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Dubai Healthcare City Authority (DHCA) welcomes the recent legislation set to reinforce Dubai Healthcare City’s (DHCC) role as the emirate’s enabling healthcare and wellness destination, and the free zone’s commitment to supporting Dubai’s healthcare goals, solidifying the emirate’s position as a global healthcare destination.
DHCA is committed to developing a robust governance and regulatory framework, advancing infrastructure development to further strengthen our ecosystem, with a focus on healthcare investment. This cements our position as a key contributor to the UAE’s leadership role in the transformation of global healthcare and advancing Dubai’s position at the forefront of medical excellence.
The new mandate renews our confidence, and highlights the trust in our capabilities, to attract even more regional and international competencies across the medical services spectrum.
The new legislation comes as we celebrate DHCC’s 22nd anniversary, a journey defined by strategic growth and continuous innovation.
With this legislation we embark on the next transformative phase of DHCC with enthusiasm, pride and honour. This milestone underscores our commitment to enhance community wellbeing by integrating healthcare excellence with lifestyle amenities, fostering a holistic environment where healthcare, wellness and lifestyle are seamlessly intertwined.
Our goal remains to create an ecosystem where healthcare, wellness and community thrive together. Through forward-thinking initiatives and strategic partnerships, we are laying the groundwork for a future where DHCC sets new benchmarks in quality and accessibility for patient-centric specialised care.
Together, we look forward to shaping a sustainable healthcare future for all.
The new law No. (16) of 2024 concerning Dubai Healthcare City (DHCC), issued on 4 September 2024, reinforces DHCC’s role in supporting Dubai’s objective to enhance the emirate as a global health and wellness hub. Additionally, it outlines the mandate of Dubai Healthcare City Authority (DHCA), the governing body of DHCC, to develop the free zone’s evolving ecosystem.
The law highlights several key objectives central to DHCC’s mission, including ensuring high-quality, specialised healthcare services, fostering medical innovation and education, attracting world-class talent and establishing specialised medical research centres in support of Dubai’s continuous evolution as a destination for healthcare excellence at a local, regional and global level.
It also emphasises on attracting a wider spectrum of offerings, including pharmaceutical companies, pharmacies, laboratories, radiology centres, and other medical, health, and related facilities and industries.
The new mandate involves the establishment of health centres, medical resorts, health and sports clubs, and sports therapy and physiotherapy institutions, along with hotels, inns, hotel apartments and food centres.
Under the new law, DHCA will support its ecosystem by developing its infrastructure and services, including administrative services to truly allow DHCC to become an enabler with the perfect blend of health and wellbeing as it continues to flourish as a health and wellness destination.
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In September, Dubai Healthcare City Authority (DHCA) proudly participated in Ru’ya Careers UAE 2024 to advance Emiratisation in Dubai Healthcare City (DHCC) freezone.
During Ru’ya Careers UAE 2024, a 3-day Career Fair dedicated for Emirati job seekers, the DHCC community featured diverse recruitment opportunities, encouraging attendees to be a part of its dynamic and expanding ecosystem, driving healthcare innovation in the UAE.
A key highlight was the launch of the latest edition of the DHCA Masari programme, an initiative dedicated to empowering fresh Emirati graduates through paid internships and tailored professional development.
The DHCC participation also provided visitors the opportunity to attend public awareness and professional development workshops to build motivation, manage change and lead a career of impact.
In its third year, DHCC welcomed 170 community members during the two-day DFC – DHCC tournament, reinforcing its dedication to promoting physical health and strengthening the bonds within its vibrant ecosystem.
The tournament is part of Dubai Healthcare City’s (DHCC) participation in the Dubai Fitness Challenge (DFC) 2024, an initiative by His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Chairman of the Executive Council of Dubai.
The tournament featured a lineup of activities, including football, basketball, cricket and paddle, providing opportunities for everyone to engage, connect and embrace an active lifestyle. Moreover, winners at the tournament received trophies and cash prices as token of encouragement.
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The Dubai Healthcare City (DHCC) community came together to celebrate the 53rd Eid Al Etihad with vibrant cultural activities honouring the UAE’s founding fathers, the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan and Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum, and its visionary leadership.
Highlighting the UAE’s remarkable growth and progress, the celebration featured dynamic presentations, including a nostalgic display of classic cars models once used by Sheikh Zayed and Sheikh Rashid, and a captivating LED screen demonstrating the journey of the UAE healthcare and timeline of key developments, offering a unique glimpse into the nation’s history.
The event seamlessly blended heritage and modernity, celebrating the UAE’s cultural richness and achievements. Guests enjoyed traditional Emirati cuisine and captivating activities, including falconry, live calligraphy stations, traditional dances, photo booths, robo-selfie experiences and other cultural exhibitions that beautifully showcased the essence of Emirati identity.
The festivities embodied the spirit of unity and pride, bringing the DHCC community together in tribute to the UAE’s extraordinary journey.
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Dubai Healthcare City (DHCC) organises impactful campaigns each year to raise awareness about critical health conditions. These initiatives educate the public on prevention, early detection and proactive health management, fostering a culture of collective wellbeing within the community.
Similarly, this year, in partnership with key health authorities across the UAE, Dubai Healthcare City Authority (DHCA) actively supported the Hayat Organ Donation Programme. This national initiative promoted organ donation and transplantation, aligning with the UAE’s vision of becoming a global leader in this field.
During the Cancer Awareness Season, DHCA launched the ‘Life Beyond Diagnosis: Cancer is One Chapter of the Story’ campaign in October and November, highlighting the journey of cancer survivors’ post-recovery, addressing the physical, emotional and social effects of the disease.
Dubai Healthcare City (DHCC) freezone continue to strengthen its ecosystem enhancing its specialised services and ensure comprehensive care, through key inaugurations and expansions.
Dubai Healthcare City (DHCC) celebrated World Mental Health Day with the reopening of the Aspris Wellbeing Clinic, a state-of-the-art facility offering various mental health services. Located at Al Razi Medical Complex (DHCC Building 64), the clinic is committed to promoting mental health and holistic care within the community.
The revamped clinic encompasses eight treatment rooms and provides comprehensive therapies for conditions such as anxiety, depression, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and trauma. With a focus on personalised care, the clinic is staffed by highly qualified professionals dedicated to delivering the highest standards of care and supporting individuals on their journey to improved wellbeing.
Sakura Clinic has expanded its presence within Dubai Healthcare City (DHCC), increasing its capacity by 2.5 times to provide specialised care across dermatology, cardiology and psychiatry consultations, in addition to its existing medical and dental services.
This expansion strengthens the clinic’s ability to cater to a growing patient base while maintaining its commitment to personalised, high-quality healthcare. With a multilingual team, Sakura Clinic continues to serve diverse communities, ensuring access to specialised care.
Dubai Healthcare City (DHCC) witnessed the launch of SpeechSync, an innovative communication app, at the AccessAbilities Expo 2024. Developed locally at the heart of DHCC by a team of dedicated speech therapists from The Speech Clinic, a DHCC business partner this Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) app is designed to empower children with autism and enhance their ability to communicate effectively.
The app aims to support non-verbal children, children with autism, those with developmental delays and other communication difficulties in efforts to enable them to establish communications with others. It provides different ways to communicate with varieties of innovative features including AI.
The app reflects DHCC’s commitment to fostering innovation within its ecosystem and supporting the growth and wellbeing of all communities in the region.
Dubai Healthcare City (DHCC) has commemorated the Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland’s (RCSI) 20th anniversary in the UAE at an event held at RCSI offices in Mohammed Bin Rashid Academic Medical Centre.
The ceremony honoured two decades of RSCI’s contributions to medical education, research and healthcare advancements. Highlights included the unveiling of RCSI’s strategic partners wall and the presentation of a commemorative plaque by Issam Galadari, Chief Executive Officer, Dubai Healthcare City Authority (DHCA).
Distinguished guests, including Ambassador Alison Milton, the Irish Ambassador to the UAE, Prof. Cathal Kelly, Vice Chancellor & CEO/ Registrar at RCSI, Mr. Justin Ralph, Group Chief Information Officer at RCSI, attended the celebration, which reinforced RCSI’s longstanding role within DHCC’s vibrant healthcare community and the GCC region as a whole
Emirates Hospitals Group LLC (EHG) has announced the successful completion of its comprehensive restructuring plan recently approved by the Abu Dhabi Court of First Instance. This achievement represents a transformative milestone for EHG including Emirates Specialty Hospital, in Dubai Healthcare City, laying a solid financial foundation and paving the way for sustainable growth in the years ahead.
The restructuring plan features a significant reduction of debt, a new robust governance structure with a board comprising of internationally and locally renowned healthcare professionals, and provisions for additional financing.
“The completion of this restructuring marks a pivotal moment for Emirates Hospital Group. By addressing our financial obligations and embedding a robust governance framework, we are well-positioned to continue delivering exceptional healthcare services and achieve sustainable growth,” said Christian Schuhmacher, Executive Chairman of the restructured EHG Group.
DNA GTx, a cutting-edge bioinformatics-based biotech company in Dubai Healthcare City (DHCC), is reshaping the future of cancer research, diagnostics, and personalised treatment through advanced multi-omics and bioinformatics technologies. By pioneering these innovations, DNA GTx aims to establish the UAE as a global leader in the evolving field of precision medicine.
At the heart of DNA GTx’s mission is the use of state-of-the-art genomic sequencing technologies to provide comprehensive, precise, and personalised cancer diagnostics and treatment plans. The company offers a broad portfolio of oncology assays designed to address a wide range of clinical needs—ranging from risk assessment, screening, and diagnosis, to staging, prognosis, therapy selection, and ongoing treatment monitoring. These assays are instrumental in the era of personalised medicine, enabling healthcare providers to tailor interventions based on the unique genetic profile of each patient’s cancer.
Beyond the UAE, DNA GTx extends its impact internationally, with operations in Brazil, Colombia, Costa Rica, and the United States. Through strategic partnerships with global scientific communities, DNA GTx enhances its reach and visibility, ensuring its services remain at the cutting edge of oncology and precision medicine. The company’s commitment to innovation and excellence guarantees that its offerings stay aligned with the latest breakthroughs in multi-omics and bioinformatics.
"The field of cancer genomics is advancing at an unprecedented pace, and DNA GTx is proud to be at the forefront of this transformation in the UAE, within DHCC’s dynamic ecosystem of world-class healthcare services, we combine groundbreaking technological solutions with an unwavering commitment to quality, innovation, and collaboration. Our vision is to lead the global fight against cancer, from the UAE to the world," said a spokesperson from DNA GTx.
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Dubai Healthcare City (DHCC) community members discussed collaborative efforts on insurance relationships and management during a workshop organised by Dubai Healthcare City Authority (DHCA) in partnership with Presyco Healthcare Management.
The community workshop is part of a wider partnership between DHCA and Presyco Healthcare Management aimed at enhancing operational efficiency for DHCC partners, in line with DHCA’s strategy to foster an environment that promotes growth and strengthens its healthcare ecosystem.
Dubai Healthcare City (DHCC), in partnership with Johnson & Johnson (J&J), recently celebrated World Sight Day by hosting an event dedicated to vision and eye health. As part of the event, J&J offered 200 complimentary eye check-ups to DHCC community members and the wider public, raising awareness about the importance of regular eye examinations and promoting essential eye care practices.
This collaboration reflects DHCC’s commitment to enhancing health and wellness, ensuring access to preventive healthcare and supporting overall wellbeing.
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Julia Fernandez, the founder of the Fruitful Community Initiative, once again showcased her unwavering dedication to social responsibility by spearheading a Dubai Healthcare City community event, which honoured more than 1,000 workers.
Rooted in the humanitarian values advocated by the UAE’s founding fathers, the late Sheikh Zayed and Sheikh Rashid, the community event was an integral part of the 53rd Eid Al Etihad DHCC community celebrations in collaboration with DHCA.
The event engaged students, parents and staff from the Swiss International Scientific School in Dubai (SISD), alongside with DHCA team members, who distributed warm meals to more than 1000 workers and fruits, in addition to decorating gift bags with heartfelt messages of appreciation to the construction workers for their role in building the DHCC community. This thoughtful gesture not only recognised their hard work but also embodied the spirit of unity and compassion within the community.
The Fruitful Community initiative, inspired by Fernandez’s daily commute with her children past a nearby construction site, exemplifies the profound impact of small acts of kindness and celebrates the UAE’s enduring spirit of generosity and solidarity.
Founder and Medical Director of Proto Clinic
As the Founder and Medical Director of Proto Clinic, Dr. Wissam Adada’s achievements are driven by his vision to revolutionise regenerative medicine and well-being. Successfully establishing Proto Clinic in 2016 in Dubai Healthcare City (DHCC), Dr. Adada’s responsibilities center around leading innovation in regenerative medicine and longevity, overseeing the development and implementation of cutting-edge treatments. In addition, he also guides the clinic’s growth and works closely with different entities to shape the future of medicine on both national and international levels.
Dr. Adada played a vital role in establishing the clinic’s Research and Development (R&D) department, led by Dr Shaikha al Mazrouei President of UAE stem cell Association, a pivotal milestone to integrating cutting-edge research into clinical practice. This development empowered the clinic to contribute significantly towards advancing regenerative medicine and longevity.
“Working within Dubai Healthcare City provides an unparalleled environment for collaboration, innovation, and excellence. DHCC’s community of like-minded professionals coupled with access to state-of-the-art resources enables us to enhance our contributions to the healthcare sector continuously. It is fulfilling to be part of a destination and community that fosters global connections and shapes the future of medicine,” said Dr. Adada.
In addition to his role at Proto Clinic, Dr. Adada is actively involved in various healthcare forums and associations. He serves as the President of the Global Regenerative Medicine Academy MENA and Director of Clinical Training & Education UAE Stem Cell Association, where he plays an active role in fostering advancements in the field through international collaborations, research, and clinical innovations.
Dr. Adada’s educational background includes an advanced degree in medicine with a specialisation in aesthetic, regenerative, and stem cell therapy, supported by extensive research contributions and comprehensive clinical expertise.
A picture that transcends words and time, , the Cadillac Fleetwood 1964, the official car of the late Sheikh Zayed and the Rolls-Royce Silver Shadow one of the late Sheikh Rashid’s cars displayed at Dubai Healthcare City community during the 53rd Eid Al Etihad celebration as a tribute to the revolutionary transformation of the country, made possible through the wisdom, vision, and unwavering guidance of the late Sheikh Zayed and Sheikh Rashid.
18 | DHCA LIFESTYLE
Dubai Healthcare City (DHCC) has welcomed Ibric Coffee Shop, a home-grown speciality coffee concept, with its third and largest outlet in Dubai.
With the aim to bring people together, from coffee enthusiast to food lovers, the shop creates the perfect blend offering wide range of speciality coffee and various food selection of sandwiches, salads and pastries.
The new coffee shop provides different seating styles, from a big tree in the centre of the shop surrounded with a high round table for nature lovers who are looking for a serene atmosphere, to stepped seating style making it popular amongst the students who are looking to spend some casual time with their peers.
"A year ago, we founded Ibric with a clear mission to democratize specialty coffee and shift the focus from overpriced international chains to locally grown shops. Our vision is to create spaces focusing on what truly matters; an exceptional coffee with an inviting ambience. We are excited to have chosen a thriving community such as Dubai Healthcare City for our third branch. Its vibrant ecosystem provides an ideal environment for us to elevate our business while continuing to serve this community of coffee enthusiasts," said Alex Drozan, Co-founder at Ibric Coffee Shop.
20 | OUR SUCCESSFUL COMMUNITY
CellSave Arabia, the region’s first private stem cell facility, has been at the forefront of medical innovation since its inception in 2005. With a strong commitment to advancing regenerative medicine, the company has established itself as a leading provider of cutting-edge stem cell solutions. By leveraging the potential of umbilical cord and placental stem cells, CellSave Arabia aims to enhance patients' overall wellbeing and quality of life.
In 2024, CellSave Arabia achieved AABB accreditation for somatic stem cells, underscoring its dedication to quality and safety. The company’s CryoInfinite technology ensures an unlimited supply of mesenchym al stem cells for both research and therapeutic applications.
CellSave Arabia's success stories are a testament to the transformative power of stem cell therapy. One such inspiring case involved a six-month-old baby diagnosed with medulloblastoma, a rare and aggressive form of brain cancer. By using the infant's own cord blood stem cells, doctors successfully treated the cancer, offering hope to families facing similar challenges.
Another inspiring success story comes from Abu Dhabi, where a seven-year-old Emirati boy suffering from Beta Thalassemia received a life-saving cord blood transplant. The successful procedure, performed at John Hopkins University School of Medicine, marked a significant milestone in his journey to recovery.
Most recently, a baby diagnosed with Protein C deficiency and a brain injury benefited from a stem cell transplant using their own stored stem cells. This outcome highlights the importance of proactive health management and personalised treatment approaches.
CellSave Arabia's unwavering commitment to innovation, coupled with its proven track record of successful treatments, positions the company as a beacon of hope in regenerative medicine. Offering a wide range of services, including stem cell banking, exosome therapy and cell culturing, CellSave Arabia continues to empower individuals and families to take control of their health and wellbeing.
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