Sheikh Mohammed pledges Dh7 million to save girl’s life

Syrian girl Yaqeen Ebrahim is suffering from spinal muscular atrophy

Last updated: July 03, 2025 | 00:12

1 MIN READ

is Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai

WAM

Dubai: His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, has pledged to cover the full medical treatment of Syrian girl Yaqeen Ebrahim, who suffers from spinal muscular atrophy.

The announcement came after Yaqeen’s uncle posted a video on social media urgently appealing for help to save her life. In the video, he explained, “Yaqeen suffers from a rare genetic condition that requires immediate treatment costing over Dh7 million. This treatment is available in only a few countries, including Al Jalila Hospital in Dubai.”

Yaqeen’s father, Ebrahim Kanakar, confirmed that he was personally contacted by the office of Sheikh Mohammed, informing him that His Highness would bear the entire cost of his daughter’s treatment.

Khitam Al AmirChief News Editor

With over 30 years of journalistic experience spanning from Jordan to the UAE, Khitam has spent the past 22 years reporting on national and regional news from Dubai, with a strong focus on the UAE, GCC and broader Arab affairs. As Chief News Editor, she brings extensive expertise in delivering breaking and engaging news to readers. Beginning her tenure as a translator, she advanced through roles as Senior Translator and Chief Translator before transitioning to editorial positions, culminating in her current leadership role. Her responsibilities encompass monitoring breaking news across the UAE and the broader Arab region, ensuring timely and accurate dissemination to the public. Born into a family of journalists, Khitam's passion for news was ignited early in life. A defining moment in her youth occurred in September 1985 when she had the opportunity to converse with the late British Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher during her visit to a Palestinian refugee camp north of Amman. During this encounter, Khitam shared her family's experiences of displacement from their home in Palestine and their subsequent refuge in Jordan. This poignant interaction not only deepened her understanding of geopolitical issues but also solidified her commitment to pursuing a career in journalism, aiming to shed light on the stories of those affected by regional conflicts. Khitam’s commitment to accurate and timely reporting drives her to seek out news that interests readers, making her a trusted source for news on the UAE and the broader Gulf region.