Sharjah, May 10th, 2025: In a significant stride for cancer care in the UAE, Sheikh Salem bin Abdulrahman Al Qasimi, Chairman of the Ruler’s Office, officially inaugurated the Burjeel Oncology Institute at Burjeel Specialty Hospital in Sharjah on Saturday. The opening signals a major advancement in the country’s mission to provide world-class oncology services, especially in the Northern Emirates.
The ceremony began with the UAE national anthem and a warm welcome by medical professionals, patients, and dignitaries. In his opening remarks, Professor Humaid Al Shamsi, CEO of the Burjeel Oncology Institute and President of the Emirates Oncology Society, extended his appreciation to Sheikh Salem for his presence and support.
He noted, “This launch is a major milestone in advancing cancer care. The institute is committed to delivering world-class medical services and supporting national treatment objectives.”
A Vision for Integrated, Holistic Care
Professor Al Shamsi also outlined the institute’s strategic vision: to provide comprehensive, compassionate care through a multidisciplinary team of specialists. The facility is designed not only to treat but to educate, prevent, and raise awareness of cancer through community outreach and preventive programmes.
Philippe Chappuis, Executive Director of Operations at the institute, echoed this commitment during his address. “We are dedicated to supporting patients through every stage of their journey until full recovery,” he said, emphasising the institute’s patient-centric mission.
A Multifaceted Approach to Oncology
Beyond clinical treatment, the institute stands out for its focus on education and prevention. Dr. Mahdi Afrit, an oncology specialist, highlighted the facility’s proactive role in community health: from early detection to clinical screenings and public education.
The audience was visibly moved by the heartfelt testimony of a cancer survivor, who shared her personal journey of diagnosis, treatment, and recovery at Burjeel Specialty Hospital. Her story served as a powerful reminder of the human impact behind the institute’s mission.
A Glimpse into World-Class Infrastructure
A multimedia presentation followed, showcasing the institute’s infrastructure, technologies, and the dedication of its healthcare teams. It provided insight into patient-centric features such as tailored nutritional care, privacy-focused chemotherapy suites, and the coordination of services under one roof.
In recognition of his support, Sheikh Salem was presented with a commemorative gift—a healthcare reference book authored by Professor Al Shamsi.
Touring the Future of Cancer Care
Following a traditional ribbon-cutting ceremony, Sheikh Salem toured the new facilities, accompanied by executives and medical staff. The Burjeel Oncology Institute in Sharjah is equipped with advanced technologies including precision diagnostics, immunotherapy, chemotherapy, and surgical oncology services. The tour offered a comprehensive view of the patient journey, from initial consultation and diagnostic workups to treatment initiation and beyond.
A New Era for Sharjah and the Northern Emirates
As the first oncology centre of its kind in Sharjah, the institute represents a transformative addition to the UAE’s healthcare landscape. With its state-of-the-art design and multidisciplinary approach, the institute aims to set a new benchmark for integrated cancer care in the region.
The opening of the Burjeel Oncology Institute reflects the UAE’s unwavering commitment to expanding access to specialised medical care and enhancing outcomes for patients battling cancer.
