1,090 transplants and counting: Abu Dhabi's 'Hayat' program transforms lives

Abu Dhabi has reinforced its position as a leading regional and global hub for medical excellence, announcing on the occasion of World Organ Donation Day remarkable progress in its journey toward leadership in organ transplantation and a transformative impact on patients’ quality of life.

Since the launch of the National Program for Organ and Human Tissue Donation and Transplantation 'Hayat' in 2017, Abu Dhabi has achieved a record 1,090 successful transplant operations, including 290 in 2024 alone. These procedures included 7 heart transplants, 142 kidney transplants, 117 liver transplants, 22 lung transplants, and 2 pancreas transplants. The Emirate has performed numerous complex surgeries, notably multi-organ transplants, while also adopting robotic surgery technologies that have significantly improved precision, treatment outcomes, and recovery times. These achievements were made possible through the efforts of four leading transplant centers across four major healthcare facilities in Abu Dhabi.

Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi leads with 241 transplants

Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi has played a pivotal role in advancing organ transplantation in the UAE, becoming the first multi-organ transplant center since its establishment. In 2024, the hospital performed 241 multi-organ transplants, including the UAE’s first combined heart-and-lung transplant. In 2023, it achieved a regional first with a combined lung-and-liver transplant, and carried out the UAE’s first triple kidney exchange.

Sheikh Khalifa Medical City, part of the PureHealth Group, the largest healthcare group in the Middle East, performed more than 114 kidney transplants in 2024 and continues to expand its liver transplant program for both adults and children, reflecting its commitment to world-class care and optimal outcomes.

Sheikh Shakhbout Medical City: Excellence in research

Sheikh Shakhbout Medical City, also part of PureHealth, distinguished itself in medical research and education, presenting 10 research papers at international conferences and winning the 'Best Abstract' award at the 2023 International Society for Organ Donation conference in Las Vegas, USA. The hospital recorded a medical milestone by performing the UAE’s first organ donation from a COVID-19-positive donor. In 2022, it ranked second nationwide in the number of organ donors.

Burjeel Medical City: Pioneering multi-organ transplants

Burjeel Medical City has emerged as a leader in multi-organ transplantation, achieving several firsts, including the UAE’s first living-donor liver transplant for a child, the first ABO-incompatible kidney transplant, and the youngest liver transplant in the country for a five-month-old infant.

Dr. Noura Al Ghaithi, Undersecretary of the Department of Health – Abu Dhabi, affirmed that these accomplishments reflect the Emirate’s unwavering commitment to world-class healthcare. She emphasised that advanced infrastructure, exceptional medical talent, and a culture of innovation have positioned Abu Dhabi as a regional leader in organ transplantation, with an influence extending far beyond the region. She called on all community members to register as organ donors under the 'Hayat' program, stressing that one person’s decision can save multiple lives, offer hope to patients, and contribute to a healthier future for all.

The National Program for Organ and Human Tissue Donation and Transplantation 'Hayat'

The 'Hayat' program is a national framework aimed at promoting organ and human tissue donation and transplantation in line with the highest global standards and practices in the UAE and the region. It works in coordination with local and international strategic partners to save lives, enhance public health, and improve quality of life.

Its mission is to mobilise efforts to grant the gift of life, encourage community participation through organ donation, facilitate transplantation procedures, and inspire individuals to adopt healthy lifestyles to prevent organ failure. The UAE authorises organ and human tissue donation and transplantation under Federal Decree-Law No. (5) of 2016.

Abu Dhabi community campaign to support 'Hayat'

The Department of Health – Abu Dhabi has launched a community-wide campaign to support the 'Hayat' program, encouraging all residents to register as organ and tissue donors and contribute to improving the quality of life for patients suffering from organ failure in the UAE and the wider region.