BCI achieved a flawless result with no findings or non-conformities, marking an exceptional accomplishment

Abu Dhabi, November 13, 2025: In a landmark medical achievement, Burjeel Cancer Institute’s (BCI) Breast Cancer Clinical Care Program has received the Gold Certification from the Joint Commission International (JCI). The JCI Gold Certification, considered a global benchmark in healthcare excellence, is granted only to institutions that demonstrate the highest international standards in clinical care delivery. The accreditation acknowledges BCI’s strong commitment to continuously improving the delivery of quality healthcare services.

As part of the evaluation process, JCI’s expert panel visited the institute for a comprehensive and rigorous assessment. It involved an in-depth review of compliance with 164 measurable standards covering all aspects of cancer care, including leadership and governance, care delivery, patient safety, information and medication management, staff training and competency, as well as patient and family education.

BCI distinguished itself by achieving a flawless result with no findings or non-conformities, marking an exceptional accomplishment that highlights the dedication and professionalism of its team in delivering world-class cancer care.

Commenting on the achievement, Prof. Humaid bin Harmal Al Shamsi, CEO of BCI, said, “Receiving the JCI Gold Certification for our Breast Cancer Program is an international endorsement of the quality of care we provide and our commitment to advancing healthcare excellence in our region. This recognition is not merely an institutional milestone; it is a renewed promise to our patients that we remain devoted to offering comprehensive, safe, and compassionate care that meets global standards. We take pride in leading innovation and excellence in cancer care.”

The certification provides a robust institutional framework to enhance patient experience, improve staff efficiency, and ensure consistent and safe healthcare delivery. It also supports patient-centered care strategies and reinforces the institute’s commitment to addressing the physical, psychological, and social needs of patients and their families.

Established in 1994 as an affiliate of the Joint Commission (USA), Joint Commission International (JCI) is a globally recognized leader in healthcare accreditation. Operating in more than 70 countries, JCI promotes quality improvement and patient safety through rigorous accreditation programs and internationally recognized standards. For more information, visit: www.jointcommissioninternational.org

The Group won awards in the ‘Establishments’ and ‘Outstanding Workforce’ categories, reaffirming its commitment to developing a dynamic and healthy workplace 

Abu Dhabi, November 14, 2025: Strengthening its reputation for workplace excellence, Burjeel Holdings, a leading super-specialty healthcare provider in the MENA region, has secured two awards at the third edition of the prestigious Emirates Labour Market Awards. Organized by the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE), the ceremony was held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice President, Deputy Prime Minister, and Chairman of the Presidential Court. 

In the Establishments category, LLH Hospital, Abu Dhabi, received recognition in the Healthcare Company sub-category. For LLH Hospital, this marks a hat-trick win at the Labour Market Awards. In the inaugural edition, it was honored for its outstanding achievement in Workforce Well-being and the Quality of Life category, followed by the Establishments — Healthcare and Social Work category in the second edition.  

The Group also excelled in the Outstanding Workforce category, with Anas Kadiyarakam, Regional HR Manager at Burjeel Holdings, securing first place in the Management and Executives sub-category. He received a cash prize of one hundred thousand dirhams, an Apple Watch, a gold coin, and a Fazaa privilege card.  

The winners were honoured by His Highness Theyab bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Chairman of the Presidential Court for Development and Fallen Heroes’ Affairs. 

Anas, a first-time recipient of this award, said that it’s a proud milestone in his career. He started his journey at Burjeel Holdings in 2009 as an HR Executive. From there, he was promoted to the roles of HR Officer, Assistant Manager, and then Manager. Currently, he serves as the Regional HR Manager, overseeing hospitals and international projects across the region. “I feel so honored to receive this prestigious award. I consider it a recognition from the UAE for being part of its labor force for the past 16 years. I’m also thankful to the Burjeel family for providing me with amazing opportunities that have catalyzed my career growth and enabled me to contribute to the overall development of the nation. This award also serves as a powerful reminder to continue creating a healthy workplace where people can thrive,” he said. 

Reflecting on the achievement, Dr. Tahani Al Qadiri, Group Director of Emiratization and Academics at Burjeel Holdings, said, “We feel immensely proud to receive this esteemed recognition once again, which honors the continuous efforts we put forward in building an inclusive, sustainable, and empowering workplace. At Burjeel Holdings, we remain focused on investing in our people, as we know they are the driving force behind exceptional care and innovation in healthcare. This honor inspires us to continue cultivating a healthy workforce and, in doing so, contribute to the UAE’s vision of cultivating world-class work environments.” 

The winners, comprising companies and individuals, were chosen from over 18,000 applications, reviewed by expert committees using comprehensive and integrated criteria. 

Over 700 specialists gather at the Fourth Emirates Pediatric BMT and Gene Therapy Congress to share breakthroughs, celebrate treatment success, and strengthen the UAE’s position as a hub for advanced pediatric care. 

Abu Dhabi, November 8, 2025: Reinforcing the UAE’s ambition to emerge as a global leader in advanced pediatric care and its growing reputation as a hub of medical excellence and innovation, Abu Dhabi hosted the Fourth Emirates Pediatric Bone Marrow Transplantation and Gene Therapy Congress, which opened today at the Grand Hyatt Abu Dhabi Hotel & Residences. The two-day congress brings together global leaders in pediatric hematology, oncology, and cellular therapy, underscoring the nation’s vision to position itself at the forefront of complex and life-saving medical treatments. 

This year’s congress, themed “An International Get-Together of Pediatric BMT Physicians to Celebrate the Success of Saving Children Globally,” reflects the spirit of collaboration and shared progress that defines the global pediatric bone marrow transplant community. The theme highlights the dedication of physicians, researchers, and healthcare institutions working together to advance curative treatments for children with rare and life-threatening blood disorders. 

A Two-Day Comprehensive Scientific Program 

The congress brings together more than 700 delegates and over 30 distinguished speakers from across 30 countries, including the United States, the United Kingdom, Spain, France, Italy, Saudi Arabia, India, and Jordan. Participating institutions include Burjeel Medical City (BMC), Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital, Children’s Hospital Los Angeles, and SJD Barcelona Children’s Hospital. 

This year’s congress features a comprehensive scientific program encompassing keynote lectures, expert panels, oral and poster presentations, and industry symposia. Topics being discussed include the latest advances in gene therapy for thalassemia and sickle cell disease, haploidentical and matched sibling transplantation, CAR-T cell therapy, and transplant immunology. Sessions also explore donor stem-cell manipulation, supportive care, long-term survivorship, and regional access to cell and gene therapy innovations. 

The congress also focuses on the UAE’s growing contributions to regional healthcare advancement, including the development of national stem cell donor registries, collaboration with the Abu Dhabi Biobank to enhance cell therapy research, and strategies to increase access to gene therapy and transplantation across the Gulf region. 

Ahead of the main sessions, the Pediatric Bone Marrow Transplant Course 2025 offered intensive hands-on and theoretical training for young clinicians and researchers in pediatric transplantation. Led by international faculty, the course covered donor selection, stem cell harvesting and cryopreservation, conditioning regimens, and post-transplant management, equipping participants with practical skills to strengthen regional capacity. 

“This congress reflects how far we have come as a region in advancing pediatric transplantation and gene therapy. Supporting this significant event, our goal at BMC, is to provide children and families in the UAE and across the region with access to the best possible care, without the need to travel abroad. Along with the treatment center we are strengthening research, and collaboration that drives new standards in pediatric care,” said Dr. Zainul Aabideen, Congress Chair and Head of Pediatric Hematology, Oncology, and Bone Marrow Transplantation at Burjeel Cancer Institute, BMC. 

Dr. Aabideen presented to the delegates how BMC, which became home to the UAE’s first comprehensive pediatric bone marrow transplant program, has achieved survival rates of over 90 percent in the past three years. The milestone underscores Abu Dhabi’s emergence as a regional referral destination for complex pediatric cases and aligns with the UAE’s broader healthcare strategy to build self-sufficiency through advanced clinical capabilities and local talent development. 

Delegates reaffirmed their shared goal of advancing knowledge, expanding research collaboration, and accelerating access to gene therapy for children with rare and inherited disorders. With its focus on innovation, education, and global partnership, the congress celebrates the collective success of pediatric bone marrow transplant programs worldwide and underscores the UAE’s leadership in shaping the future of pediatric medicine. 

KSA Health Minister HE Fahad Abdulrahman AlJalajel, felicitated Dr. Shamsheer Vayalil, Founder and Chairman of the Group, for initiatives advancing healthcare transformation in line with Vision 2030.

Riyadh, October 28, 2025: Burjeel Holdings, a leading super-specialty healthcare services provider in MENA, unveiled a suite of advanced artificial intelligence (AI) solutions at the Global Health Exhibition 2025 in Riyadh, underscoring its commitment to transforming patient care and advancing Saudi Arabia’s healthcare ecosystem.

During the opening ceremony, HE Fahad Abdulrahman AlJalajel, Minister of Health, felicitated Dr. Shamsheer Vayalil, Founder and Chairman of Burjeel Holdings, for the Group’s initiatives that advance healthcare transformation in line with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030.

Integrating Care and Intelligence

Under the theme ‘Care & Intelligence – World-Class Healthcare for the Kingdom,’ Burjeel Holdings is showcasing how technology, data, and empathy converge to redefine healthcare experiences. The Group is demonstrating a new generation of AI-driven innovations designed to elevate patient outcomes, streamline clinical workflows, and support wellness through personalized, data-informed care models.

“The Global Health Exhibition provides an important platform to demonstrate how care and intelligence can come together to reshape the healthcare experience. With these integrated AI-driven healthcare innovations, we are building a smarter, more compassionate healthcare future that meets the evolving needs of our patients and communities. Our goal is to seamlessly blend cutting-edge technology with human-centered care to elevate health outcomes and quality of life across the region,” said Mr. Safeer Ahamed, Co-CEO of Burjeel Holdings.

The newly introduced AI solutions span a wide spectrum of applications, from digital rehabilitation platforms that enable patients to undergo guided physiotherapy from home to intelligent surgical systems that connect specialists virtually to perform and supervise procedures in real time. These innovations combine clinical expertise with automation and analytics to ensure accuracy, safety, and accessibility in every phase of care.

Another key innovation focuses on predictive and personalized health management. Through data modeling and biomarker analysis, the Group’s new digital health platforms can identify early risks, optimize preventive care, and generate tailored lifestyle and nutrition insights. This approach allows clinicians to transition from reactive to proactive care models, improving health outcomes and patient satisfaction.

Advancing Personalized, Preventive, and Mental Health Solutions

In musculoskeletal and rehabilitation care, Burjeel Holdings continues to deploy personalized and digital therapeutics that deliver home-based physiotherapy and pain management programs. These solutions use real-time monitoring to ensure continuous recovery support and data-driven therapy optimization.

In specialty and complex care, the Group continues to advance precision medicine through diagnostic and therapeutic programs that leverage molecular and clinical data. Collaborations

with international partners and ongoing clinical trials are helping bring personalized treatments and innovative therapies to patients across the region.

To promote holistic health and longevity, Burjeel Holdings is introducing digital platforms that combine genetic, biomarker, and lifestyle data to provide actionable insights and personalized recommendations for nutrition, fitness, and preventive care. Complementing these initiatives, the Group is integrating empathetic AI-powered companions that support mental and emotional well-being through guided assistance and culturally attuned digital engagement.

Across its facilities, the Group is also integrating generative AI tools that improve clinical workflows and communication between patients and care teams. These intelligent systems enhance efficiency, safety, and patient experience, reflecting the Group’s vision to make healthcare more connected, compassionate, and data-driven.

Since entering the Kingdom three years ago, Burjeel Holdings has evolved from a regional healthcare leader to a trusted local partner. Its brands, including PhysioTherabia and Al Kalma, have established a strong presence across wellness and mental health services. Al Kalma’s recent acquisition of a leading mental health facility in Riyadh further underscores the Group’s dedication to expanding access to emotional and psychological support. Burjeel Holdings is also preparing to open two new day surgery centers in Riyadh and Al Khobar under its Burjeel One brand, offering world-class outpatient and same-day surgical care.

These innovations reflect Burjeel Holdings’ vision of building a more connected, efficient, and patient-centric healthcare ecosystem across the Kingdom. The solutions are being integrated within the Group’s expanding network across the region to improve access, enhance clinical training, and reduce the burden of chronic and lifestyle-related diseases. These developments reinforce the Group’s role as a key contributor to Saudi Arabia’s efforts to localize advanced healthcare capabilities and expand digital health infrastructure.

Located inside Al Falah Central Mall, the new Center strengthens Burjeel Holdings’ primary care network across Abu Dhabi and connects residents with its world-class healthcare network 

Abu Dhabi, October 24, 2025: Further strengthening its commitment to deliver world-class healthcare within reach of every community in Abu Dhabi, Burjeel Holdings, a leading super-specialty healthcare services provider in MENA, has announced the opening of its newest facility, Burjeel Medical Center, Al Falah. 

H.E. Dr. Saif Sultan Al Nasri, Undersecretary of the Department of Municipalities and Transport, inaugurated the new Center, located inside Al Falah Central Mall. The launch event was attended by H.E. Dr. Fayeza Saif Alyafei, Executive Director of the Healthcare Quality Sector at the Department of Health – Abu Dhabi; Dr. Shamsheer Vayalil, Founder and Chairman of Burjeel Holdings; Omran Al Khoori, Member of the Board of Directors, Burjeel Holdings; and John Sunil, CEO of Burjeel Holdings. 

The launch of Burjeel Medical Center, Al Falah, marks a significant step in Burjeel Holdings’ strategy to strengthen its network of primary care centers across Abu Dhabi. The new facility reinforces the Group’s goal of building a seamless and connected healthcare ecosystem where residents can access trusted medical care within their neighborhoods and, when needed, benefit from referrals and continuity of care through Burjeel’s hospitals and specialized centers. The new Center is further connected with Burjeel Medical City, the Group’s flagship quaternary care center, ensuring patients have access to advanced specialty and complex care services within the same integrated network. 

Al Falah’s strong community spirit and family-oriented lifestyle make it an ideal location for Burjeel to expand its compassionate and comprehensive healthcare model. The Center is expected to elevate the healthcare landscape in the area by offering accessible, family-centered medical services that promote wellness, prevention, and early intervention. With a focus on family health, continuity of care, and personalized service, the Center seeks to build healthier and happier neighborhoods across Abu Dhabi. 

The facility offers a wide range of specialties, including Family Medicine, Internal Medicine, Pediatrics, and Obstetrics and Gynecology. Notably, mental health and wellness services are integrated into primary care, ensuring patients receive holistic support that addresses both physical and emotional well-being as part of their everyday healthcare journey. The Center is equipped with advanced diagnostic and support services, including Ultrasound, X-Ray, IV infusions, pharmacy, phlebotomy, and point-of-care testing. Additionally, it offers preventive screenings, smoking cessation programs, autism screening and support, and immunization and vaccination services. 

John Sunil, CEO of Burjeel Holdings, said the new Center represents a key milestone in the Group’s ongoing mission to strengthen the primary care foundation of Abu Dhabi’s healthcare system. “At Burjeel Holdings, we believe primary care is the cornerstone of a strong healthcare network. By expanding our reach through centers like Burjeel Medical Center, Al Falah, we are ensuring that every community has access to trusted medical expertise and smooth referral pathways into our specialized hospitals. This approach not only improves access but also enhances the overall patient experience through continuity and quality of care,” said John Sunil. 

Dr. Khuloud Al Zubaidi, Medical Director and Specialist in Family Medicine, said, “Our aim is to bring the highest standard of healthcare right into the community, so families can receive expert care without having to travel far. We want every visit to be defined by trust, accessibility, and personalized attention.” 

Beyond clinical services, the Center will play an active role in community engagement. It will lead year-long programs focused on preventive care, early detection, and health awareness, hosting educational sessions and screening campaigns to encourage residents to prioritize their well-being and adopt healthier lifestyles.

With nine successful surgeries, the 10 Journeys Initiative, the humanitarian program initiated by Dr. Shamsheer Vayalil, continues to transform lives across the world 

Abu Dhabi, October 09, 2025: When Australian dog trainer Amanda De Jong first began losing control of her left leg, she thought it would pass. But within days, her foot twisted inward, and soon every step became a battle with unbearable pain. Once an athlete trained for marathons, Amanda suddenly found herself unable to walk, trapped in a body that refused to cooperate. After years of failed treatments, she made an unimaginable choice, to have her leg amputated below the knee in the hope of finding freedom from pain. 

Her journey eventually brought her to Abu Dhabi, where she became one of the latest beneficiaries of the 10 Journeys Initiative, a humanitarian program launched by Dr. Shamsheer Vayalil, Founder and Chairman of Burjeel Holdings. The initiative offers 10 free advanced osseointegration prosthetic surgeries for amputees who have lost limbs due to reasons including trauma, illness, or conflict. 

Valued at AED 4 million, the program was introduced as a tribute to Sham and Omar, two children who survived the 2023 Syrian earthquake and were treated at Burjeel Medical City (BMC). All surgeries are performed at BMC’s Al Muderis Osseointegration Clinic, led by world-renowned orthopedic surgeon Prof. Dr. Munjed Al Muderis. Using osseointegration, a technique that anchors a titanium implant directly to the bone, patients gain stability, comfort, and the ability to walk more naturally. With Amanda’s case and two others completed recently, a total of nine patients has now undergone surgery through the initiative. 

Amanda’s fight for independence 

Amanda, 36, had always been active and loved her work training assistance dogs. But after developing Complex Regional Pain Syndrome, her life changed completely. “It reached a point where I cried every morning before getting out of bed,” she said. Over six years, she tried everything from physiotherapy and hydrotherapy to braces and multiple medications. “Nothing worked. Not even a little bit,” Amanda added. 

Living with autism made her situation even more challenging, as she could not tolerate the pressure and heat caused by a traditional socket prosthesis. “The sensory discomfort would have been too much to handle,” she explained. 

Her condition forced her to stop working. Her husband was also unable to work. This sudden loss of income left the family dependent on government aid, making life even harder. “I was the only one supporting our family,” Amanda said. “When I couldn’t work anymore, everything fell apart. We had to survive on subsidies, and there were days I didn’t know what would come next.” 

When she learned about the 10 Journeys Initiative, Amanda saw a lifeline. She travelled to Abu Dhabi alone because her family could not afford to accompany her, leaving behind her husband and home. “From the moment I walked in, everyone at Burjeel was kind and welcoming. The care here is beyond anything I have ever seen,” she said. 

Now, after her surgery, she dreams of returning to dog training and hopes to run again someday. “This surgery has given me the chance to chase life again,” she said quietly. 

A soldier’s second chance 

Steven Doolan, 38, from the United Kingdom, remembers every detail of the day that changed his life. A proud infantry soldier, he was on patrol in Helmand Province, Afghanistan, when an IED exploded beneath him. “I remember the blast, the sound, and then silence. When I looked down, I knew my leg was gone,” he said. Steven lost his right leg in the blast.  

The explosion ended his eight-year military career in an instant. For months, he fought through grueling rehabilitation, learning to walk again with a prosthetic limb. “I was young, strong, and thought I could handle anything, but losing a limb tests you in ways you can’t imagine,” Steven said. 

For more than a decade, he used socket prosthetics that caused pain and discomfort. “On hot days, it would come loose, and I’d have to stop walking. I’d pretend I was fine in front of my kids, but deep down it broke me not being able to play with them or go on family trips without worrying my leg would fall off,” he recalled.  

Steven’s three children, aged 16, 13, and 9, became his motivation to keep pushing. “They never saw me broken. They just wanted their dad to be happy,” he said. When he learned he had been selected for the 10 Journeys Initiative, he said it felt like a new chapter after years of fighting. 

After his surgery, Steven is already regaining strength and balance. “Now I can dream again about running with my kids, going to work, doing things without pain,” he said. “This has given me a chance to be the dad I want to be.” 

Louis’s story of survival 

For Louis Leitao, 68, from Denver, Colorado, life changed just one week after he retired from a 35-year career as a glazier. It was supposed to be a day of simple work on a friend’s ranch. Instead, his parked truck rolled forward and pinned him underneath. He was trapped for nearly 20 hours, alone in the cold. “I screamed until I had no voice left. At one point, I prayed for the pain to stop, even if it meant the end,” he recalled. As the night stretched on, his leg went numb, and his body began to shut down. 

When rescuers finally found him the next morning, his relief was overwhelming. “Hearing the sheriff call my name was the sweetest sound I’ve ever heard,” he said. Louis was airlifted to a trauma center, where doctors amputated his left leg and fought to save his kidneys, which had begun to fail. He spent days on dialysis before his condition stabilized. 

Louis had built his life around physical work and the outdoors. “I used to hike, fish, and walk my dogs every day,” he said. “After the accident, that all stopped. I felt trapped again, this time in a wheelchair.” 

A short residual limb made socket prosthetics unbearable. “I didn’t want to spend my remaining years fighting with pain and poorly fitted prosthetics. Osseointegration gave me a second chance,” he said. At BMC, Louis underwent surgery and is now learning to walk again. He dreams of returning to the mountains, holding a fishing rod, and feeling the ground beneath his feet. 

Prof. Dr. Munjed Al Muderis, who performed the surgeries, said every patient’s recovery shows how advanced technology can transform lives. “Each of these people came here carrying years of pain, loss, and hope. Through osseointegration, we are helping them regain movement and independence,” he said. 

The 10 Journeys Initiative now counts nine patients from across continents among its beneficiaries, including Massimo Castellani (50) from Italy, Alan Mai (49) from Taiwan, Hasnain Ali (24) from Iraq, Anas Jebeihi (30) from Palestine, Joshua Arnold (29) from the United States, and Sharon Cherian (33) from India. 

Hosted by Burjeel Holdings’ Trust Fertility Clinic, the two-day conference explores the emerging techniques and trends in fertility care 

Abu Dhabi, Saturday 13 September 2025: As part of its mission to enhance fertility care in the region, Burjeel Holdings has commenced the Trust Fertility & Gynecology Conference 2025, bringing together leading international and regional experts in reproductive medicine, gynecology, embryology, and fertility technology. Hosted by the Group’s Trust Fertility Clinic, the largest fertility center in the UAE, the inaugural two-day conference is themed ‘Building Trust in Fertility Innovation’ and serves as a platform to exchange knowledge, explore emerging techniques, and discuss ethical frameworks in fertility care. 

The conference was inaugurated by H.E Dr. Sedra Rashed AlMansoori, Member of the Federal National Council (UAE), Member of the Inter-Parliamentary Union Health Committee, and Consultant Family Physician. “Here in the UAE, the subject of this conference is closely aligned with our national priorities. The leadership has declared this year as the ‘Year of Community’, and a dedicated Ministry of Family has been established to enhance stability and cohesion. Her Highness Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak, the ‘Mother of the Nation’, has long championed family development, child welfare, and women’s empowerment. The UAE, alongside leading institutions such as Burjeel Holdings, has placed fertility and family well-being at the heart of its agenda,” said H.E Dr. Sedra, inaugurating the conference, 

The opening ceremony was also attended by members of the Federal National Council, including H.E. Dr. Amal Al-Haddabi, H.E. Mariam AlZaabi, and H.E. Asma bint Mana Al Otaiba, along with Mr. John Sunil, CEO of Burjeel Holdings, and other senior officials. 

Expert-Led Insights into the Future of Fertility Care 

The two-day conference will bring more than 50 global experts and delegates from over 25 countries for expert-led sessions aimed at enhancing skills and advancing knowledge in reproductive health. It will feature 20 research papers and 19 scientific sessions covering a comprehensive range of topics related to fertility.  

Prior to the conference, six specialized workshops were conducted, offering hands-on training in AI applications in IVF laboratories, hysteroscopy for fertility, Ovarian Tissue Cryopreservation, laparoscopic fertility surgery, and other complex procedures. 

“By bringing global fertility experts together, we are pushing the boundaries of science and technology while fulfilling our commitment to every family who entrusts us with their greatest hope,” said Mr. John Sunil, CEO of Burjeel Holdings. 

Key speakers of the conference include Prof. Alison Campbell, Chief Scientific Officer, CARE Fertility Group, UK, who recently developed an award-winning AI tool to support embryo selection; Prof. Horace Roman, who presented fertility-preserving surgical techniques in endometriosis; and Prof. Osama Shawki, recognized for his innovations in hysteroscopy. Experts from Sheikh Khalifa University are also contributing, providing interdisciplinary perspectives on AI applications in reproductive health. 

“From sperm and embryo selection to preservation techniques, cutting-edge technologies are already demonstrating their ability to enhance key stages of IVF. In the future, the integration of science and technology will allow us to deliver more precise, personalized, and effective treatments. The conference will provide an insightful perspective on this ongoing evolution,” said Dr. Walid Sayed, Group Medical Director, Trust Fertility Clinic. 

Prof. Ahmed Elbohoty, Conference Chairman and Consultant in Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Medicine, Trust Fertility Clinic, added that the conference is a unique opportunity to chart the roadmap for the safe and responsible adoption of AI in fertility practices. The insights and evidence presented here will help shape the way the technology is integrated into clinical practice, he noted. 

The new programs mark a milestone in advancing medical education and training in the UAE  

Abu Dhabi, 08 September 2025: Burjeel Holdings, a leading super-specialty healthcare provider in the MENA region, has received accreditation from the National Institute for Health Specialties (NIHS) for its Internal Medicine and General Surgery residency programs. These accreditations add to the Group’s previously approved programs in Orthopedics and the Hematology-Oncology Fellowship, further strengthening its portfolio of specialized medical education offerings. 

As part of this milestone, Burjeel Holdings also announced the launch of its post-graduate residency and fellowship programs across four key medical streams. These programs reflect the Group’s commitment to nurturing the next generation of healthcare professionals and advancing the UAE’s position as a hub for world-class medical training. The announcement was made during the graduation ceremony of the sixth batch of the Medical Internship Program in Abu Dhabi, which was attended by prominent dignitaries including Dr. Mohammed Al Houqani, Secretary General of the National Institute for Health Specialties (NIHS); Dr. Hatem Faraj Al Ameri, Director of the Division of Healthcare Workforce Monitoring at the Department of Health, Mr. Omran Al Khoori, Member of the Board of Directors, Burjeel Holdings; Mr. John Sunil, CEO of Burjeel Holdings; and Dr. Anwar Sallam, Group Designated Institutional Official (DIO), Burjeel Holdings. 

“The addition of these residency and fellowship programs reflects the NIHS vision to strengthen postgraduate medical education in the UAE. By working with partners such as Burjeel Holdings, we are creating structured pathways to train highly skilled specialists who will contribute significantly to the nation’s healthcare ecosystem,” said Dr. Mohammed Al Houqani. 

This milestone builds on Burjeel Holdings’ long-standing commitment to nurturing the next generation of healthcare professionals. The internship program, which began in 2018, has successfully trained hundreds of young doctors, including 33 graduates in the most recent batch. With the addition of the new residency and fellowship programs, the Group welcomed a total of 60 trainees this year. 

Mr. John Sunil, CEO of Burjeel Holdings, said, “The launch of our residency and fellowship programs is a pivotal step toward building a sustainable healthcare workforce in the UAE. By investing in structured training and education, we are enhancing the quality of care while fostering long-term resilience, driving innovation, and aligning with national healthcare priorities.” 

The new programs will span four to five years. Training will be conducted across Burjeel Medical City (BMC), Burjeel Hospital in Abu Dhabi, and Burjeel Royal Hospital in Al Ain. Six Burjeel Holdings hospitals have been accredited by the NIHS and DOH as teaching hospitals, and the new programs have also received accreditation in recent months. 

Dr. Tahani Al Qadri, Group Director of Emiratization and Academics at Burjeel Holdings, said that this achievement reflects Burjeel Holdings’ commitment to advancing medical education in the UAE. “By launching these residency and fellowship programs, we are nurturing the next generation of specialists and creating meaningful pathways for local talent to thrive. Our goal is to position Burjeel as a trusted partner in shaping the UAE into a regional hub for excellence in medical education and clinical training,” she added.   

From Palestine to the US to India, the UAE’s pioneering prosthetic program is transforming lives through cutting-edge osseointegration surgeries at Burjeel Medical City.

Abu Dhabi, August 27, 2025: Within three months of announcing the ‘10 Journeys’ initiative — a tribute to the courage of Sham and Omar, two children who survived the 2022 Syrian earthquake and were later treated at Burjeel Medical City (BMC) — the medical team led by internationally renowned orthopedic surgeon Prof. Dr. Munjed Al Muderis has successfully performed the first free, life-changing surgeries.

Three young men from Palestine, the United States, and India, each of whom suffered devastating accidents, were the first beneficiaries of the AED 4 million program launched by Dr. Shamsheer Vayalil, Founder and Chairman of Burjeel Holdings. Conducted at the Al Muderis Osseointegration Clinic in BMC, the beneficiaries were selected based on their medical needs and financial situations. Seven more individuals will undergo the procedure in the coming months.

Osseointegration is a breakthrough surgical technique that anchors prosthetic limbs directly to the skeleton, offering patients greater stability, improved comfort, and enhanced quality of life. Unlike traditional socket prosthetics, osseointegration eliminates discomfort and skin complications, while also providing osseoperception — the ability to sense surfaces through the prosthetic.

A Childhood Shattered, A Future Rebuilt

Anas Jebeihi lost his left leg and right eye at the age of 12 when a grenade exploded in his hands in the West Bank. The surgery in Abu Dhabi was a turning point for the 30-year-old. “When I got a call from Dr. Munjed’s team, I started dancing on the street. I knew it was going to be a life-changing moment,” he said.

Raised in the Tulkarm refugee camp, Anas endured years of hardship but pursued his education and is completing a master’s degree in electrical engineering. “My first prosthetic was in the UAE with the support of an initiative by His Highness Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, and now my first osseointegration is also here. This country has become a place of healing for me. I want to use my story to show other amputees that advanced treatments like this can transform lives,” he added.

From the US to the UAE for a New Beginning

Joshua Arnold, 29, lost his right arm and vision in his left eye in a motorcycle accident in 2024. He traveled from Louisiana to Abu Dhabi with his fiancée, Alyssa, to undergo surgery. “This opportunity is truly life-changing. I knew I had to make this journey because it meant I would finally have a chance to live again,” Joshua said.

With socket prosthetics proving painful and limiting, osseointegration has given him renewed independence. Praising the UAE’s healthcare and compassion, he said, “From the moment I arrived, I was treated with respect and care.” Joshua will continue rehabilitation at the Paley Orthopedic & Spine Institute in Florida and plans to return to the UAE next year to celebrate his honeymoon.

A Decade of Struggle Ends in Hope

Sharon Cheriyan, 33, lost his right leg following a road accident in 2013. For more than a decade, he relied on a walking stick and struggled to find acceptance. He learned about osseointegration three years ago but could not afford it. The ‘10 Journeys’ Initiative became the turning point in his life. “One day, I got an email saying Dr. Shamsheer Vayalil has launched an initiative to provide free osseointegration surgeries. When I saw his name, I didn’t have a second thought. I knew this was my chance,” Sharon recalled.

His mother and cousin accompanied him to Abu Dhabi. “When I got here, I felt a sense of dignity. The care and compassion I experienced from the staff here were unlike anything I’ve seen before,” he said. Sharon, who helps run his family’s catering business in Kerala, hopes to rebuild his career and explore opportunities in the UAE.

Prof. Dr. Munjed Al Muderis has been at the forefront of osseointegration since performing his first independent surgery in 2009. Since then, he has successfully treated more than 1,200 amputees at his clinics in Australia.

“These are unique cases, and we are proud to support them. All these young patients have their good days ahead. In our initial clinical analysis of cases we have received, we found Anas, Joshua, and Sharon are the best match for the surgery. They are recovering well and will be on prosthetics and rehabilitation in the coming weeks,” said Prof. Dr. Munjed.

The selection committee is reviewing additional applications. The remaining surgeries will be conducted at BMC in the months ahead.

On World Organ Donation Day, Baby Ahmed Yahya’s survival from an ultra-rare genetic disorder shines a light on the life-saving impact of living organ donation.

Abu Dhabi, August 13, 2025: Burjeel Medical City (BMC), the flagship facility of Burjeel Holdings, has successfully performed the UAE’s youngest infant liver transplant, saving the life of five-month-old Baby Ahmed Yahya, who was diagnosed with an ultra-rare genetic disorder. This milestone surgery was made possible through the living liver donation of his aunt and the expertise of a highly skilled multidisciplinary team.

A Second Chance After Heartbreak

For parents Yahya and Zainab Al Yassi, this year’s World Organ Donation Day carries profound personal meaning. Baby Ahmed, their fifth child, is the couple’s first surviving boy after the loss of another son, also named Ahmed in honor of his grandfather, to liver disease in 2010. When the newborn’s liver enzyme levels rose shortly after birth, doctors diagnosed him with ATP6AP1-related congenital disorder of glycosylation, a genetic condition with fewer than 25 known cases worldwide.

“This disease is a severe, multisystem condition that particularly affects the liver. In Ahmed’s case, the disorder was progressing rapidly toward liver failure. Given the rarity of the condition, there were no clear answers, only tough questions. Yet we had to act,” said Dr. Johns Shaji Mathew, Abdominal Transplant and Hepato-Pancreatico-Biliary Surgeon at BMC.

Due to his critical condition, an urgent liver transplant became the only option. To avoid delays, the family sought a living donor. Ms. Haifaa, Ahmed’s aunt and the wife of his father’s brother, stepped forward and was found to be a perfect match.

“I still remember the pain when we lost our first son to liver disease. When we heard our second son had a similar problem, I thought this was our destiny. But the doctors at BMC gave us new hope. And my sister-in-law gave us life again,” said Yahya.

“I read everything I could find about organ donation. I realized that donating part of my liver could save his life, and I knew I had to do it. It is a bond that nothing in this world can break,” said Ahmed’s aunt.

A Complex Procedure

The transplant took place on April 4, 2025. Led by Dr. Gourab Sen, Director – Transplant Surgery, Burjeel Abdominal Multi-Organ Transplant Program, and Dr. Johns Shaji Mathew, the surgical team prepared a mono-segment graft from the donor’s liver to fit the infant’s small abdominal cavity. Pediatric anesthesia was managed by Dr. Ramamurthy Baskaran, Division Chair of Anesthesia, along with Dr. George Jacob and Dr. Anshu S. Postoperative care was led by Dr. Kesava Ramakrishnan, Consultant, Pediatric Intensive Care Unit, and his team.

“This was a precision operation that lasted 12 hours, including the donor and the recipient surgery. We used a mono-segment graft, a tiny part of the donor’s liver, shaped exactly to fit the baby’s anatomy. In an infant this small, every structure is delicate beyond imagination, each vessel was thinner than a matchstick, and the margin for error was virtually zero,” said Dr. Gourab.

Following the operation, Ahmed was extubated soon, began feeding within days, and showed excellent liver function. Pediatric intensivists, gastroenterologists, dietitians, radiologists, and rehabilitation specialists supported his recovery. He will continue to receive specialized nutritional support, immune monitoring, and family counseling under BMC’s long-term care program.

“My baby’s recovery is nothing short of a miracle. We were once a family living in fear of losing another child, but today, we are celebrating a second chance at life. I hope our story inspires others to come forward, to learn more, and to consider becoming donors. You never know whose life you might change,” said Yahya.

The HAYAT National Program invites the public to learn more about related living organ donation, where a healthy person donates to a family member in need. This life-saving act can shorten waiting times and transform lives. Speak with your healthcare provider and discover how you can give the gift of life.

For more information on how to register as an organ donor,

Visit: Hayat Organ Donation Program | Ministry of Health and Prevention (mohap.gov.ae)