UAE To Construct 10 Global Hospitals Addressing Critical Healthcare Needs

The UAE has launched a significant initiative to address global healthcare disparities through the Zayed Humanitarian Legacy Initiative. Announced in March by President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, this programme aims to build up to 10 hospitals over the next decade, with an investment of around US$150 million (AED550 million). These hospitals will cater to underserved communities, improving access to essential medical care.

The first hospital under this programme, the UAE-Indonesia Hospital for Cardiac Diseases, is currently being constructed in Surakarta, Central Java. This facility is expected to be completed by the last quarter of 2024 and will provide crucial services to thousands of heart disease patients. Heart diseases are a major cause of death and disability in Indonesia, with ischemic heart disease and stroke being particularly common.

Despite national insurance programmes expanding healthcare coverage, Indonesia's healthcare system struggles with the rising incidence of heart diseases. Lifestyle changes, urbanisation, and an ageing population have significantly increased the burden of these diseases. Access to healthcare remains uneven, especially in rural and remote areas.

This initiative underscores the UAE’s dedication to global health equity and international cooperation. It is part of the broader Zayed Humanitarian Legacy Initiative, which supports institutions and projects aimed at delivering aid, addressing inequality, and promoting sustainable development solutions. H.H. Sheikh Theyab bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan stated, "Under the guidance of President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, we are honoured to reinforce our dedication to the UAE’s enduring mission of improving global health."

Sheikh Shakhboot bin Nahyan Al Nahyan added that these hospitals will strengthen healthcare systems by effectively bridging critical health access gaps. He mentioned that the UAE-Indonesia Hospital for Cardiac Diseases would serve as a model for future projects within this programme.

Legacy of Generosity

The UAE's commitment to global philanthropy is deeply rooted in its history and values. Continuing the vision and generosity of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the UAE has contributed over $87 billion (AED320 billion) in foreign assistance since its founding. This reflects the nation's dedication to fostering international cooperation and solidarity.

The new hospital in Surakarta aims to improve specialised healthcare access and reduce the overall disease burden in Indonesia. While some healthcare facilities exist in Surakarta, access to high-quality specialised services is limited compared to larger urban centres.

This programme represents a significant investment in supporting global health under the Zayed Humanitarian Legacy Initiative. Overseeing this initiative is the International Humanitarian and Philanthropic Council, which aims to drive meaningful change by assisting underserved communities worldwide.

The launch of this hospital will mark a milestone for the UAE Global Hospitals Programme. It will enhance healthcare access for those least likely to receive medical care, embodying the UAE’s long-standing commitment to improving global health equity.

With inputs from WAM