The Ministry of Health and Prevention (MoHAP) has taken part in the 30th International Congress of the Transplantation Society (TTS 2024) held in Istanbul as a major sponsor, through its National Programme for Donation and Transplantation of Human Organs and Tissue - ‘Hayat.’
At the congress, the Ministry showcased its achievements in organ transplantation, a testament to the successful integration of federal and local efforts, collaboration between health and academic sectors, and adherence to international best practices. The event also provided valuable opportunities for knowledge exchange, international cooperation, and exploration of the latest developments in transplantation.
Equally important, MoHAP was granted an exclusive opportunity to present the Hayat Programme during a special symposium held prior to the TTS 2024 opening ceremony.
The Ministry’s participation in the congress went beyond mere presence; it was characterised by significant scientific contributions, including the presentation of research papers highlighting the country's success in utilizing cutting-edge organ transplantation technologies and post-transplant management.
The Ministry's delegation, which included representatives from its strategic partners from government and private health organizations, also engaged in scientific discussions and workshops, offering valuable perspectives on the challenges and opportunities facing national and regional transplant programmes.
Moreover, since launching Hayat program in 2017, the UAE has successfully performed 1,000 transplants. The International Society for Organ Donation and Procurement has previously recognized the UAE as the fastest developing nation in organ donation globally. Leading the Gulf countries in this vital area, the UAE boasts a donation rate of 9.1 donors per million population, significantly ahead of Saudi Arabia at 4.08 and Kuwait at 7.67, thanks to the country’s efficiency of the health system and the advanced capabilities in terms of human and technological.
Global Leadership
Dr. Ali Abdulkarim Al Obaidli, Chairman of the National Committee for Organ Transplantation, emphasized that the Ministry's participation in the prestigious conference, together with its strategic partners from government and private health organizations, reflects the country's commitment to becoming a world leader in organ transplantation.
He attributed this progress to the support of the wise leadership, noting that it aligns perfectly with the vision and strategies outlined in “We the UAE 2031”. "We were honoured to have the exclusive opportunity to present Hayat Program at this global conference," Dr Al Obaidli stated. "This platform allowed us to showcase the UAE's remarkable achievements in the field of organ transplantation to a vast international audience."
Improving the Quality of Life for Patients
Al Obaidli noted that the UAE pays utmost attention to promoting a culture of organ donation, adding that the spirit of giving is deeply ingrained in Emirati society, further reinforced by legislation and directives.
"The TTS 2024 was even more special thanks to the recent passing of 77th World Health Assembly resolution on global organ and tissue shortage. This resolution provides a roadmap for countries to support one another through increased collaboration, cross-border integration, expanded universal health insurance coverage, and a stronger emphasis on strategies to prevent organ failure."
Supported by the new law of 2023, the UAE program was an inspiring model to other countries as it captured all best practices and had clear examples of buildings complementing services with other countries especially that the mandatory health insurance coverage for organ and tissue donation and transplantation services are due in the coming period," he stated.
Improving patients' wellbeing
Dr Al Obaidli highlighted that through international participations, the Ministry of Health and Prevention, along with other UAE health authorities, strives to stay up to date with the latest global innovations, not only to promote sustainable healthcare but also to enhance patient quality of life by adopting innovative solutions that improve transplant success rates and outcomes, in line with international best practices
Promoting country's position
H.E. Dr. Essam Al Zarooni, Acting Executive Director of the Clinical Services Sector at Emirates Health Services (EHS), expressed his pride in the UAE's role as an official sponsor of the International Congress of The Transplantation Society (TTS 2024). He emphasized that this participation reinforces the UAE’s position as a pioneer in advanced healthcare and reflects the visionary leadership's commitment to improving the quality of life for patients suffering from organ failure, both regionally and globally.
Dr. Al Zarooni highlighted that the National Program for Donation and Transplantation of Human Organs and Tissue, "Hayat," has become a model both regionally and internationally, setting advanced standards that serve as a key reference in this vital field.
He added, "Emirates Health Services strives to drive innovation in organ transplantation by developing medical infrastructure and building an integrated and sustainable healthcare system that meets future needs. This approach focuses on enhancing the capabilities of the national medical workforce and equipping them with the highest global standards, which contributes to delivering exceptional and advanced healthcare services to organ failure patients, ensuring their improved quality of life and well-being.”
Sophisticated system
Dr. Rashed Obaid Alsuwaidi, the Executive Director of Healthcare Workforce Planning Sector at the Department of Health – Abu Dhabi (DoH) said: “In line with the National Programme for Donation and Transplantation of Human Organs and Tissue - ‘Hayat’, Abu Dhabi has showcased its capabilities in organ transplantation through its advanced and resilient healthcare infrastructure. This success is further reinforced by the Emirate’s talented workforce and the implementation of innovative procedures and technologies across the sector. Partaking in the International Congress of the Transplantation Society 2024 (TTS) has provided DoH with a platform to showcase Abu Dhabi’s distinguished expertise in organ transplantation. Furthermore, it offers the Department an opportunity to exchange experiences and knowledge within the field to enhance international collaborations. These efforts contribute to improving the quality of healthcare provided to patients and enhancing the effectiveness of transplant procedures by leveraging the latest innovative solutions.”
Sharing experiences and knowledge
Dr. Muna Tahlak, Chief Medical Officer at Dubai Health said: “We extend our sincere thanks to the Ministry of Health and Prevention (MoHAP) for inviting Dubai Health to participate in the 30th International Congress of The Transplantation Society. This conference is a vital platform for sharing knowledge and advancing global efforts in organ donation and transplantation, which are key to improving patient outcomes worldwide.
Dr Muna added, “during the event, we presented how our integrated academic health system works collaboratively to strengthen the UAE's organ donation and transplantation program, HAYAT. Thanks to the expertise of Dubai Health surgeons, over 130 kidney transplants have been successfully conducted since 2016, with almost 40 percent of these surgeries conducted for children. Through our initiatives and specialized care, we aim to enhance the reputation of the UAE in the field of organ donation and transplantation, and open new horizons for international cooperation that benefit our patients, and the quality of health services provided.’
Developing Organ Donation Standards
Dr. Hanan Ali Mubarak Obaid, Director of Health Policies & Standards Department at Dubai Health Authority (DHA), stated, "The UAE's achievements in organ transplantation, through Hayat Program, would not have been possible had it not been for the collaborative efforts of health authorities across the country and the shared commitment to providing advanced healthcare to patients in need, saving lives, and promoting a culture of organ donation within the community."
Obaid highlighted that DHA will spare no effort to develop health standards that regulate organ donation and transplantation services in the emirate, enabling healthcare facilities to deliver services in alignment with the best international practices.