The Ministry of Health and Prevention (MoHAP) has organised a series of Ramadani Majlises across the Emirates of Sharjah, Ajman, Umm Al Quwain, Ras Al Khaimah, and Fujairah, to promote the National Programme for Organ and Tissue Donation and Transplantation, “Hayat.”

Organised by MoHAP representative offices, the Ramadani gatherings aimed to raise awareness about the life-saving benefits of organ donation, which offer patients in need a second chance at life. The initiative comes as part of the ministry’s ongoing initiatives to stimulate community engagement with the national efforts, support the quality of life in the UAE and enhance the community’s health in line with the "We the UAE 2031" vision, which is set to build a world-class healthcare system.

The Majlises were attended by H.E. Dr Amin Hussain Al Amiri, Assistant Undersecretary of Health Regulations Sector, and the directors of MoHAP’s representative offices. Dr Ali Abdulkarim Al Obaidli, Chairman of the National Committee for Organ Transplantation, was also present, alongside local government officials and many community members.

Encouraging organ donation

The events featured extensive discussions between officials and the public about the crucial role of "Hayat" programme, which seeks to foster a culture of organ donation, both during life and posthumously.

The discussions also touched on new and innovative ways to boost the success of transplant surgeries and improve recovery outcomes for patients who are given a second chance at life.

Additionally, the gatherings provided attendees with necessary information on how to register for the programme, along with insights into the legislative and regulatory requirements and guidelines that govern organ donation and transplantation.

Health excellence

His Excellency Dr. Amin Al Amiri emphasised that Ramadan Majlises provide a perfect venue for raising public awareness about the transformative impact of organ donation, and showcasing how it offers patients a second chance at life and fosters better community health.

Al Amiri noted that “Hayat” programme has become a fundamental part of the UAE’s healthcare journey, reflecting the country’s remarkable achievements in the medical sector, which continues to experience a transformation shifts at all levels.

“The number of registered donors under the Hayat programme has now reached 32,704 individuals, while the total number of actual donors in the UAE stands at 331. The number of organs transplanted across the country has reached 1216,” H.E. Dr Al Amiri stated.

He added that the total number of patients who have undergone organ transplants within the UAE has risen to 1167 by 2024, figures that reflect the country’s significant progress in organ donation and transplantation.

Government approach

His Excellency noted that the Cabinet’s recent adoption of the executive regulations for the donation and transplantation of human organs and tissues reaffirms the government’s commitment to enhancing public health and delivering advanced treatment solutions that meet patient needs in line with the highest regulatory standards.

“The UAE will continue to develop a healthcare system that not only meets global standards but also touches lives in deeply meaningful ways. Guided by the vision of its wise leadership, the UAE is committed to shaping policies and legislation that truly uplift the quality of life for everyone.

“Organ transplantation is one of the most remarkable advancements in medicine,” said Dr Al Amiri. “It goes beyond replacing an organ—it restores lives, renews hope for families, and offers a fresh start to patients longing for a second chance.”

Comprehensive campaigns

Meanwhile, Dr Ali Abdulkarim Al Obaidli stated that the “Hayat” programme has become one of the fastest-growing initiatives globally in the field of organ donation, driven by comprehensive awareness campaigns and continuous community engagement.

Al Obaidli noted that regular outreach sessions across all emirates have played a fundamental role in highlighting the programme’s objectives and values, while first-hand testimonials from transplant recipients have helped inspire more people to register as donors. This showcases the growing public confidence in the country’s advanced healthcare infrastructure.

Additionally, Mohammed Abdullah Al Zarooni, Director of the Ministry’s Representative Office in Sharjah, stressed that the “Hayat” Programme is one of the Ministry’s most impactful humanitarian initiatives. He commended the positive response from the community, noting that many people have stepped forward to register as donors—driven by a strong belief in the power of giving and its profound role in saving lives and restoring hope.

Supporting Hayat

For his part, Hamad Taryam Al Shamsi, Director of the Ministry’s Representative Office in Ajman, stated that the office is committed to supporting the “Hayat” programme by expanding outreach efforts and strengthening partnerships with all segments of society.

“Ramadan Majlises are effective dialogue platforms to communicate impactful health messages,” he said. “We will spare no effort to build partnerships to ensure sustained support for this pioneering programme to help save the lives of patients with organ failure.”

Furthermore, Ali bin Jarsh Al Ghafli, Director of the Ministry’s Representative Office in Umm Al Quwain, stressed the “Hayat” programme is a deeply human and national initiative, one that brings communities together in a spirit of compassion and solidarity.

“Organ donation is one of the most powerful acts of giving—it can save lives and offer a second chance to someone waiting for hope,” Al Ghafli said.

He also praised the UAE leadership’s unlimited support for the programme, something which reaffirms its steadfast commitment to developing an integrated health sector and raising community awareness about the importance of donation as a noble mission.

Moreover, Mohammed Abdullah Al Shehhi, Director of the Ministry’s Representative Office in Ras Al Khaimah, noted that the office has launched several awareness campaigns targeting both government and private entities. “Our goal is to strengthen community participation in the Hayat programme, and we are proud to have achieved top registration numbers in October, November, January, and February among all representative offices,” he said.

Dr Mohammed Abdullah, Director of the Ministry’s Representative Office in Fujairah, stressed the importance of building strong partnerships across government, local, and private sectors to raise awareness about the “Hayat” programme and explain how it can upgrade the healthcare sector, enhance its competitiveness, adaptability, and overall effectiveness, while also aligning with the UAE’s national priorities and strategic objectives.