Dubai Health Celebrates Graduation of First Dental PhD Students from Queen's University Belfast
Dubai Health proudly announces the graduation of Dr. Khawla Humaid Belhoul and Dr. Anas Ali AlSalami, marking a significant milestone as the first dental PhD graduates from its academic partnership with Queen's University Belfast (QUB). This achievement highlights Dubai Health's unwavering commitment to capacity development and elevating healthcare in alignment with the Dubai Social Agenda 33.
The graduation ceremony was held at QUB, in the presence of Dr. Amer Sharif, CEO of Dubai Health and President of the Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences (MBRU); Professor Alawi Alsheikh-Ali, Deputy CEO and Chief Academic Officer of Dubai Health and Provost of MBRU; and Professor Manal Al-Halabi, Dean of Hamdan Bin Mohammed College of Dental Medicine at MBRU.
Dr. Amer Sharif underscored the importance of this occasion, stating, "At Dubai Health, we are dedicated to nurturing talent across various specialties and fostering a culture of continuous learning. We strive to provide educational and training programs that align with the evolving needs of Dubai's healthcare sector. By encouraging our doctors and students to pursue education and research at leading global institutions, we ensure they acquire the expertise necessary to shape the future of healthcare and advance health for humanity."
Professor Alawi Alsheikh-Ali emphasized the vital role of scientific research in advancing the healthcare sector and formulating future strategies. He remarked, "Our collaborations with prominent global universities are instrumental in achieving these objectives and accelerating the development of our healthcare system and workforce."
Professor Manal Al-Halabi commented, "We congratulate our colleagues on this achievement and wish them continued professional and academic excellence. Their research will enhance oral health services in our hospitals and health centers, positively impacting the community as a whole."
Dr. Khawla Humaid Belhoul expressed her gratitude for achieving her academic dreams while balancing her professional life and family commitments. She noted, "This academic degree reflects the visionary leadership of the UAE and Dubai Health's dedication to developing talent through partnerships with world-class universities. Today, I am inspired to give back to my country and contribute to the advancement of our healthcare sector." Her doctoral thesis, titled "Oral Health Promotion and Disease Prevention in the UAE," investigates the prevalence of oral and dental diseases and identifies opportunities for improving oral health in the UAE.
Dr. Anas Ali AlSalami thanked Dubai Health for the invaluable support throughout his PhD journey, which significantly contributed to his personal and professional growth. His thesis, titled "Maternal Diabetes and Children's Use of Dental Services in Northern Ireland," investigates the potential long-term effects of maternal diabetes on the general and oral health of children. It specifically addresses gestational diabetes. Additionally, the research incorporates an analysis of the health economic implications for healthcare systems, suggesting that children born to mothers with diabetes may face increased risk of dental issues, such as tooth decay. Dr. Anas stated, "My research aims to develop preventive strategies, including community awareness programs, school screenings, and health policies tailored to the UAE population, with the goal of reducing the prevalence of dental disease, enhancing oral health awareness, and promoting healthy dental care habits from a young age."
Through strategic partnerships with leading academic institutions, Dubai Health is leveraging the strengths of its integrated academic health system to elevate the standard of care in the UAE and beyond.
Al Jalila Foundation receives AED11.3 million donation from Khalaf Al Habtoor
Al Jalila Foundation, the giving arm of Dubai Health, announced that it has received a donation of AED11.3 million from renowned businessman and philanthropist His Excellency Khalaf Ahmad Al Habtoor. The pledge will help cover the annual cost of 4,000 dialysis sessions for needy patients residing in the UAE. Additionally, the donation will fund the renovation of the nephrology unit at Dubai Hospital.
The renovated nephrology unit will be named after the late Mohammed Khalifa Al Suwaidi in honour of his legacy of philanthropy and community service. The contribution for the unit comes from Al Suwaidi’s estate, which is managed by His Excellency Al Habtoor as per Al Suwaidi’s will. The funds are dedicated to support charitable and humanitarian projects and HE Al Habtoor has taken care to ensure that the resources are used to support initiatives that enhance lives, elevate healthcare services, and benefit society at large.
Speaking about the initiative, HE Khalaf Ahmad Al Habtoor, Founder and Chairman of Al Habtoor Group, said: “We are proud to continue the legacy of our founding fathers, who instilled in us the values of solidarity and generosity that define the UAE. Supporting Al Jalila Foundation reflects our steadfast commitment to advancing healthcare and easing the burdens of kidney patients.
“It is an honour that the renovated nephrology unit will bear the name of the late Mohammed Khalifa Al Suwaidi, paying tribute to his legacy of compassion and philanthropy. Business leaders have a critical role in supporting healthcare systems and driving sustainable development in our society. Investing in healthcare is an investment in a healthier, more prosperous future. I extend my heartfelt thanks to Al Jalila Foundation for their tireless efforts in serving those in need, and I look forward to continuing this impactful partnership.”
Dr. Amer Sharif, Chief Executive Officer of Dubai Health, commented: “We deeply appreciate this generous contribution from HE Khalaf Ahmad Al Habtoor, one of the nation’s most prominent philanthropic leaders. His initiative underscores the importance of community engagement in bolstering the healthcare system and reflects the spirit of giving that is a cornerstone of our society and healthcare vision. This donation will significantly enhance the quality of care for patients while ensuring its sustainability.”
The collective efforts of donors, whether individuals or organisations, play an essential role in saving lives, improving patients’ quality of life, and advancing the healthcare infrastructure to deliver world-class medical services, he added.
Dr. Amer Al Zarooni, Chief Executive Officer of Al Jalila Foundation, said: “This generous support from HE Khalaf Ahmad Al Habtoor will provide free dialysis treatment to a significant number of kidney failure patients through our A’awen patient a treatment programme, designed to offer financial support to those in need. This initiative aligns with Dubai Health's commitment to the ‘Patient First’ promise.”