The United Arab Emirates has launched an ambitious initiative through the Zayed Humanitarian Legacy Initiative, introduced in March by President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan. With a significant financial commitment of around USD 150 million (AED 550 million) over the next ten years, the UAE Global Hospitals Program aims to build up to 10 hospitals. Each facility will be designed to address the healthcare requirements of underserved communities, thereby improving health outcomes for populations with limited access to medical services.
The UAE-Indonesia Hospital for Cardiac Diseases in Surakarta, Central Java, is scheduled to be inaugurated as the first facility under the UAE Global Hospitals Program. Completion is expected by the end of 2024, marking a significant milestone for the International Humanitarian and Philanthropic Council. The hospital aims to provide critical services to a large number of patients with heart disease.
The program reflects the UAE’s enduring dedication to promoting global health fairness and fostering international collaboration. It signifies a substantial investment in supporting global health through the Zayed Humanitarian Legacy Initiative. This initiative aims to aid institutions and projects dedicated to providing assistance, tackling inequality, and promoting sustainable development solutions worldwide.
His Highness Sheikh Theyab bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Chair of the International Humanitarian and Philanthropic Council, stated, “Under the guidance of His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, we are honoured to reinforce our dedication to the UAE’s enduring mission of improving global health. Over the coming decade, this initiative will drive meaningful change, embodying our commitment to assisting the underserved and enhancing the wellbeing and dignity of communities worldwide.”
His Excellency Sheikh Shakhboot bin Nahyan Al Nahyan, Minister of State and Chair of the International Health Advisory Committee at the International Humanitarian and Philanthropic Council, said, “The hospitals established through this initiative will bolster healthcare systems, equipping them to bridge crucial health access gaps effectively. The UAE-Indonesia Hospital for Cardiac Diseases will not only deliver specialized medical services but also stand as a model for future projects within this program.”
Following in the footsteps of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan’s inspiring vision and generosity, the UAE is recognized as one of the most generous donor nations globally. Recent data indicates that since its founding in 1971, the UAE has contributed over Dh320 billion in foreign aid. This dedication to global philanthropy is deeply embedded in the UAE’s history and values, demonstrating the nation’s unwavering commitment to fostering international cooperation and solidarity.