UAE Provides $64.5 Million Financial Aid To Al-Makassed Hospital In East Jerusalem

The UAE has pledged $64.5 million to Al-Makassed Hospital in East Jerusalem, following directives from President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan. This financial support is intended to cover operational costs, enhance medical staff capabilities, and upgrade facilities. The initiative underscores the UAE's commitment to bolstering healthcare services for Palestinians.

Al-Makassed Hospital, a key medical institution in East Jerusalem, was inaugurated in 1968 with just 20 beds. It has since grown to accommodate over 250 beds and employs around 950 staff members. The hospital provides essential healthcare services, including cardiac surgeries and paediatric care, to a wide range of patients.

H.H. Sheikh Theyab bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan emphasised the UAE's dedication to supporting Palestinian society. He highlighted President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan's unwavering interest in aiding the Palestinian people, particularly in the healthcare sector. The UAE collaborates with international bodies like WHO to ensure effective support.

Dr. Tareq Ahmed Al-Ameri, Chairman of the UAE Aid Agency, stated that the UAE works with global and regional organisations to enhance healthcare services in East Jerusalem and other priority areas. "Al-Makassed Hospital is crucial for providing specialised medical care," he noted.

Al-Makassed Hospital offers a residency programme accredited by both the Palestinian Medical Council and the Jordanian Medical Council. This programme covers 13 medical disciplines and has graduated over 540 specialised doctors. The hospital serves more than 66,000 patients from Jerusalem, the West Bank, and Gaza annually.

Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus of WHO expressed gratitude for the UAE's support: "WHO is grateful to the United Arab Emirates for its support of Al Makassed Hospital so that it can continue to provide essential care." This assistance helps improve various departments and train over 100 residents across multiple specialities.

Dr. Omar Abu Zayda, Director-General of Al-Makassed Hospital, thanked the UAE for its ongoing support: "The UAE's unwavering commitment allows us to sustain our operations efficiently." He acknowledged the historic backing from the UAE since its founding by Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan.

The hospital's expansion reflects its vital role in serving Palestinians' healthcare needs. With continuous support from entities like the UAE, Al-Makassed aims to further improve healthcare services for women and children in particular.

With inputs from WAM