Burjeel Holdings: Pioneering diabetes care from space to earth

Diabetes often arrives quietly. It begins as subtle shifts in body chemistry that if left unchecked, can alter lives. Today, over 500 million people around the world live with this chronic condition, many unaware of its complications. Late diagnoses, limited access to care, and low public awareness continue to push these numbers upward.

World Diabetes Day, observed every November 14, serves as a global call to action. It urges everyone to make diabetes care equitable, affordable, and innovative.

The extensive healthcare network under Burjeel Holdings is at the forefront of this mission, advancing change through its breakthrough diabetes research, Suite Ride, and expert clinical services across its network of facilities.

Suite Ride: Transforming care in space and on earth

At Burjeel, diabetes care is guided by the belief that “diabetes shouldn’t put an end to anyone’s dreams.” The Suite Ride research, conducted in microgravity aboard the International Space Station (ISS) during the Axiom-4 space mission, embodies this principle. The findings from this collaborative mission with the US-based Axiom Space demonstrated that everyday diabetes management tools used by millions on earth, such as continuous glucose monitors (CGMs) and insulin pens, can operate reliably in space, enabling end-to-end diabetes monitoring from space to ground and back again.

This discovery not only unlocked the potential to send the first astronaut with diabetes into space but also provided new solutions for remote healthcare on earth, bridging gaps in medical accessibility.

Dr Mohammad Fityan, Chief Medical Officer at Burjeel Holdings and Clinical Lead for the Burjeel–Ax-4 Space Health Research, said, “Suite Ride reflects our commitment, this World Diabetes Day, to push boundaries for patients everywhere. What we achieved in space is shaping more equitable and connected diabetes care on earth, strengthening our mission to support communities with early detection, education, and continuous care.”

The Suite Ride initiative delivered several historic firsts, including the first continuous glucose monitoring of crew aboard the space station, the first insulin pens ever flown to space station, and the first validation of glucose monitoring across multiple measurement methods on the space station. The research continues to evolve, aiming to improve diabetes care for the benefit of people on and off the planet.

Burjeel Medical City: Providing comprehensive, specialised diabetes care

While Suite Ride extends the boundaries of what’s possible for diabetes care, the Group continues to apply the same spirit of innovation and excellence across its advanced facilities. At Burjeel Medical City (BMC), the Endocrinology Department provides comprehensive, specialised care for a wide range of hormonal and metabolic disorders, including diabetes, thyroid diseases, and growth issues. The department is also equipped with innovative technologies such as Sudoscan, a non-invasive assessment method for sweat gland function that aids in the early detection and management of diabetic neuropathy. In addition, through a multidisciplinary approach, specialists at BMC offer patients individualised treatment plans that include medication management, lifestyle modifications, and education on disease management.

Burjeel Hospital Abu Dhabi: Leading diabetes and endocrinology care

Equipped with advanced technology and world-class expertise, Burjeel Hospital in Abu Dhabi provides comprehensive diabetes and endocrinology services to address the needs of both adults and children. The Department of Diabetes & Endocrinology offers advanced diagnostics, personalised treatment plans, and multidisciplinary care to manage all forms of diabetes, including Type 1, Type 2, gestational diabetes, and prediabetes.

“Early detection and proper care are critical in effectively managing diabetes,” says Dr Job Simon, Consultant Endocrinology and Diabetes. “Take Type 2 diabetes, the most common form, which often develops slowly and without symptoms. Many underestimate its seriousness, but if left untreated, it can damage vital organs, weaken the immune system, and result in life-threatening complications.”

The autoimmune-related Type 1 diabetes is usually diagnosed in children or young adults, while gestational diabetes develops during pregnancy. “Although gestational diabetes typically resolves after delivery, it increases the risk of future Type 2 diabetes. It is important to manage it with proper diet, exercise, blood sugar monitoring, and medication. In such cases, we closely monitor the health of both mother and baby,” explains Dr Christina Johnsson, Consultant Endocrinology.

In certain cases, diabetes can lead to complications such as nerve pain, kidney damage, and eye problems. Endocrinology specialists are equipped to handle such complex conditions through individualised care.

“Our goal is to prevent these complications through early intervention and personalised treatment plans that address each patient’s unique needs,” says Dr Mervat Hussin, Consultant, Endocrinology. “Hormone imbalances affect everyone differently. Individualised plans using medication, advanced therapies, and digital monitoring tools can restore balance and improve quality of life. With the right care and consistent follow-up, most long-term effects of diabetes can be prevented or reversed.”

Burjeel Hospital also provides diabetes education programmes focused on nutrition, physical activity, medication management, and preventive care for the eyes, feet, and kidneys, empowering patients with the knowledge and tools to live well with diabetes.

The hospital’s paediatric endocrinology division plays a vital role in managing diabetes in children, with a focus on growth, development, and long-term well-being. In addition to diabetes, it treats a wide range of hormonal and metabolic disorders in children, including thyroid, adrenal, and puberty-related conditions, as well as growth and bone metabolism issues.

“By identifying and managing diabetes early, we lay the foundation for a child’s lifelong health. Early intervention and healthy habits play a crucial role in their growth, development, and future. Our goal is to help children and their families understand the condition, embrace healthy routines, and live full, confident lives,” explains Dr Maha Elsheikh Elhassan, Consultant Paediatric Endocrinology (Growth Disorder & Puberty).

BFIT programme for personalised paediatric care

Its ongoing BFIT Programme, a dedicated weight management programme, helps children achieve and maintain a healthy weight through individualised plans, regular follow-ups, and family involvement. The multidisciplinary team aims to promote a healthy lifestyle to protect children from the long-term effects of obesity, chronic diseases, including diabetes. The focus is on well-being, not just weight loss.

A future set on innovation and compassion

The rising global burden of diabetes calls for transformative solutions. This is where innovations like Suite Ride mark a shift toward smarter, more connected, and more personalized care, bridging gaps in access, improving early detection, and empowering patients through education. By combining advanced research with compassionate clinical practice, Burjeel Holdings is redefining diabetes management and ensuring that care reaches every individual, whether in orbit or on Earth.

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Our Experts

Dr Job Simon

Consultant Endocrinology, Diabetes

Burjeel, Hospital, Abu Dhabi

Dr Christina Johnsson

Consultant Endocrinology

Burjeel Hospital, Abu Dhabi

Dr Mervat Hussin

Consultant Endocrinology

Burjeel Hospital, Abu Dhabi

Dr Maha Elsheikh Elhassan

Consultant Pediatric Endocrinology

Burjeel Hospital, Abu Dhabi

Dr Job Simon

Consultant Endocrinology, Diabetes,

Burjeel Hospital,

Abu Dhabi

Dr Christina Johnsson

Consultant Endocrinology,

Burjeel Hospital,

Abu Dhabi

Dr Mervat Hussin

Consultant Endocrinology,

Burjeel Hospital,

Abu Dhabi

Dr Maha Elsheikh Elhassan

Consultant Paediatric Endocrinology,

Burjeel Hospital,

Abu Dhabi