Abu Dhabi to welcome top-tier physicians from US, South Korea, Australia this July
SAMIHAH ZAMAN (ABU DHABI)Abu Dhabi will once again welcome several leading physicians in a bid to offer expert healthcare and medical services within the emirate.Coming to Abu Dhabi as part of the Department of Health- Abu Dhabi (DoH) Visiting Physicians Programme , the doctors will provide medical care and advice in plastic surgery, paediatric oncology, ophthalmology, and spine care.'The DoH welcomes top-tier doctors from around the world to the Emirate during July, offering exceptional healthcare services through the Visiting Physicians Programme,' the DoH announced on its social media platforms.Dr. Michael Grimley, paediatric haematologist-oncologist at Cincinnati Children's Hospital, US, is one of the quartet of doctors heading to the UAE capital this month. Dr. Grimley specialises in the care of anaemia, sickle cell disease, haemophilia, leukaemia, and lymphoma. He will see patients at the Sheikh Khalifa Medical City between July 7-11, 2025.Paul Geelen, ocularist at the Artificial Eye Services Hospital in Perth, Australia, will see patients at Moorfields Eye Hospital between July 13 -17, 2025. Geelen has more than two decades of experience in the making and fitting of hand crafted artificial eyes.Dr. Zeeshan Sardar, associate chief of spine and scoliosis surgery at the New York Presbyterian Hospital, US, will meanwhile be available at Healthpoint Hospital between July 28 and August 1, 2025. Dr. Sardar is an expert in the treatment of adult scoliosis, ankylosing spondylitis, complex spine surgery, and degenerative spine diseases.Dr. Joon Pio Hong, consultant plastic surgeon at Asan Medical Center, South Korea, has also offered medical care for lymphoedema, lipoedema, and diabetic foot at Abu Dhabi's Tarmeem Hospital and Healthpoint Hospital this July.The DoH has urged patients and their families to book appointments with the experts by contacting the respective health care facilities.Launched in 2021 with the aim of providing top-notch healthcare within Abu Dhabi, the Visiting Physicians Programme has enabled more than 300 surgeries, and seen the contribution of more than 30 visiting experts from around the world.
As of December 2024, more than 3,200 patients had received treatment and consultation in Abu Dhabi as part of the initiative.
Source: Aletihad - Abu Dhabi
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Zawya
4 hours ago
- Zawya
More Than Skin Deep: A new partnership to ease the hidden burden of Eczema in the UAE
Abu Dhabi, Eczema, often dismissed as 'just a skin problem,' affects far more than the skin. For thousands of children in the UAE - and the families who care for them - it's a relentless battle of itching, poor sleep, emotional distress, and social isolation. Parents stay up through the night tending to their children's wounds, while children miss school, avoid friendships, and battle anxiety at a young age. This invisible epidemic is robbing too many families of comfort, confidence, and peace of mind. In response to this growing healthcare challenge, Jamjoom Pharma and the Emirates Dermatology Society (EDS) have signed today a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to launch ' ECZPLORE' —a pioneering awareness campaign aimed at changing the way eczema is understood, managed, and supported in the UAE. 'Eczema is not just a rash—it's a chronic disease that affects the entire family,' said Dr. Ayman Al Naeem, President of the Emirates Dermatology Society. 'We believe that early education and empathetic support can change the daily reality for children living with eczema. Recent studies suggest that 1 in 5 children in the UAE suffer from eczema, with over half of moderate-to-severe cases remaining uncontrolled. The condition not only disrupts sleep and school life, but also doubles the likelihood of anxiety and depression in caregivers, highlighting the urgent need for broader public awareness.' The ECZPLORE program will roll out nationwide through schools, clinics, and digital channels. It includes child-friendly materials like coloring books and storybooks, adult-focused guides and magazines, and tailored support for healthcare professionals —all designed to help families better understand the condition and how to lead an 'eczema-friendly' life. 'At Jamjoom Pharma, our purpose is to serve patient well-being through knowledge, care, and community support,' said Dr. Samer Lezzaiq, General Manager - Gulf, Levant & Export Markets at Jamjoom Pharma. 'Through ECZPLORE, we aim to break the silence around eczema, equip caregivers with real tools, and give children the confidence to live without shame.' The partnership also extends into fungal infection awareness, targeting both patients and professionals with actionable educational campaigns. Together, Jamjoom Pharma and EDS hope to drive a cultural shift in how chronic skin conditions are perceived and managed, transforming frustration into understanding—and silence into support. About Jamjoom Pharmaceuticals: Jamjoom Pharma is a leading pharmaceutical organization committed to enhancing the quality of life through the development, manufacturing, and distribution of high-quality medicines and consumer healthcare products. Headquartered in Saudi Arabia, the company was established back in 2000 and is tirelessly operating to support the Saudi Vision 2030 to reinforce the public healthcare system. With a strong focus on research, innovation, and patient-centered care, Jamjoom Pharma serves diverse markets across Middle East & Africa, with a bold ambition to expand globally, providing effective solutions in key therapeutic areas (including ophthalmology, dermatology, cardiometabolic, gastrointestinal, and general medicine). Through its state-of-the-art facilities across the MEA region and dedication to regulatory excellence, Jamjoom Pharma continues to deliver products that meet the highest standards of safety, efficacy, and quality, improving health outcomes for millions of people. Jamjoom Pharma Media Contact: Vivian Fikry, Corporate Communications Director M: +201222701256 E:
Zawya
8 hours ago
- Zawya
Sheikh Shakhbout Medical City and AstraZeneca launch an asthma inhaler recycling initiative
Abu Dhabi, UAE: Sheikh Shakhbout Medical City (SSMC), a flagship hospital in the UAE for serious and complex care and a subsidiary of the PureHealth group, has today announced its collaboration with global biopharmaceutical company AstraZeneca, to launch the 'Pure Air Solution' (PAS) initiative. This partnership, formalised through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), focuses on the recycling of asthma inhalers. While demonstrating a shared commitment to sustainable healthcare practices, this initiative also addresses the urgent need to reduce the healthcare sector's carbon footprint, which currently contributes to approximately 5% of the world's greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. Commenting on the launch of the initiative, Dr. Marwan Al Kaabi, chief executive officer at SSMC, said: 'By implementing a comprehensive inhaler recycling programme, SSMC and AstraZeneca are taking a significant step towards mitigating environmental harm, which aligns with the UAE's vision for net-zero carbon emissions, by 2050.' Through the strategic placement of collection bins across SSMC's key clinics and pharmacies, the initiative will encourage asthma patients to participate in inhaler recycling. The partnership will also prioritise robust educational campaigns on asthma management and the importance of recycling – empowering both patients and staff at SSMC to engage in responsible disposal practices. Dr. Al Kaabi, added: 'The PAS initiative is further testament to SSMC's leadership in proactive environmental stewardship within the healthcare sector. By launching this programme, we are taking decisive strides towards a healthier, more sustainable future, while setting a precedent and establishing a benchmark for responsible healthcare practices, within the region.' Sameh El Fangary, cluster president for GCC and Pakistan at AstraZeneca, shared: 'Partnering with SSMC reflects our shared commitment to advancing innovative and sustainable respiratory care. This collaboration aims to reduce the environmental impact associated with inhaler use, aligning with our integrated approach to health—addressing both patient outcomes and environmental considerations.' Project leads Dr. Haytham Shahata, research clinical pharmacist, and Dr. Lubna Issa, drug store operations manager at SSMC, said: 'Inhalers, among the most prevalent medical devices used in the UAE, account for nearly 80% of inhaler-related GHG output.1 This is largely attributable to hydrofluorocarbon propellants, which are up to 2,500 times more potent than carbon dioxide and can remain in the atmosphere for over 200 years.2,3 With 96% of an inhaler's climate impact stemming from these potent emissions, the PAS initiative is designed to significantly minimise the carbon footprint of respiratory care.4' The PAS initiative reinforces the power of collaborative innovation in building a sustainable healthcare ecosystem. By fostering a culture of recycling and education, SSMC and AstraZeneca are taking the lead in advancing sustainable healthcare practices across the UAE, ultimately benefiting patients and the broader community by ensuring long-term health and environmental well-being. For media inquiries, please contact: Fadya Al Kathairi Sheikh Shakhbout Medical City Email: falkathairi@ Afaf El-Sharkawy 9Yards Communications Email: References Alzaabi A, Bell JP, Montero-Arias F, et al. Greenhouse Gas Emissions from Respiratory Treatments: Results from the SABA CARBON International Study. Adv Ther. 2023;40(11):4836-4856. doi:10.1007/s12325-023-02663-2. Jeswani HK, Azapagic A. Life cycle environmental impacts of inhalers. J Clean Prod. 2019;237:117733. doi:10.1016/ Borgford-Parnell N, Beaugrand M, Andersen SO, Zaelke D. Phasing Down the Use of Hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs). Contrib Pap Seiz Glob Oppor Partnersh Better Growth Better Clim. New Clim Econ. 2015. PSNC Briefing 024.21. Reducing the climate change impact of inhalers: environmentally safe disposal. August 2021. About Sheikh Shakhbout Medical City (SSMC) Sheikh Shakhbout Medical City is one of the largest tertiary hospitals in the UAE offering the highest standards of medical expertise for the treatment of serious and complex conditions. Established in 2019, SSMC has 660 patient beds, 18 operating theatres, including a hybrid operating room and a 26-bed neonatal intensive care unit. Supported by the latest diagnostic and treatment modalities available, SSMC offers care in 46 specialties, bringing advanced and trusted quality care closer to the UAE and the wider region. For more information on Sheikh Shakhbout Medical City or to book an appointment, please visit: About PureHealth PureHealth is the largest healthcare group in the Middle East with an ecosystem that challenges lifespans and reimagines health spans. With 100+ hospitals, 300+ clinics, multiple diagnostic centres, health insurance solutions, pharmacies, health tech, procurement, investments and more, its groundbreaking innovations are at the forefront of healthcare as the company is on a mission to unlock time for humankind. By advancing the Science of Longevity, PureHealth is introducing the healthcare of the future from the United Arab Emirates to the rest of the world. PureHealth's network comprises: SEHA – One of the largest healthcare networks of hospitals and clinics in the UAE SEHA CLINICS - Delivering comprehensive community-based healthcare services Daman (The National Health Insurance Company) – The UAE's leading health insurer The Medical Office – Overseeing Sheikh Khalifa Hospitals and healthcare facilities established under the initiatives of H.H. The President of the UAE Rafed – The UAE's largest healthcare Group Purchasing Organisation PureLab – Managing and operating the largest network of laboratories in the region One Health – A network that provides end-to-end medical solutions to a base of over 300 healthcare service providers The Life Corner – Abu Dhabi's first holistic pharmacy, serving the health and wellness establishment Ardent Health Services – The fourth largest privately held acute care hospital operator in the US Circle Health Group – The largest independent operators of hospitals in the UK Hellenic Healthcare Group (HHG) - the largest private healthcare provider in Greece and Cyprus PureCS - A leading cloud and technology services provider, specialising in IT management and consulting solutions, cybersecurity, cloud services and AI information systems Sheikh Shakhbout Medical City (SSMC) – The UAE's largest healthcare complex, delivering integrated complex care To learn more, please visit
Zawya
8 hours ago
- Zawya
BioSapien extends Pre-series A funding round to over $8mln - with new investment from Globivest
New world-class talent for BioSapien also revealed: technological, operational, and medical excellence to shape future of precision medicine Abu Dhabi, U.A.E – BioSapien (the 'Company'), the pioneering biotech company behind MediChip™, a revolutionary localized cancer treatment platform - announces a new extension to its pre-Series A funding round and the appointment of new talent across the business - including Joseph Borrello PhD as Chief Technology Officer, Sonia Ramamoorthy MD MBA FACS as Head of Medical Affairs, Agnes Westelinck PharmD as Head of Regulatory U.S., Dirk Richter MD FACS as Head of Regulatory U.A.E., David Briere PhD as Director of Pharmacology, and Jerry Webb BSc as Head of Quality. BioSapien is delighted to welcome Globivest as an investor in the pre-Series A funding round. Globivest is the first women-led, gender lens venture capital fund from the MENA region - and has expertise in Life Sciences. BioSapien's pre-Series A funding total is now over $8 million, with investors including Global Ventures - a leading VC firm in MENA; plus Golden Gate Ventures and Dara Holdings. Globivest's stated mission is to break the myth that opposes capital returns to impact-driven models. Championing the WHO's 'One Health' approach, it specializes in innovative and scalable early-stage startups that drive health, social, and environmental change - making BioSapien an ideal fit for its portfolio. BioSapien also announces the acquisition of world-class talent across all tiers of the Company – with 12 new appointments. In addition to the appointments listed above, other new talent includes Zhiyu Xia PhD as Senior Manufacturing Engineer, Gaurav Vij MBA as Business Officer, Nancy Sperling MS MS as the QC Lead, Nivedita Sivakumar PharmD MS as Documentation and Compliance Manager, Manny Valenza BA as Clinical Development Associate and Jared Rice BA as the Research and Operations Lead. Dr. Khatija Ali, CEO of BioSapien, said: 'Two of the greatest challenges for young, fast-growing companies are establishing a strong balance sheet and attracting high-quality talent. Therefore, I am delighted to announce an extension of BioSapien's pre-Series A funding round. As a female-led healthcare fund in the MENA region - and backed by EU pharma - we are proud to have Globivest as an investor and strategic partner. 'Similarly, it gives me great pleasure to welcome new, world-class colleagues across all tiers of the Company. A business is only as good as its people - so it is thrilling to be joined by such high-quality, diverse talent. Together, we will shape a future where precision medicine is both globally impactful and locally accessible.' Dr. Laura-Joy Boulos, Partner at Globivest, commented: 'At Globivest, we back companies that don't just promise innovation - they deliver transformative, science-backed solutions with the power to shift paradigms. BioSapien's MediChip™ platform is a breakthrough in localized cancer treatment - scalable, precise, and deeply aligned with our One Health mission. We're proud to support Dr. Khatija Ali and her team as they build the future of accessible precision medicine.' Further information Thoburns Johanna Lawson-Dick BioSapien@ About BioSapien BioSapien is a clinical-stage biotechnology company pioneering the future of localized drug delivery through its proprietary biodegradable 3D-printed delivery platform. Headquartered between the United States and the UAE, BioSapien's flagship technology, MediChip™, enables sustained, targeted release of chemotherapeutics directly at the tumor site—minimizing systemic toxicity and revolutionizing cancer care. The company is backed by global experts in oncology, materials science, and regulatory strategy, and is preparing for its first-in-human clinical trials. As part of the UAE's growing biotech ecosystem, BioSapien is aligned with the nation's vision to advance precision medicine, health innovation, and localized manufacturing capabilities. With a clear regulatory pathway, strong IP portfolio, and transformational applications beyond oncology - including infectious disease and post-operative care - BioSapien is positioned to become a cornerstone of the UAE's sovereign biotech ambitions. For more information, visit About Globivest Globivest is the first women-led, gender-lens impact investment fund from the MENA region, championing the WHO's One Health approach. The fund blends financial returns with meaningful, science-backed impact, investing in tech-driven, early-stage startups at the intersection of health, social, and environmental innovation. With a footprint across EMEA and the Americas, Globivest supports cross-border scale and market expansion. A key differentiator lies in Globivest's partnership with Sci-dip, a digital health platform founded by Globivest partner Dr. Laura-Joy Boulos, connecting the fund to a network of over 10,000 PhD experts. This collaboration enhances scientific due diligence and positions Globivest as a trusted co-investor for top-tier VC firms — particularly in life sciences, where depth of domain expertise is essential. Managing partner Jasmine Busson is a Kauffman Fellow, joining a global network of elite investors responsible for over $8.5T in exits. With Fund II now officially closed and a growing portfolio of nine companies, Globivest is emerging as a leading force in science-driven impact investing in the region.
