The Ministry of Health and Prevention (MoHAP) and the Department of Health —Abu Dhabi (DoH) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) at GITEX Global 2024 in Dubai, to bolster joint efforts in health data and information exchange.
The agreement, signed by H.E Dr. Salem Abdulrahman Al Darmaki, Advisor to the Minister of Health and Prevention, and Dr Rashed Obaid Al Suwaidi, Executive Director of Healthcare Workforce Planning Sector at Department of Health – Abu Dhabi, seeks to integrate statistical efforts and national disease registries across the UAE. Inked, Present at the signing ceremony were senior officials from both sides.
The MoU outlines a framework for the organised exchange, issuance, and dissemination of data, adhering to international standards and best practices. It aims to make full use of health records and databases to enhance system performance through detailed studies and reports, in addition to empowering the workforce, equipping them with skills they need to manage everything from data collection, documentation, and auditing to sharing and dissemination.
Partner Integration
H.E Dr. Mohammed Salim Al Olama, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Health and Prevention, emphasised that the recently signed MoU with the Department of Health—Abu Dhabi represents a significant step forward in enhancing collaboration in health data exchange across the UAE.
“This agreement aims to reinforce strategic partnerships and drive integration of statistical work and national disease registries. Such initiatives will not only enable us to make informed decisions based on accurate and comprehensive data, but will also ensure that health services are proactive, interconnected, and innovatively based on digital insights.”
His Excellency added, “Through this MoU, we will leverage the combined expertise of both parties in health data management to establish collaborative work mechanisms that make the most of our resources and enhance the quality of health services for the community.”
He added, “The secure and effective exchange of health information is the backbone for building a healthcare system that is not only smart and sustainable but also competitive and in step with national priorities.”
Concluding his remarks, Al Olama said, “Aligned with the Ministry's vision, this agreement is set to promote digital health in the UAE through strategic policy planning and data-driven research. We are committed to making significant progress in proactive and preventive healthcare. We, at the ministry, will continue to collaborate closely with our partners at DoH Abu Dhabi to implement this MoU’s terms effectively and achieve our shared goals, thereby enhancing health outcomes and the quality of life for everyone in the UAE.”
Strengthening cooperation frameworks
H.E. Dr. Noura Khamis Al Ghaithi, Undersecretary of Department of Health—Abu Dhabi stated, “In Abu Dhabi, we are committed to developing the smartest health system in the world, recognising the vital role that data plays in achieving this vision.
“Our efforts to harness the potential of health data have significantly enhanced the emirate’s health infrastructure, providing essential insights that allow us to transition from a reactive healthcare approach to a proactive one. This shift focusses on prevention and delivers a personalised, high-quality healthcare experience for community members.” Al Ghaithi added.
“Today, we are pleased to continue collaborating with our partners at the Ministry of Health and Prevention. Together, we aim to strengthen frameworks for cooperation and data exchange, fostering a more comprehensive understanding of societal needs and future challenges. This way, we can focus our joint efforts on protecting and enhancing the health and safety of our community,” She further said.