From donor to dream: Team UAE's transplant athletes head to world games

They’ve stared down illness, endured organ failure, and emerged from the operating room with someone else’s heartbeat — or breath — carrying them forward. Now, for the first time, a team of transplant recipients and living donors from the UAE will take their place on a global athletic stage, not just to compete, but to inspire.

In August 2025, Team UAE will make its debut at the World Transplant Games in Dresden, Germany, under the banner of Hayat, the UAE’s national programme for organ and tissue donation and transplantation. Their participation marks a turning point for the country — not only in sports, but in its growing movement to celebrate second chances and transform how we see life after transplant.

This milestone follows the UAE’s 2024 induction into the World Transplant Games Federation (WTGF), which celebrates life after transplant through sportsmanship and global solidarity. The WTG brings together transplant athletes, donor families, and living donors to promote awareness and honor the transformative power of organ donation.

A milestone moment for medical innovation and hope

Dr Ali Al Obaidli, Chairman of the UAE National Transplant Committee, emphasised the urgency of building awareness and access. “Global statistics show that only 10% of patients in need receive organ transplants. We must create more integrated healthcare models that empower the public to donate—and save lives.”

He described Hayat as a “collaborative national initiative” that unites federal, local, public, and private sectors to instill hope and advance lifesaving solutions.

Echoing that spirit, Dr Georges-Pascal Haber, CEO of Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi, said the UAE’s debut on the WTG stage is a testament to the nation’s investment in transplant care and innovation. “These inspiring athletes are our ambassadors of hope… Their journeys reflect the strength of medical progress, compassionate care, and the UAE’s limitless potential to transform lives.”

Team UAE: Symbols of triumph

 Each member of Team UAE has overcome daunting odds — and now stands as a beacon for what’s possible after transplant.

• Hind Juma, a living kidney donor, gave her kidney to her mother in 2022. “We’re both thriving now,” she says. “Resilience and love can rewrite even the toughest prognosis.”

• Katie Larkins, liver transplant recipient and team manager, was saved through the first UAE-Kuwait organ exchange in 2021. “I hope to inspire others to honour their donors and live fully,” she shares.

• Omar “OT” Tom, a two-time kidney transplant recipient, will race in the 100m and 200m sprints. “I’m running for gold—and to build a legacy for future transplant athletes.”

• Fatima Rashid began running one month post-transplant. Now training in track and field, she says: “Every movement is a tribute to resilience and the gift of life.”

• Justin Anthony, a double lung transplant recipient, survived pulmonary hypertension and now competes with renewed strength. “I was living on borrowed time—my miracle came through.”

• Husena Beguwala, also a double lung transplant recipient, advocates for mental health and rare disease awareness. Her mission: “To show that transplant can rewrite entire futures.”

A message beyond medals

Team UAE manager Katie Larkins calls the delegation “a living reminder that life after transplantation can be active, meaningful, and fulfilling.” She adds: “Our participation shows the UAE’s commitment to both honouring donors and encouraging healthy, thriving lives post-transplant.”

More than athletes, the team symbolises the spirit of Hayat — a national promise that second chances are possible, myths around transplants can be broken, and those waiting for organs are not forgotten.

What are the World Transplant Games?

First held in Portsmouth in 1978, the World Transplant Games are an international, multi-sport event for organ transplant recipients, living donors, and donor families. They are held every two years by the World Transplant Games Federation (WTGF). These games celebrate the success of organ transplantation and promote the importance of organ donation. Athletes from over 55 countries participate, showcasing the physical achievements and quality of life possible after transplant.

Key aspects of the World Transplant Games

Celebration of life

The games highlight the positive impact of organ donation and transplantation, demonstrating the ability of recipients to live full and active lives.

Multi-sport event

A variety of summer and winter sports are offered, including track and field, swimming, cycling, and more.

Inclusivity

The games welcome transplant recipients, living donors, and donor families to participate in various events, fostering a sense of community and shared experience.

Global reach

The event attracts thousands of participants from around the world, promoting international friendship and understanding.

Awareness raising

The games serve as a platform to raise public awareness about organ donation and the importance of joining the donor registry.

Health and fitness

The WTGF also promotes physical activity and healthy lifestyles among transplant recipients, emphasising the positive impact of exercise and fitness on their well-being.