Strong demand for talent, say Emirati doctors in private sector jobs

Dubai: Emirati doctors, trained in leading international medical centres, are actively transforming the healthcare sector in the country. Marking Emirati Doctor’s Day, top experts from the private and public sectors shared how they are working hard to ensure community health and well-being.

Dr Mohamed Muath Adi, a French-trained orthopaedic surgeon, noted that most Emirati doctors are well-trained and have extensive international experience.

“Talented Emirati doctors have significantly increased the availability of specialised medical care within the UAE across various subspecialties, including complex care.”

Dr Adi completed his orthopaedic residency programme and fellowship programme from France. Upon returning to the UAE, he worked in several major public hospitals, including Sheikh Khalifa Medical City (SKMC), Zayed Military Hospital and Sheikh Shakhbout Medical City (SSMC), where he served as the head of the orthopaedic surgery department before moving to Burjeel Medical City in 2024.

“In the past, the UAE’s private healthcare sector was often viewed as uncertain for Emirati doctors, with most preferring to work in government hospitals. However, today, the private sector has grown significantly and is very advanced. There is now a strong demand for talented Emirati doctors, presenting a huge potential for them in the private sector,” said Dr Adi, who is the head of department and consultant orthopaedic surgeon, and head of Burjeel Orthopaedic Institute.

“I believe we should work towards enhancing and improving both the public and private healthcare sectors for the benefit of people across the UAE.”

Meanwhile, Dr Ali Al Jaberi, staff physician, general surgery, Digestive Disease Institute at Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi (CCAD), said that medical field is a lifelong commitment to healing, learning, and advancing care.

“As the UAE’s healthcare landscape evolves rapidly, I am honoured to be part of this transformation.”

Prior to joining CCAD, Dr Al Jaberi completed his medical education and surgical training in the US. He was awarded a full scholarship for his education by merit, was named resident of the year, and received the Excellence in Teaching awarded by Tufts Medicine.

Dr Al Jaberi underscored the importance of progress in healthcare, blending innovation and compassion.

“Every breakthrough we achieve and every patient we help brings us closer to a future where innovation and compassion go hand in hand. With this progress comes the responsibility of honouring our nation’s legacy in healthcare while shaping its future.”

Dr Al Jaberi reflected with gratitude, pride, and a forward-thinking mindset about the future of healthcare in the UAE.

“On Emirati Doctor’s Day, I celebrate the dedication of my peers who are shaping a healthier tomorrow, and I take pride in contributing to this journey – empowering the next generation of Emirati doctors to push boundaries and redefine excellence.”

Dr Rashed Obaid Alsuwaidi, Director-General of the Abu Dhabi Public Health Centre, highlighted the significant role of Emirati doctors in managing public health threats.

“The global rise in cases of measles, influenza, and tuberculosis underscores the critical importance of resilient health systems. Emirati doctors are at the forefront of ensuring individual and community health, demonstrating exceptional skill in preventing, responding to, and recovering from public health emergencies. Their expertise has been instrumental in ensuring the UAE’s capacity to manage health threats,” Dr Alsuwaidi underlined.