Academic Health Corporation will operate under the new brand name 'Dubai Health'.

The International Hospital Federation (IHF), a global organisation dedicated to advancing and promoting excellence in healthcare delivery and management worldwide, announced that it has elected Emirati Dr. Muna Tahlak, Chief Medical Officer of Dubai Academic Health Corporation (DAHC), Vice Provost Clinical Practice of Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences (MBRU), and CEO of Latifa Hospital for Women and Children, as President of the Federation during the World Hospital Congress in Lisbon.

Dr. Tahlak's election as President of IHF is a major milestone for the UAE on the global healthcare front. As the first Arab woman and Emirati to hold this esteemed position, it underscores the UAE's commitment to both advancing the role of women across diverse fields and promoting excellence in the healthcare sector. This achievement also marks a remarkable moment in the history of the IHF, with Dr. Tahlak assuming the highest international position ever held within the organisation.

The IHF Governing Council voted to elect Dr. Tahlak as the new IHF President. In doing so, Dr. Tahlak ends her term as President Designate and now begins her two-year term as President of the IHF, succeeding Deborah J. Bowen, FACHE, CAE, President, and Chief Executive Officer of the American College of Healthcare Executives.

Dr. Tahlak expressed her gratitude and honour on being appointed, stating: “I extend my heartfelt appreciation to our visionary leadership for their unwavering commitment to empowering women. Emirati women have consistently excelled in diverse high-ranking roles across various domains. Our nation has also consistently offered abundant opportunities to foster the progress and specialisation of Emirati women, particularly within the medical field.

“This victory highlights not only the progress that Emirati women have made but also reflects the leading position of UAE’s health sector. I am honoured to represent the UAE and fellow Emirati women on such an important global platform,” she added.

Dr. Tahlak also noted that her work with the IHF over the past seven years has provided her with a platform to showcase the exemplary work of hospitals in the UAE and the invaluable contributions of Emirati women on a global scale.

Dr. Amer Sharif, CEO of Dubai Academic Health Corporation, congratulated Dr. Tahlak on her well-deserved appointment as the President of the International Hospital Federation, emphasising her exceptional leadership, expertise, and remarkable contributions to the healthcare system in Dubai and beyond. He also expressed his pride in Dr. Tahlak’s accomplishments and the recognition she brings to the exceptional talent of Emirati women on the global stage.

“This is an incredibly proud moment for the entire healthcare sector in the UAE. Emirati women have consistently excelled across various domains, particularly in the medical field, making substantial contributions to the nation's growth and development. Dr. Tahlak's leadership and dedication play a crucial role in fulfilling DAHC's mission to impact lives and shape the future of health through the integration of care, learning, discovery, and giving,” he said.

Dubai Academic Health Corporation (DAHC), Dubai’s first integrated academic health system, announced that it has earned the prestigious Gold Seal of Approval® by the Joint Commission International (JCI) across all its hospitals and primary care centers.

By maintaining its international accreditation, DAHC demonstrates a steadfast dedication to upholding healthcare excellence for patients and their families. The accreditation also reflects its commitment to becoming a global leader in providing exceptional patient care by maintaining the highest quality and safety standards.

The Joint Commission International, a leading accreditation body for hospitals and healthcare organizations worldwide, conducted a thorough evaluation process to award DAHC hospitals with the Gold Seal of Approval®. This evaluation concentrated on critical operational systems related to safety and encompassed various facets of patient care. JCI's comprehensive assessment examined the hospitals' adherence to rigorous global standards, with a particular emphasis on patient safety, clinical quality, and risk management protocols.

Dr. Muna Tahlak, Chief Medical Officer of DAHC and CEO of Latifa Hospital, said: “Receiving JCI accreditation across Dubai Academic Health Corporation hospitals and healthcare facilities is a tremendous accomplishment that speaks volumes about our unwavering commitment to delivering exceptional patient care. This recognition validates the hard work and dedication of our teams and demonstrates our ongoing pursuit of excellence in healthcare in line with our ‘Patient First’ promise.”

Joel Roos, Vice President, International Accreditation, Quality Improvement and Safety, Joint Commission International, said: “The accreditation offered by JCI equips hospitals with processes that foster improvements across multiple areas, such as staff education advancements and the implementation of leading practices within the hospital environment. We commend Dubai Academic Health Corporation for its dedication to becoming a quality improvement organization and reaching this prestigious milestone, which showcases a strong commitment to patient safety and quality.

By successfully securing JCI's accreditation, patients and their families can have even greater confidence in the care they receive at DAHC hospitals, affirming the organization's pledge to place its patients first.