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)

Equipped with state-of-the-art technology and led by a team of board-certified specialists, the center provides targeted care for chronic spine and joint pain, cancer-related pain, as well as nerve and musculoskeletal disorders 

Dubai, July 14, 2025: To support patients in managing pain through safe and effective treatments, Burjeel Hospital for Advanced Surgery, Dubai, has launched the Burjeel Center for Interventional Pain Management, the first dedicated center of its kind in Dubai and the Northern Emirates. Equipped with state-of-the-art technology and led by a team of board-certified specialists, the center was inaugurated in the presence of Mr. Safeer Ahamed, Co-CEO of Burjeel Holdings, and other senior officials.   

“The launch of this center further strengthens our clinical capabilities and reaffirms our commitment to delivering advanced, patient-centered care. Our goal is to ensure that every individual suffering from chronic pain has access to timely, specialized care that empowers them to live better,” said Mr. Safeer Ahamed.  

Redefining Pain Management  

Led by Dr. Manish Raj, Specialist in Endoscopic Spine & Interventional Pain Medicine, the Burjeel Center for Interventional Pain Management is designed to provide expert pain management services that align with global standards. The multidisciplinary team at the center employs interventional medicine to diagnose and treat pain. These image-guided, minimally invasive procedures minimize recovery time and improve patient outcomes.  

Using a patient-centered approach, the center brings together experts from Endoscopic spine surgery, minimally invasive pain interventions, interventional pain medicine, physiotherapy, and oncology to deliver integrated and personalized care. Combining world-class clinical expertise with advanced technology, it plays a crucial role in diagnosing and treating chronic spine and joint pain, cancer-related pain, as well as nerve and musculoskeletal disorders. It offers innovative procedures such as endoscopic spine surgery, SI joint fusion, indirect fusion, endoscopic-assisted fusion, spinal cord stimulator, intrathecal pump and many more advanced day care pain interventions.   

“At the center, we aim to provide transformative care that goes beyond temporary relief. Our multidisciplinary approach harnesses cutting-edge diagnostics and evidence-based therapies to empower patients to reclaim their lives, free from the limitations of chronic pain,” said Dr. Manish Raj. 

Targeted Treatments, Personalized Care 

Conditions treated at the center include chronic back and neck pain, sciatica, spinal stenosis, herniated discs, degenerative disc disease, osteoarthritis, failed back surgery syndrome, and vertebral fractures. Patients also receive care for diabetic or post-injury neuropathy, shingles (PHN), trigeminal neuralgia, Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS), migraines, and myofascial pain. Cancer and visceral pain, including tumor-related discomfort and chronic abdominal or pelvic pain, are managed through tailored treatment strategies. 

The center offers advanced pain interventions, including spinal cord and DRG stimulation for CRPS and post-surgical pain, intrathecal pump implants for targeted medication delivery in cancer and chronic cases, and regenerative therapies like PRP and prolotherapy for sports injuries or osteoarthritis. It also provides specialized nerve blocks and image-guided injections for joint, migraine, pelvic, and complex pain management. 

By focusing on early intervention, integrated therapies, and increasing access to specialized care, the center is poised to improve quality of life for patients across the region. 

The Burjeel by the Beach Clinic was inaugurated by H.E. Sheikh Zayed bin Saeed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and H.E. Sheikh Hamdan bin Saeed bin Zayed Al Nahyan  

Abu Dhabi, May 28: Burjeel Holdings, a leading provider of super-specialty healthcare services in the MENA region, has officially inaugurated the Burjeel by the Beach Clinic at Abu Dhabi’s Saadiyat Island, marking a significant step in its ongoing commitment to expanding access to premium healthcare across the UAE. Strategically located in the heart of Saadiyat Island, the center is designed to serve the diverse community of residents, expatriates, tourists, and corporate professionals. The new center was launched by H.E. Sheikh Zayed bin Saeed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and H.E. Sheikh Hamdan bin Saeed bin Zayed Al Nahyan. 

The launch event was attended by Dr. Shamsheer Vayalil, Founder and Chairman of Burjeel Holdings, Mr. Saif Alfalahi, Vice Chairman & Non-Executive Director – Independent, Burjeel Holdings, and Mr. Omran Al Khoori, Executive Director, Burjeel Holdings, along with members of Burjeel’s senior management.  

The center’s design embraces a ‘Burjeel by the Beach’ theme, creating a serene, coastal-inspired atmosphere that mirrors the tranquil surroundings of Saadiyat Island. This patient-centered approach ensures that the medical center provides expert care and a calming environment where individuals and families can prioritize their health and well-being. 

The facility offers a comprehensive range of services, including Family Medicine, Internal Medicine, Pediatrics, Obstetrics & Gynecology, and Psychiatry. In addition to its consulting doctors, the center will welcome visiting specialists from Burjeel’s broader network, ensuring continuous access to diverse medical expertise. For patients requiring more specialized interventions, the center will facilitate referrals to the Group’s flagship facility, Burjeel Medical City, for advanced care. 

The center has state-of-the-art diagnostic technologies, including X-ray and ultrasound imaging, providing patients with fast, accurate diagnostic assessments. A fully integrated in-house pharmacy further enhances the center’s ability to deliver seamless care, enabling patients to access diagnostics, consultations, and medications all in one convenient location. 

The center features six fully equipped consultation rooms, five specialized departments, and a dedicated treatment room. In addition, services such as phlebotomy for lab testing and on-site imaging ensure that patients receive a convenient and efficient care experience from start to finish. 

“The opening of Burjeel by the Beach Clinic at Saadiyat Island is a key milestone in our mission to bring world-class healthcare closer to our communities. We are proud to offer a facility that combines expert care with a welcoming environment, allowing individuals and families to focus on their health and well-being,” said Mr. John Sunil, Group CEO of Burjeel Holdings. 

The center will engage the community through wellness programs and corporate health partnerships, further nurturing preventive health practices and promoting the overall well-being of individuals, families, and businesses on the island. 

“We are dedicated to providing holistic healthcare that meets the diverse needs of our community. We focus on ensuring that every patient receives compassionate care that supports their physical and mental well-being in an environment that promotes healing and relaxation,” said Dr. Sonia Malik, Consultant, Family Medicine and Medical Director of Burjeel by the Beach Clinic, Saadiyat Island. 

The launch of Burjeel by the Beach Clinic at Saadiyat Island is part of Burjeel Holdings’ long-term healthcare expansion strategy, aimed at enhancing access to high-quality primary care while addressing the broad spectrum of healthcare needs in the community. 

Renowned orthopedic surgeon Prof. Dr. Munjed Al Muderis will offer cutting-edge osseointegration surgeries at the clinic 

Abu Dhabi | May 27, 2025: Ushering in a new era of prosthetic care in the UAE and across the region, Burjeel Medical City has launched the Al Muderis Osseointegration Clinic. The clinic is named after globally renowned orthopedic surgeon Prof. Dr. Munjed Al Muderis. As part of the Paley Middle East Clinic, the new center introduces to the region a groundbreaking surgical technique known as osseointegration, which anchors external prosthetic limbs directly to the bone, offering amputees enhanced mobility, stability, and comfort. 

The launch event was attended by Prof. Dr. Al Muderis, Dr. Dror Paley, founder of the Paley Middle East Clinic, and senior leadership from Burjeel Holdings, marking a significant milestone in making advanced amputee care more accessible to patients in the Middle East. 

At the heart of the clinic’s offering is the Osseointegrated Prosthetic Limb (OPL) system, which uses a titanium implant that integrates with the bone and extends through the skin to attach securely to an external prosthesis. This direct skeletal connection mimics natural limb movement and eliminates many limitations of conventional socket-based prosthetics. 

Unlike traditional prosthetic limbs, which can cause discomfort, skin issues, and joint complications, osseointegration enables a more intuitive, stable, and lifelike experience. The OPL not only improves balance and comfort but also allows for osseoperception, a phenomenon where users regain sensory feedback through the prosthetic.  

“Our goal has always been to restore mobility and dignity to amputees. By bringing this technology to the UAE, we’re building local capabilities and offering hope to those who have waited too long for the right kind of care,” said Prof. Dr. Al Muderis, who has treated more than 1,200 patients globally using this technology.  

The opening of the clinic marks a critical moment in the region’s healthcare evolution. The Middle East region is observed to have a comparatively higher prevalence of amputations, with a significant proportion resulting from trauma, particularly conflict-related and road-traffic injuries, which tend to impact younger age groups more. 

“The launch of the Al Muderis Osseointegration Clinic reinforces our commitment to bringing the world’s most advanced medical solutions to our communities. We envision this clinic not only as a center of excellence for patient care but also as a hub for knowledge transfer. Through surgeon training, research initiatives, and community outreach, we will extend this innovation across the UAE and beyond,” said Mr. John Sunil, Group CEO of Burjeel Holdings. 

Prof. Dr. Al Muderis, whose journey from fleeing Iraq as a refugee to becoming a globally respected surgeon has inspired many, emphasized the deeply personal mission behind the clinic. 

“Mobility is life,” he says. “Our mission is to ensure that limb loss never defines or limits a person’s future. Over the past decade, we pioneered the single-stage technique and enabled the technology for diabetic, vascular, pediatric, transtibial, and hip-disarticulation amputees. With this technology, we empower people with even the most complex injuries to reclaim their independence and quality of life.” 

The first-of-its-kind comprehensive cancer facility at Burjeel Specialty Hospital brings advanced surgical and medical oncology to the Northern Emirates, expanding access to world-class cancer care

Sharjah, 10 May 2025 – In a major step towards redefining cancer care delivery, Sheikh Salem bin Abdulrahman Al Qasimi, Chairman of the Sharjah Ruler’s Office, inaugurated the Burjeel Cancer Institute (BCI) at Burjeel Specialty Hospital, Sharjah. The inauguration was also attended by His Excellency Abdullah Sultan bin Khadem, Executive Director of the Sharjah Charity International and senior leaders from Burjeel Holdings. The opening of this first-of-its-kind comprehensive oncology center highlights Burjeel Holdings’ ongoing commitment to making specialized oncology services more accessible across the UAE.

Professor Humaid Al Shamsi, CEO of Burjeel Cancer Institute and President of the Emirates Oncology Society, expressed his appreciation to Sheikh Salem bin Abdulrahman Al Qasimi for gracing the occasion and inaugurating the institute, which marks a major milestone and a pioneering advancement in cancer care. Sheikh Salem bin Abdulrahman Al Qasimi was also presented with the book Healthcare in the United Arab Emirates by Prof. Humaid Al Shamsi. He was also given a tour of the institute’s facilities, showcasing its advanced capabilities.

“With the opening of our oncology center in Sharjah, we are taking a major step toward decentralizing cancer care and extending our patient-first model to the Northern Emirates. This is the first facility of its kind in the region to offer fully integrated surgical and medical oncology services. Our mission is to provide timely, advanced, and compassionate care, ensuring every patient has access to the best treatment options, close to where they live,” said Prof. Humaid Al Shamsi.

The new center is designed to deliver integrated surgical and medical oncology services under one roof. The facility ensures that patients in the Northern Emirates can now receive cutting-edge cancer diagnostics, treatments, and procedures without the need to travel outside. It is equipped with the latest diagnostic and treatment technologies and staffed by a multidisciplinary team of subspecialty oncology surgeons and allied health professionals.

Services include chemotherapy, immunotherapy, precision-targeted therapies, and complex surgical oncology procedures. The facility also features dedicated chemotherapy suites designed to enhance patient comfort and privacy, providing a personalized and supportive environment throughout the treatment process.

“This new cancer center in Sharjah represents our belief that every patient, regardless of location, deserves timely access to the best possible care. By bringing comprehensive oncology services to the heart of the Northern Emirates, we are reinforcing our mission to deliver excellence in healthcare and support communities through innovation and compassion,” said Mr. John Sunil, Group CEO of Burjeel Holdings.

The Sharjah facility complements BCI’s existing network, including its flagship center at Burjeel Medical City in Abu Dhabi and its recently launched facility in Al Ain, reinforcing its position as the largest cancer care network in the UAE. BCI is planning to open a center in Oman later this month in its first move outside the UAE

The center supports individuals living with thalassemia and sickle cell disease by delivering a holistic, patient-centric, and evidence-based model of care

ABU DHABI: Under the patronage and in the presence of Her Highness Sheikha Shaikha bint Saif bin Mohamed Al Nahyan, wife of His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Khalifa Al Nahyan Advisor to His Highness the President, and Chairperson of the Emirates Thalassemia Society, Burjeel Holdings has launched a Thalassemia & Sickle Cell Center at its flagship quaternary care hospital, Burjeel Medical City (BMC) in Abu Dhabi, in a step towards redefining the standard of care for individuals with inherited blood disorders.

Her Highness Sheikha Shamma bint Sultan bin Khalifa Al Nahyan said in the opening speech she delivered on this occasion: “In my mother’s unwavering commitment to thalassemia patients, I have witnessed how compassion, when paired with vision and persistence, can transform countless lives across generations and beyond borders. The newly inaugurated Thalassemia and Sickle Cell Center by Burjeel Holdings’ state-of-the-art facility will provide compassionate and comprehensive care to patients and their families.”

The center was inaugurated in a grand ceremony also attended by His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Sultan bin Khalifa Al Nahyan, Dr. Shamsheer Vayalil, Founder and Chairman of Burjeel Holdings, Mr. Omran Al Khoori, Board Member, and a number of Burjeel leaders. The opening was also attended by members of the Board of Directors of the Emirates Thalassemia Society and a number of leaders from the Department of Health in Abu Dhabi.

The center supports individuals living with thalassemia and sickle cell disease by delivering a holistic, patient-centric, and evidence-based model of care, supported by a multidisciplinary team of world-renowned experts.

The center offers fully integrated outpatient services and a dedicated transfusion unit operating seven days a week. The center is distinguished by several key differentiators, including extended transfusion services across the UAE via Burjeel’s hospital network, internationally validated MRI quantification of iron overload in the heart and liver, and in-house molecular genotyping capabilities. Patients are cared for by experts with decades of experience in managing both pediatric and adult cases of thalassemia and sickle cell disease. With the region reporting considerably high prevalence rates of thalassemia and sickle cell disease, the center aims to bridge critical gaps in long-term care. The center’s strategic location within a quaternary care facility ensures direct access to advanced medical and surgical subspecialties, enabling seamless referrals and comprehensive management of complications.

“Our goal is to establish the Thalassemia & Sickle Cell Center as a regional hub for cutting-edge care and research in rare blood disorders. What makes this center unique is the combination of global clinical expertise, access to the latest therapies, and the ability to deliver care in line with international guidelines authored by the very people leading the services here. We are not only focused on treatment, but also on improving patients’ quality of life and future outcomes through holistic, personalized care,” said Prof. Khaled Musallam, Group Chief Research Officer, Burjeel Holdings, and Director of the Thalassemia & Sickle Cell Center.

With an international advisory board of global key opinion leaders, the center adheres to leading global standards including those of the Thalassaemia International Federation with necessary local adaptations to meet the specific needs of patients in the UAE and wider region. Its continuum of care begins at diagnosis and spans childhood to adulthood, with tailored transition programs and advanced treatments for conditions including transfusion-dependent β-thalassemia (TDT), non-transfusion-dependent β-thalassemia (NTDT), and sickle cell disease.

The center will also work closely with the Center for Research on Rare Blood Disorders (CR-RBD) at BMC also headed by Prof. Khaled Musallam, to identify and enroll eligible patients in global clinical trials, ensuring access to the latest innovations in treatment including disease-modifying and curative therapies. CR-RBD has swiftly become recognized as one of the most active hubs for research on hemoglobin disorders globally.