Abu Dhabi: Al Wahda Football Club has announced the renewal of its partnership agreement with Burjeel Hospital, Abu Dhabi. This partnership continues to provide healthcare and specialized medical services to the club’s athletes.

Burjeel Hospital, the leading tertiary care hospital under Burjeel Holdings, is renowned for its top doctors and advanced equipment in sports medicine, ensuring high-quality medical care for the club’s members. This collaboration will enhance the athletes’ health and contribute to improving their athletic performance, aligning with the club’s strategy to provide a healthy and supportive environment for its players.

This step is a result of the strong relationship between the club and Burjeel and the mutual benefits achieved over the past years. The agreement stipulates that the hospital will offer comprehensive medical solutions and care for players, including medical evaluations before sports competitions, treatment and care for injuries, support for first responders at sports events, and medical care for players and sports team members at all facilities.

Abdullah Salem Al Junaibi, CEO of Al Wahda Club, expressed his satisfaction with renewing the medical sponsorship agreement with Burjeel Hospital, noting that this agreement enhances the club’s efforts to provide the best healthcare for its players. He emphasized that the partnership with Burjeel Hospital, known for its extensive experience and advanced sports medicine facilities, will significantly contribute to maintaining player safety and improving performance. He added that this step reflects the club’s commitment to providing a healthy and supportive environment for all its members.

John Sunil, CEO of Burjeel Holding, stated, “At Burjeel, we are committed to advancing the health and well-being of our community. Through our ongoing partnership with Al Wahda Sports and Cultural Club, we provide world-class healthcare services to both athletes and staff.  Together, we are building a healthier, stronger community, ensuring that all club members receive the highest quality of care.”

Al Dhafra, August 07, 2024: As part of its mission to provide the community with accessible, high-quality patient care and enhance holistic community wellness, Burjeel Holdings, a leading super-specialty healthcare services provider in MENA, has launched the first dedicated Day Surgery Center in the Al Dhafra region. The center in Madinat Zayed’s Al Dhafra Mall was inaugurated by His Excellency Nasser Mohammed Al Mansouri, Undersecretary of the Ruler’s Representative Court in Al Dhafra Region. 

The ceremony was also attended by Mohammad Ali Al-Mansouri, Director General, Al Dhafra Region Municipality; His Excellency Hamdan Saif al-Mansouri, Director of the Al-Dhafra Police Directorate; Dr. Shamsheer Vayalil, Founder and Chairman of Burjeel Holdings; Mr. Omran Al Khoori, Executive Board Member of Burjeel Holdings; Dr. Ghuwaya Al Neyadi, Senior Vice President, Group Medical and Wellbeing, ADNOC, and Non-Executive Director at Burjeel Holdings; Mr. John Sunil, CEO of Burjeel Holdings; and other officials.

“The launch of the Burjeel Day Surgery Center marks a significant step in advancing healthcare services in Al Dhafra, playing a vital role in serving the region’s residents. It aligns with the vision of our wise leadership to provide world-class healthcare and promote a healthier, more resilient society,” said H.E. Nasser Mohammed Al Mansouri.

With a patient-centric approach and a wide array of specialties under one roof, Burjeel Day Surgery Center focuses on outpatient procedures that ensure quick recovery and minimal hospital stays. This center is the fourth day surgery center launched by Burjeel Holdings in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi, designed to meet the area’s specific geographic needs and population characteristics.

The center’s opening aligns with Burjeel’s expansion plan in the region, supported by Burjeel Medical City (BMC), the Group’s flagship quaternary hospital. It will complement ADNOC’s Al Dhannah Hospital, operated by BMC, providing integrated care with seamless coordination. Patients can access a wide range of complex care services through the Burjeel Holdings network.

“The opening of the dedicated Day Surgery Center is part of our commitment to scaling up the healthcare infrastructure to meet the growing demands of the Al Dhafra region of Abu Dhabi. Beyond enhancing healthcare services, the center will create numerous opportunities for the local community in medical, administrative, and support roles,” said Mr. John Sunil, CEO of Burjeel Holdings.

Led by board-certified doctors, Burjeel Day Surgery Center has state-of-the-art facilities to meet a wide range of medical needs. The center offers comprehensive services across 13 specialties: Cardiology, Pediatrics, General Surgery, Orthopedic Surgery, Gastroenterology, Obstetrics and Gynecology, Dental, Dermatology, Family Medicine, Internal Medicine, Otolaryngology, Urology, and Pathology. With cutting-edge medical technologies for advanced diagnostic and therapeutic procedures, the center includes comprehensive radiology services such as CT scans, X-rays, and ultrasound and a robust physiotherapy and rehabilitation department.

Dr. Marwan Abdelatif Ali Ismail, Specialist in Family Medicine and Medical Director, said, “From minor surgeries to specialized treatments and preventive care, the Burjeel Day Surgery Center in Al Dhafra offers a comprehensive range of services. The center is staffed by a team of highly skilled healthcare professionals dedicated to delivering compassionate, high-quality care. Our experts stay updated on the latest medical advancements with continuous training and development, ensuring optimal patient outcomes.”

By establishing healthcare facilities tailored to community needs, the center enhances health literacy through targeted initiatives that educate and empower the population, fostering a more informed and healthier community. It also aims to improve patient experience and well-being through community-led healthcare initiatives. The center features a robust screening program offering pediatric vaccinations to safeguard children’s health and provides chronic disease management in specialized areas such as cardiology, family medicine, and diabetic endocrinology.

Abu Dhabi, UAE : Burjeel Holdings, a leading super-specialty healthcare services provider in MENA, has launched the 24/7 Burjeel Airport Clinic at Zayed International Airport. This state-of-the-art clinic is set to enhance and streamline healthcare services for airport staff and passengers, ensuring their health and safety around the clock. 

Burjeel Airport Clinic was inaugurated in the presence of Dr. Shamsheer Vayalil, Founder and Chairman of Burjeel Holdings; Elena Sorlini, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer at Abu Dhabi Airports; Mr. John Sunil, CEO of Burjeel Holdings; and Mr. Safeer Ahamed, Group COO of Burjeel Holdings.

The Burjeel Airport Clinic is staffed with highly qualified doctors and allied medical professionals ready to address a wide range of health concerns. The clinic is equipped to address acute conditions that may arise during travel, with more complex cases to be referred to the world-class facilities that are part of Burjeel’s expansive network. The clinic also offers occupational and preventive care, and health screenings. It is equipped to perform ECG services, infusions, injections, and consultations for women. For patients requiring extended monitoring, a patient observation room is available. 

Elena Sorlini, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer at Abu Dhabi Airports commented: “The health and well-being of both our staff and passengers remains our top priority. We are proud to partner with Burjeel Holdings to open this cutting-edge clinic, ensuring that everyone has access to expert medical care whenever they need it, while further enhancing our offerings and strengthening our commitment to a safe and secure environment for everyone at Zayed International Airport.”

“Our goal is to provide top-notch medical services to everyone at the airport, ensuring that both travelers and staff have access to high-quality healthcare whenever they need it. By serving passengers from across the globe, we highlight the world-class treatment options that the UAE offers and support Abu Dhabi’s medical tourism ambitions,” said Mr. John Sunil, CEO of Burjeel Holdings. 

In addition to general medical services, the clinic offers vaccination assistance, helping travelers and airport personnel stay protected against various illnesses. The Burjeel Airport Clinic will also ensure guests have immediate access to healthcare without needing to leave the airport, maximizing safety and minimizing the potential travel disruptions for those seeking treatment. The clinic will also serve layover passengers traveling through the airport, ensuring their healthcare needs are met during their stopover.

Zayed International Airport is a world-class transportation hub with the capacity to welcome up to 45 million passengers per year. It integrates the latest biometric and screening technology to create a seamless passenger experience from door to destination.

Abu Dhabi: Burjeel Holdings has achieved a significant milestone by receiving institutional accreditation from the National Institute for Health Specialties (NIHS), a prestigious accreditation program in the UAE. Burjeel Holdings is the first private entity in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi to obtain this accreditation as a group.

The accreditation was officially conferred by Dr. Mohammed Al-Houqani, Secretary General of NIHS, during a ceremony attended by Dr. Rashed Obaid Alsuwaidi, Executive Director of Healthcare Workforce Planning Sector, Department of Health – Abu Dhabi, and senior officials from the Group.

Dr. Mohammed Al-Houqani emphasized the significance of this achievement, stating, “The institutional accreditation for Burjeel Holdings represents a major accomplishment aligned with the UAE’s vision to enhance the quality of medical education, training, and the qualification of healthcare workers according to the highest evaluation standards.”

Six institutions under the Group’s umbrella have been accredited as teaching hospitals, including Burjeel Medical City, Burjeel Hospital Abu Dhabi, Al Dhannah Hospital, Medeor Hospital, Burjeel Royal Hospital, Al Ain, and Burjeel Royal Hospital, Asharej.

Expressing pride in this remarkable achievement, Mr. John Sunil, CEO of Burjeel Holdings, said, “We are honored to receive this prestigious accreditation, which will pave the way for us to deliver specialized medical education programs of the highest quality. This achievement aligns with our vision and goals of enriching the healthcare sector in the UAE by cultivating a highly skilled healthcare workforce trained locally.”

The Group plans to introduce a range of residency and fellowship programs in medical specialties, along with specialized nursing programs, in collaboration with regulatory authorities in the Emirate.

This accreditation has been granted after Burjeel Holdings fulfilled the instructional standards set by NIHS, including completing accreditation application requirements, meeting evaluative field visit criteria, and providing necessary information and data for training programs.

Under the leadership of His Highness the President, the UAE is committed to providing the best healthcare to all’: Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak. The institute will offer world-class services to enhance cancer care in the country

Abu Dhabi, UAE – July 05, 2024: His Excellency Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, Minister of Tolerance and Coexistence, has inaugurated the Burjeel Cancer Institute (BCI) in Mohammed bin Zayed City, Abu Dhabi. Launched by Burjeel Holdings, a leading super-specialty healthcare services provider in MENA, BCI consolidates one of the largest cancer care networks in the UAE. Located within Burjeel Medical City, the institute aims to offer advanced cancer treatments for patients in the UAE and beyond.

Following the opening of the institute, H.E. Sheikh Nahyan said, “The UAE, under the directives of His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the President (may God protect him), is committed to providing the best healthcare and medical services to all. Caring for cancer patients in the UAE is a top priority. We understand that the foundation of a prosperous society lies in the health and well-being of its people. We are committed to advancing medical knowledge and ensuring the highest standards of healthcare. Cancer care is one of the areas where we focus on early diagnosis and implementing the most effective treatments.”

H.E. Sheikh Nahyan stressed the importance of sustaining the fight against cancer by addressing any delays in translating clinical discoveries and innovations into available treatments. According to him, medical access to these technologies and practices will increase public confidence in obtaining advanced diagnostic and treatment services.

H.E. Sheikh Nahyan highlighted the need for cooperation between multiple stakeholders in confronting a global challenge such as cancer. He added, “The facilities hosted by the UAE, such as the BCI, reflect our dedication to providing comprehensive and innovative care for cancer patients. Their unique vision includes not only treatment but also prevention, early detection, and patient education.”

The launch ceremony was attended by Dr. Shamsheer Vayalil, Founder and Chairman of Burjeel Holdings; Mr. John Sunil, CEO of Burjeel Holdings; Mr. Omran Al Khoori, Executive Board Member of Burjeel Holdings; Mr. Safeer Ahamed, Group COO of Burjeel Holdings; Ms. Aysha Al Mahri, Deputy CEO of Burjeel Medical City; a delegation from the Department of Health – Abu Dhabi (DoH); medical staff; cancer survivors; and their families. The institute is headed by accomplished Emirati oncologist Prof. Humaid Al Shamsi.

A Leader in Cancer Care

BCI is the center of Burjeel’s cancer care network, which comprises facilities in Abu Dhabi, Al Ain, Al Dhafra, Sharjah, and Dubai. Annually, the network caters to over 5,000 oncology patients, performs more than 10,000 screenings, and conducts 10,000+ radiotherapy sessions with the expertise of over 50 specialists.

BCI’s dedicated tower offers state-of-the-art facilities across four floors, featuring private chemotherapy suites, specialty clinics, a dedicated breast cancer unit, and patient-centric facilities. It integrates chemotherapy, immunotherapy, surgical oncology, stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS), and stereotactic body radiotherapy (SBRT) to offer a seamless experience for patients. The institute offers cutting-edge treatments such as targeted therapy, precision medicine, advanced surgical techniques, and state-of-the-art radiation therapy as well as AI-driven cancer diagnosis and management.

Dr. Shamsheer Vayalil, Founder and Chairman of Burjeel Holdings, said, “The launch of BCI marks a significant milestone in our journey to provide world-class cancer care within the UAE. We are committed to ensuring that patients receive the best possible care, supported by advanced technology and research. We believe that BCI will transform cancer treatment and significantly improve patient outcomes.”

Integrating Diagnostics and Research

BCI incorporates advanced diagnostic capabilities through OncoHelix-CoLab to perform specialized tests locally and utilize technologies like Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS), Droplet Digital PCR, and Multi-color Flow Cytometry. This integration is expected to enhance diagnostic precision and efficiency, leading to improved patient outcomes.

BCI is also equipped to conduct high-quality clinical trials and translational research, fostering advancements in cancer understanding and treatment. Collaborations with international cancer research institutions and pharmaceutical companies are expected to pave the way for patients to access the latest innovations in cancer care.

Prof. Humaid Al Shamsi, CEO, Burjeel Cancer Institute, said, “BCI is a hub of hope, capable of offering comprehensive and holistic cancer care. By integrating advanced diagnostic tools and cutting-edge treatments under one roof, we aim to provide a seamless and patient-centric experience. Our focus is on enhancing the quality of life for our patients and their families.”

BCI will set up a medical education program to enhance oncology education, support research, and develop residency and fellowship programs in collaboration with local and global institutions. The institute will also focus on community engagement through awareness campaigns, educational seminars, and cancer screening programs.

BCI is poised to transform cancer care in the UAE and the region, offering world-class treatment options that will attract international patients seeking advanced and comprehensive care.

Recognition highlights the success of comprehensive diversity, equity and inclusion strategies aligned with sustainable ESG integration 

Abu Dhabi, 10 June 2024: In recognition of advancing workplace inclusivity, Burjeel Holdings, a leading super-specialty healthcare services provider in MENA, has emerged as the gold winner in the Diversity & Inclusion Initiative category at the Employee Happiness Awards, the premier HR recognition in the UAE. The Group was also a finalist in the Best Wellness Initiative category for its Burjeel Games and Wellness Program. The accolades reflect the healthcare provider’s commitment to fostering a diverse, equitable, and inclusive workplace environment. 

“Burjeel Holdings prioritizes an open and inclusive working environment, ensuring equal treatment regardless of ethnicity, religion, age, disability, or gender. With a focus on building a disability-inclusive company, they have enhanced physical accessibility in their premises and implemented a flexible working model to support individuals with disabilities,” highlighted the citation while revealing the winner at the ceremony held in Dubai.  

Burjeel Holdings’ Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Initiative is distinguished by its comprehensive approach, encompassing gender equality, cultural and multigenerational diversity, and support for people of determination. The organization proudly employs individuals from diverse nationalities and has implemented a robust talent acquisition strategy to ensure fairness and equity.  
 
“Our success in winning this accolade is attributed to the efforts put forth in our Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Initiative,” said Madhuri Aswal, Group Director, Human Resources, Burjeel Holdings. “This achievement is underscored by our remarkable progress in gender equality, with over 750 women leaders and a 54% representation of women in our workforce.” 

The commitment to inclusivity is also deeply ingrained in Burjeel Holdings’ ESG strategy, enriching the organizational culture and driving sustainable growth. 

“We are delighted by this recognition, which affirms our commitment to fostering an inclusive environment that celebrates the unique contributions of all. Our initiatives empower talents, ensuring everyone is supported to thrive,” said Tahani Alqadiri, Director – Emiratization and Academics, Burjeel Holdings. 

The Employee Happiness Award shines a spotlight on ongoing transformations across the UAE’s HR landscape. Renowned for its transparency and merit-based selection process, it has earned the Awards Trust Mark by the Independent Awards Standard Council. Winners are determined by a jury of top HR and employee happiness experts through a rigorous review process. 

The cooperation also aims to empower and integrate people of determination into the job market.

Abu Dhabi, 29 May, 2024: Zayed Higher Organization (ZHO) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Burjeel Holdings aimed at strategic cooperation to achieve their common goals in supporting the employment of people of determination by providing job opportunities, training and special discounts for these groups in line with Burjeel Holdings’ policies. This future cooperation aims to empower and integrate people of determination into the job market.

The Memorandum of Understanding was signed on behalf of the Zayed Higher Organization for People of Determination by His Excellency Abdullah Al Humaidan, Secretary General of the organization, and John Sunil, CEO of Burjeel Holdings. The signing ceremony took place at the organization’s headquarters in the presence of several leaders from both sides.

His Excellency Abdullah Al Humaidan, Secretary General of Zayed Higher Organization for People of Determination, welcomed signing the Memorandum of Understanding with Burjeel Holdings, a leading super-specialty healthcare services provider in MENA. This comes as part of the organization’s diverse care and rehabilitation services for its members, reflecting their strategic goals and shared vision regarding social responsibility in achieving sustainable social development and building a healthy, sustainable community amid efforts in healthcare coverage and humanitarian care for the organization’s members from the people of determination.

The partnership between the Zayed Higher Organization and Burjeel Holdings has already yielded numerous benefits for the people of determination. Successful initiatives and projects include early disability detection services, rehabilitation treatment services, and access to medical services for treatment and prevention. The partnership has also facilitated the exchange of technical expertise and training courses, enhancing the skills of the organization’s technical staff. The broader community has also reaped the benefits, with community services benefiting people of determination in the emirate. These initiatives, in collaboration with Burjeel Medical City (BMC), have significantly improved the quality of life for the people of determination.

This includes the 3D printing project for orthopedic support by having BMC purchase some of the organization’s products from the outputs of the first specialized workshop of its kind globally in developing 3D printed products by the efforts of people of determination using the HP Jet Fusion 4200 series printer to produce medical supports for limbs via 3D printing.

For his part, John Sunil said, “We are proud of our partnership with Zayed Higher Organization, which represents an important step forward in our commitment to diversity and inclusion. At Burjeel Holdings, we believe in the power of every individual, and through this partnership, we are honored to support ZHO’s mission to empower people of determination by providing meaningful job opportunities. Together, we aim to create a more inclusive society where everyone has the opportunity to thrive and contribute their unique talents.”

Abu Dhabi: In a groundbreaking achievement, a team of transplant nephrologists at Burjeel Medical City in Abu Dhabi has successfully completed a complex ABO incompatible kidney transplant. This procedure, wherein the blood types of the donor and recipient do not align, challenges conventional norms in organ transplantation, where compatibility is typically a prerequisite to prevent rejection.

When 32-year-old Revathi Karthikeyan learned that she had to undergo a kidney transplant to save her life, she didn’t imagine that the journey to find a donor would be a complicated one. Revathi and her husband Karthikeyan Cherandiyan’s journey serves as a reminder that love, when tested by life’s most formidable challenges, can emerge as the true healer. Karthikeyan played a crucial role in his wife’s journey to healing by donating his kidney to save her life. 

Unexpected Diagnosis

Revathi has been dealing with IGA nephropathy renal disease since 2018, which eventually advanced to end-stage renal disease in 2023. Faced with a critical juncture that necessitated a kidney transplant, she encountered an additional challenge when she experienced a cardiac arrest. Fortunately, she was promptly revived, and hemodialysis was initiated in 2022.

The couple explored the option of a deceased donor transplant. Hope dimmed when no suitable donor was found. “Unfortunately, no suitable donor was found in our native place. Following a family discussion, my father volunteered for kidney donation. The transplant center initiated the pre-transplant workup. Regrettably, my father was disqualified due to minor cardiac issues and a high level of HbA1c,” said Revathi.

Undeterred, Revathi’s husband stepped forward for donation. However, preliminary tests revealed a difference in blood group between Karthikeyan and Revathi.

The Turning Point

The turning point came when the family’s nephrologist approached Dr. Ishthiaque Ahamed, Specialist Nephrologist & Transplant Physician at Burjeel Medical City. Karthikeyan was identified as a cross blood group donor. He successfully passed all blood tests, imaging, and multidisciplinary fitness assessments and cross-match evaluations confirmed that he was a suitable match for his wife. 

“I was very happy when we came to know that I was able to donate the kidney. Despite approaching various transplant centers for an across-blood-group kidney transplant, we were unable to find a suitable match,” said Karthikeyan.

The decision to proceed with the pre-transplant workup at Burjeel Medical City was made after extensive discussions with Dr. Ishthiaque. The doctor emphasized the complexity of the case, highlighting the evolution of strategies over the past 25 years that have made ABO incompatible transplants safe, with graft survival rates comparable to compatible transplants.

“When I learned about the possibility of a kidney transplant, I was both anxious and hopeful. It was a rollercoaster of emotions,” said Revathi. 

In an ABO incompatible kidney transplant, the patient undergoes medical treatment before and after the kidney transplant to decrease antibody levels in the blood, thereby mitigating the risk of antibodies rejecting the donor kidney.

“In Revathi’s case, the titers are on the lower side, favoring a positive outcome. Additionally, plasmapheresis was performed to eliminate pre-existing antibodies, and the formation of new antibodies was suppressed through special injections before the transplant. Given the urgency, we decided to go ahead with the incompatible kidney transplant after explaining the pros and cons to the family. Since the patient was also very keen to go ahead with the transplant, we went ahead,” Dr Ishthiaque said.

Robotic Surgery

Dr. Rehan Saif, Director Transplant Surgery for Burjeel Abdominal Multi-Organ Transplant Program, Clinical Lead HPB Surgery, Consultant General Surgery, explained that in the context of ABO incompatible transplants, assessing antibody titers is crucial. “Higher antibody titers pose an increased risk of rejection. The live donor nephrectomy was performed using a fully robotic procedure, offering substantial advantages over both the traditional open and laparoscopic methods. This approach ensures a faster operation, minimal blood loss, and a quicker recovery period. Both the donor surgery and recipient surgery went on for four hours.” 

Along with Dr. Ishthiaque and Dr. Rehan, the multidisciplinary team included Dr. Venkat Sainaresh Vellanki, Director – Transplant Nephrologist, Dr. Ramamurthy Ganesan Baskaran, Consultant Anesthesiology & Transplant Anesthesia, and the ICU team lead by Dr. Nicholas Wyon, Consultant Anesthesia / Critical Care Medicine, with the support of the nursing team, OT team, transplant manager, and transplant coordinator.

“In an ABO incompatible renal transplant, immunosuppression during the intraoperative period was meticulously tailored to address the specific circumstances. Complicating matters, Revathi faced challenges related to difficult central venous access, posing a considerable challenge during the surgery. Efforts were made to optimize her blood pressure to ensure the transplanted kidney began functioning effectively before she exited the operating room,” said Dr. Ramamurthy.

Both Revathi and Karthikeyan have undergone post-surgery rehabilitation and were under close monitoring by the dedicated medical team at Burjeel Medical City. 

“This groundbreaking procedure not only signifies a remarkable achievement in the realm of medicine but also brings renewed hope to a family navigating the challenges of chronic kidney disease,” said Dr. Ishthiaque.

The delighted family expressed heartfelt gratitude to the dedicated team at Burjeel Medical City for their exceptional care. “I have navigated through one of the most challenging periods of our lives. I cannot thank my husband enough for his relentless support and love. I am also deeply grateful to my children and family for providing me with courage and standing firmly by my side,” said Revathi.

According to the doctors, the patient will undergo regular follow-ups, initially scheduled twice a week, and this frequency will be adjusted to monthly visits after six months. Ongoing monitoring includes dietary adjustments, lifestyle modifications, and routine lab tests.

Strap: H for Hope, the region’s first-ever healthcare series based on real-life patient stories, has been produced by Burjeel Medical City.  

Abu Dhabi [14.05.2024]: Emotions ran high at Cinemacity, Al Qana, as Burjeel Medical City (“BMC”) premiered the region’s first-ever healthcare series. Aptly titled H for Hope, the first season features five inspiring and stirring short films. The films are based on patient cases from BMC and include the real doctors who played key roles in these life-transforming stories. 

Held as part of Abu Dhabi Global Healthcare Week, the screening showcased the robust healthcare capabilities of Abu Dhabi. It was attended by government officials, dignitaries, healthcare experts, and patients, underscoring the community-wide support for and recognition of the region’s medical achievements. The red carpet was a sight to behold as real patients who had overcome adversity walked alongside the medical professionals who had guided them on their journey.  

‘A Deeply Moving Experience’ 

One of the standout short films of the evening featured the heart-wrenching yet inspiring journey of a couple whose unborn child was diagnosed with spina bifida. Their story took a hopeful turn after a successful in-utero surgery at BMC, guided by the skilled hands of Dr. Mandeep Singh. Several months later, the couple welcomed their healthy baby into the world, a testament to the remarkable medical intervention that took place at the hospital. News of this groundbreaking surgery had gone viral last year. 

Another compelling film follows the journey of a young football enthusiast whose life was disrupted by severe pain. He was diagnosed with sickle cell disease at BMC, where under the expert guidance of Dr. Zainul Aabideen, the boy underwent a life-saving bone marrow transplant. His triumphant return to the football field left the audience moved and inspired. 

Abu Dhabi’s Capabilities in Focus 

H for Hope, a first-of-its-kind healthcare series in the region, blends the personal experiences of patients and their families with the professional skill and care provided by BMC’s world-class clinicians. The series aims to inspire audiences and strengthen Abu Dhabi’s reputation as a center for complex care and medical innovation. 

Mr. John Sunil, CEO of Burjeel Holdings, expressed his pride in the series. “Our goal was to use a universal language to showcase Abu Dhabi’s capabilities and share our stories of medical success with a broader audience. These films present narratives of hope and resilience that resonate worldwide, while emphasizing Burjeel’s theme of ‘Safeguarding Your Health at the World’s Safest City’.” 

In its inaugural edition, H for Hope is much more than a showcase of BMC’s medical prowess. These short films are reminders of the profound impact medical professionals can have on their patients’ lives, offering a vision of hope and healing for the future. 

The video series is available on Burjeel Medical City’s YouTube channel.  

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‘Our wise leadership is strengthening preventive health care and cooperation with all countries in this field,’ said the Minister while opening the MENA Congress for Rare Diseases.

Abu Dhabi, Thursday 16 May 2024: In the presence and under the patronage of H.E. Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, Cabinet Member and Minister of Tolerance and Coexistence, the MENA Congress for Rare Diseaseshas commenced in Abu Dhabi. The four-day event brings together 141 speakers, including 51 international experts, from 27 countries. The MENA Congress for Rare Diseases is held in partnership with Burjeel Medical City (BMC), which is the flagship facility of Burjeel Holdings. The largest event in the field, the congress comprises 41 sessions covering a wide range of topics including recent research, advancements in diagnostics and therapeutics, regional experiences, and challenges related to rare diseases.

Sheikh Nahyan, in his inaugural address, emphasized the UAE’s strong commitment to public health and advancing medical knowledge. “Under the leadership of His Highness the President, Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, we, in the UAE, are committed to preventing disease, as well as treating it and caring for patients with empathy and compassion. Our approach is comprehensive: we want to promote preventive care against the conditions that cause disease. At the same time, we are always searching for effective ways to diagnose, treat and manage disease, whether common or rare.” 

Sheikh Nahyan focused on the need for partnerships across sectors and regional and international cooperation to combat rare diseases. Speaking to the delegates, he said, “I also share in your conviction that we need an effective regional strategy where combating rare diseases is a national and regional health priority. Such a strategy must be focused and comprehensive: superior medical personnel and first-rate health facilities are essential components. We must also increase public knowledge about these diseases and make people aware of the common risk factors. We must assist patients in learning how to live with a rare disease. Physicians are on the front line of the fight against rare diseases and must embrace patient education as a key part of their role.”

“I am delighted that BMC, with the guidance of Dr. Shamsheer Vayalil, is demonstrating its leadership in our country’s medical sector by hosting this congress. The launch of their project NADER here today also signals their determination to be the best in the field of treating rare diseases,” added Sheikh Nahyan. He also acknowledged the Department of Health – Abu Dhabi’s support in expanding healthcare capabilities and backing impactful initiatives. 

Professor Ayman El-Hattab, the congress chairman, and Professor Khaled Musallam, Group Chief Research Officer of Burjeel Holdings and the congress’ scientific committee head, briefed the Minister on the congress agenda.

“In the UAE and under the leadership of His Highness Sheikh Mohamed Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, we have become more aware of the optimal strategy to handle rare disorders, and collaborative research to develop new and curative therapies. BMC further strengthens this commitment through our Center for Research on Rare Blood Disorders (CR-RBD), which has made considerable contributions to improving our understanding of rare hematologic conditions and developing new treatment options through global clinical trials. These efforts, designed to improve the outcomes of patients with rare blood disorders, perfectly align with the goals of this congress,” said Dr. Shamsheer Vayalil, Founder and Chairman of Burjeel Holdings.

Engaging Participation

Rare diseases affect at least 5% of the population, and the MENA (Middle East and North African) region has a higher prevalence of rare diseases. The congress agenda was crafted to be comprehensive and inclusive of the majority of rare disorders and focuses on highlighting key unmet needs and potential solutions through best clinical practices and research. More than 1,100 attendees are present at the congress, representing 38 countries, including physicians, students, researchers, representatives of laboratories, pharmaceutical companies and healthcare institutions, along with patients and their families. The congress which began on Thursday will end on Sunday. 

[ENDS]