Dubai Health opens new pediatric cardiac intensive care unit at Al Jalila Children’s Hospital

UAE—Dubai Health has inaugurated the Pediatric Cardiac Intensive Care Unit (CICU) at Al Jalila Children’s Hospital, marking a significant advancement in specialized child healthcare services.

Al Jalila Foundation’s The Hope Fund established the unit with generous support from Mr. Mohamed Saleh Abdulla, whose name now appears on the hospital’s Giving Wall in recognition of his contribution.

The inauguration ceremony brought together key healthcare leaders, including His Excellency Dr. Amer Sharif, CEO of Dubai Health and President of Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences (MBRU).

Dr. Abdulla Al Khayat, CEO Emeritus of Al Jalila Children’s Hospital; Dr. Amer Al Zarooni, CEO of Al Jalila Foundation; Dr. Tarek Fathey, Chief Clinical Officer; and Dr. Mohamed Al Awadhi, Executive Director of the Women and Children’s Campus, also attended the event.

Expanding cardiac care capabilities

Al Jalila Children’s Hospital’s Pediatric Cardiology service currently performs approximately 200 pediatric cardiac surgeries annually.

The department also conducts more than 300 cardiac catheterization procedures each year, reinforcing Dubai Health’s capacity to deliver comprehensive, specialized care for various cardiac conditions affecting children.

Family-centered care approach

The new ten-bed unit reflects Dubai Health’s “Children First” commitment by advancing pediatric cardiac care standards.

The facility follows a patient- and family-centered model that recognizes the importance of keeping families together during treatment.

Parents can remain close to their children, with comfortable beds provided beside each patient bed.

A dedicated family area offers a welcoming space where relatives can gather and find support during challenging times.

Community partnership makes impact

Mr. Mohamed Saleh Abdulla emphasized the significance of investing in children’s health for future generations.

“We are honored to contribute to this unit, as community partnerships play an important role in expanding specialized services and ensuring patients receive the care they need,” he said.

Abdulla expressed hope that the initiative will support Al Jalila Children’s Hospital in continuing to make a meaningful difference in young patients’ lives and their families.

Strengthening healthcare ecosystem

Dr. Amer Al Zarooni highlighted Al Jalila Foundation’s ongoing collaboration with partners to launch programs that create meaningful impact.

“These efforts support the healthcare ecosystem and expand access to advanced care, ultimately improving health outcomes and quality of life for our patients and the wider community,” he explained.

Dr. Mohamed Al Awadhi noted that the new unit strengthens the continuum of cardiac care available to children at the hospital.

“By bringing together specialized expertise and advanced clinical capabilities, we provide comprehensive care for children while supporting families throughout their journey,” he said.

The Hope Fund’s Role

Al Jalila Foundation launched The Hope Fund as a flagship initiative supporting Dubai Health facilities’ development and expanding access to advanced services that meet the community’s evolving needs.

Through partner contributions, the Fund enables sustainable impact that strengthens Dubai’s healthcare system and improves patient outcomes.