حضور إماراتي بارز في قائمة “إيكونومي ميدل إيست” لقادة الرعاية الصحية بالشرق الأوسط 2026
The United Arab Emirates is rapidly establishing itself as a global leader in healthcare innovation, and recent recognition from Economy Middle East solidifies this position. Their “30 Healthcare Leaders to Watch in 2026” list prominently features Emirati leaders, demonstrating the significant transformation underway in the nation’s health sector. This article delves into the key figures recognized, the driving forces behind the UAE’s healthcare success, and what this means for the future of healthcare in the UAE.
The Vanguard of Emirati Healthcare Leadership
The list compiled by Economy Middle East showcases a diverse group of individuals shaping the future of health. Leading the charge are prominent Emirati figures like Ahmed bin Ali Al Sayegh, Minister of Health and Community Protection, and Mansoor Ibrahim Al Mansouri, Chairman of the Department of Health – Abu Dhabi.
Other key Emirati leaders included are:
- Dr. Alawi Al Sheikh Ali, Director General of the Dubai Health Authority
- Dr. Amer Ahmed Sharif, CEO of Dubai Healthcare Corporation
- Dr. Youssef Mohammed Al Serkal, Director General of the Emirates Health Services Corporation
- Dr. Rashid Al Suwaidi, Director General of the Abu Dhabi Public Health Center
- Dr. Marwan Al Kaabi, CEO of Sheikh Shakhbout Medical City
- Imran Al Khoury, Chairman of Response Plus Holding
This strong representation highlights the UAE’s commitment to cultivating homegrown talent and empowering national leaders within its healthcare system.
Global Collaboration Fueling Innovation
The list isn’t solely comprised of Emirati nationals. It also includes leaders from international and regional companies who have strategically positioned the UAE as a hub for their operations. This collaborative approach is a cornerstone of the UAE’s healthcare strategy.
Notable international leaders featured include:
- Eskra Rick, EVP International Affairs at AstraZeneca
- Hein van Eck, CEO of Mediclinic Middle East
- George Pascal Haber, CEO of Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi
- Nicole Serotine, CEO of the Abu Dhabi Institute of Life Health
- Akram Sami Dahini, VP & Regional Director at Oracle Health
- Osama El-Haj, General Manager & Head of Human Pharmaceuticals for the Near East & UAE at Boehringer Ingelheim
- Alisha Moopen, Director – Healthcare Group of Aster DM Healthcare
- Dimitrios Mouravasiles, CEO of M42 (based in Abu Dhabi)
- Eli Shalev, President & CEO of Global Markets at GE HealthCare
- Rodrigo Buga, Head of Middle East, Russia & Africa at Pfizer
- Shanila Laigo, CEO of Medcare Hospitals & Medical Centers
- Sharif Bashara, CEO of American Hospital Dubai
- Shaista Asif, CEO of Pure Health
- Vivek Kanade, General Manager for the Middle East & Africa at Siemens Healthineers
- Vincenzo Ventricelli, CEO of Philips Middle East & Turkey & Africa
- Zenobia Shams, Co-Chairperson of Zulekha Healthcare Group
- Zeid Khayat, General Manager of Khayat Investments.
This blend of local expertise and global perspectives is driving innovation and accelerating the adoption of best practices.
Key Drivers of UAE Healthcare Leadership
The report identifies several strategic pillars underpinning the UAE’s rise as a healthcare leader. These factors are not isolated but rather interconnected, creating a synergistic effect. Digital health transformation is paramount, with leaders embracing advanced technologies like the Emirati Genome Project and integrating it with electronic health records to deliver personalized care. This focus on precision medicine is a key differentiator.
The Role of Strategic Partnerships
Collaboration is another crucial element. The UAE fosters close partnerships between the public and private sectors, as well as with leading global academic institutions. This collaborative ecosystem facilitates knowledge sharing, resource pooling, and the rapid translation of research into practical applications.
Sustainability and Governance in Healthcare
Increasingly, sustainability is being integrated into the core of healthcare operations. The UAE is committed to reducing the carbon footprint of medical facilities and adopting Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles. This demonstrates a long-term vision for responsible healthcare delivery.
Investing in Future Healthcare Professionals
The UAE recognizes the importance of a skilled workforce. Significant investments are being made in medical education through institutions like the Mohammed bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences, ensuring a pipeline of qualified national healthcare professionals. This commitment to medical education is vital for sustained growth.
The Future of Healthcare in the UAE: A Regional Hub
The prominence of Emirati leaders on this list for 2026 underscores the UAE’s evolution into an “exporter” of healthcare innovation and policies that prioritize human well-being. The nation is not simply adopting advancements; it is actively shaping the future of healthcare innovation.
The UAE’s success story serves as a model for other nations in the region, demonstrating the power of strategic investment, collaborative partnerships, and a commitment to leveraging technology for the benefit of all. Looking ahead, the UAE is poised to further solidify its position as a leading global destination for healthcare, attracting both patients and talent. To learn more about the latest developments in UAE healthcare, explore resources from the Department of Health – Abu Dhabi and the Dubai Health Authority.
