Post by : Badri Ariffin

Dubai has celebrated a significant achievement in shaping its healthcare leadership with the graduation of the first cohort from the Systems Leadership Program at the Dubai Health Leadership Academy, hosted at the Museum of the Future.

The event was graced by His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman of the Dubai Health Board, alongside His Highness Sheikh Mansoor bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, underscoring a firm commitment to cultivating adept leaders for a resilient health system.

In partnership with Saïd Business School at the University of Oxford, 40 senior professionals completed an intensive 14-month program focusing on enhancing strategic thinking and collaboration in healthcare.

Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed congratulated the graduates, reflecting Dubai’s vision to empower leaders capable of steering change and capitalizing on growth opportunities.

“Under our leadership’s vision, Dubai is progressing in healthcare by nurturing leaders who convert rapid changes into substantial advancements,” he stated. “These graduates are poised to influence Dubai's health landscape and elevate the quality of care.”

Sheikh Mansoor added that this graduation marks a crucial step in establishing Dubai Health's sustainable, knowledge-driven healthcare framework.

“We take pride in the first cohort’s graduation from the Systems Leadership Program in collaboration with Oxford. Developing forward-thinking leaders is vital to our journey of establishing an innovative, excellence-driven health system,” he noted.

The ceremony also welcomed numerous senior officials, such as Her Excellency Dr. Raja Easa Al Gurg, Member of the Dubai Health Board, and His Excellency Dr. Alawi Alsheikh-Ali, Director General of Dubai Health Authority, among others, emphasizing the collaborative effort behind the program.

Dr. Alawi Alsheikh-Ali referred to the initiative as a pivotal factor in the ongoing transformation of Dubai’s healthcare system.

“The Systems Leadership Program equips leaders to handle complexities, ensuring the principles of Dubai’s health sector are upheld while fostering a more resilient, people-centered system,” he said.

Dr. Amer Sharif noted the program’s design reflects the intricacies and compassion needed in healthcare leadership.

“We established the Dubai Health Leadership Academy to prepare leaders who can thrive in an ambitious system like ours. Our graduates are now set to carry this mission forward,” he expressed, thanking Sheikh Ahmed and Sheikh Mansoor for their steadfast support.

He also acknowledged the valuable contributions of the program's partners—Emirates, Dubai Airports, and the Mohammed Bin Rashid Space Centre—for enhancing the educational framework.

Dr. Eleanor Murray, Academic Director at Saïd Business School, reflected on the profound journey experienced by this cohort.

“The collaboration with top-notch faculty and experts fostered insightful discussions and deep reflections on leadership within complex health systems. The joint certificate symbolizes not just academic success but a significant and transformative journey,” she shared.

Dr. Mark O’Brien, Program Director, confirmed that this graduation is a landmark moment in the ongoing partnership between Dubai Health and Oxford.

“The achievements of this cohort will bolster Dubai’s continuous pursuit of excellence and innovation in healthcare for years ahead,” he stated.

Initiated in September 2024, the Dubai Health Leadership Academy and the Systems Leadership Program were developed in conjunction with global experts and aligned with Dubai Health’s strategic objectives. Throughout 14 months divided into four modules, participants applied their insights directly within the healthcare system, supported by personalized executive coaching from the Saïd Business School.

The graduation of this inaugural cohort paves the way for a new generation of leaders critical in defining the future of healthcare in Dubai.

#Global News #Dubai