Dubai’s Commitment to Healthcare: The Onboarding of 25 Emirati Nurses
On the opening day of Ru’ya Careers UAE 2025, an exciting milestone was achieved at Dubai Health as they welcomed 25 new Emirati nurses into their growing healthcare workforce. This significant addition not only highlights the organization’s commitment to nurturing national talent but also marks three years of continuous growth in nursing within Dubai Health.
A Celebratory Ceremony
The momentous announcement took place during a ceremony held at Dubai Health’s exhibition stand. Esteemed guests were in attendance, including Abdullah Ali bin Zayed Al-Falasi, Director General of the Dubai Government Human Resources Department; Eng. Marwan Ahmed Bin Ghalita, Director General of Dubai Municipality; and Dr. Amer Sharif, CEO of Dubai Health and President of the Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences (MBRU). This gathering underscored the importance of the event and the role of local governance in advancing healthcare.
A Symbol of Care
Each newly onboarded nurse received a “Patient First” pin, representing Dubai Health’s foundational value that emphasizes patient care. This meaningful gesture aims to inspire the new nurses to embed patient-centric principles deeply into their professional practice. The commitment to placing patients at the heart of healthcare is a recurring theme that resonates through Dubai Health’s programs and policies.
Expanding Emiratization in Nursing
Dr. Amer Sharif proudly noted the significant strides in Emiratization over the past three years, with the number of Emirati nurses rising 150 percent from just 48 nurses in 2023 to 120 today. This growth reflects Dubai Health’s unwavering dedication to building a robust, homegrown healthcare workforce that meets the needs of the local population. Moreover, the total nursing workforce across all nationalities has surpassed 4,400, enhancing the delivery of safe and compassionate care—an essential part of Dubai Health’s mission.
Inspiring Future Generations
An essential factor contributing to this surge in Emirati nurses is the initiatives set forth by Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai. The recent decision to name the College of Nursing and Midwifery at MBRU after Sheikha Hind bint Maktoum bin Juma Al Maktoum has captivated the interest of Emiratis, motivating many to pursue a career in nursing. This change not only symbolizes honor but also serves to inspire future generations to consider this noble profession.
Academic Opportunities at MBRU
The Hind Bint Maktoum College of Nursing and Midwifery at MBRU offers a wide array of academic programs designed to equip future healthcare professionals with the necessary skills. Educational offerings include master’s degrees, postgraduate diplomas, and specialized nursing certificates covering intensive, pediatric, cardiac, and emergency disciplines. An introduction of a Bachelor of Science in Nursing program is on the horizon, further diversifying the educational landscape for aspiring nurses.
Empowering National Talent
Khalifa Baqer, Chief Operating Officer at Dubai Health, articulated the significance of these new appointments. “The onboarding of 25 Emirati nurses marks a pivotal step in empowering national talent within the healthcare sector,” he stated. Baqer emphasized that Emiratis play a crucial role in establishing a sustainable future in healthcare. By focusing on nursing, which is a fundamental pillar of patient care at Dubai Health, the organization is committing to improving healthcare standards across the board.
Career Pathways and Opportunities
Dubai Health’s active participation in the Ru’ya Careers UAE exhibition serves multiple purposes. It not only showcases career pathways available within its integrated academic health system but also creates direct employment opportunities tailored for Emiratis in various healthcare specialties. These efforts reflect a steadfast commitment to attracting and retaining local talent, ensuring that the healthcare landscape in Dubai continues to flourish.
In essence, the recent onboarding of Emirati nurses illustrates Dubai Health’s ongoing dedication to enhancing the nation’s healthcare system. The interplay of community support, academic resources, and governmental directives amplifies the potential for a robust and sustainable healthcare future powered by local talent.
