Abu Dhabi has initiated an innovative healthcare logistics venture with the launch of DOCKTOUR, a project that transforms ‘Made in UAE’ shipping containers into fully equipped mobile hospitals.

This initiative, unveiled at the Make it in the Emirates forum, is a collaboration between AD Ports Group and Burjeel Holdings, both of which are committed to enhancing healthcare access in Africa.

DOCKTOUR aims to provide cost-effective and scalable healthcare solutions in regions experiencing inadequate medical infrastructure.

The project will support the establishment of modular hospitals and clinics, as well as full-service medical facilities, including both temporary field hospitals and permanent healthcare institutions.

The approach centers on logistics and operational efficiency, streamlining supply chains for the rapid deployment of modular medical units.

This integrated framework includes logistics management, modular health infrastructure, clinical training programs, and coordinated emergency response systems.

The launch event featured prominent figures such as Dr. Sultan Ahmed Al Jaber, UAE Minister of Industry and Advanced Technology; Captain Mohamed Juma Al Shamisi, Managing Director and Group CEO of AD Ports Group; and Dr. Shamsheer Vayalil, Founder and Chairman of Burjeel Holdings.

AD Ports Group has a broad portfolio that encompasses port terminals, economic zones, and logistics assets across several African nations, including Egypt, Angola, and Tanzania.

Burjeel Holdings has previously executed healthcare initiatives in countries such as South Sudan, Ethiopia, and Somalia, further emphasizing their dedication to improving health systems across the continent.

Captain Al Shamisi remarked on the initiative's potential, stating, “This is a practical, scalable solution to a growing need,” highlighting the commitment of both organizations to fostering resilient community healthcare services.

DOCKTOUR is set to complement Burjeel’s management subsidiary, Operonix, which oversees major healthcare projects throughout Africa.

The platform's capabilities are designed to enhance emergency response by ensuring the swift delivery of critical healthcare resources and local capacity-building through clinical training.

Dr. Shamsheer Vayalil described the program as a new model of impact, integrating advanced clinical systems with logistical support to meet urgent healthcare needs.

Plans are in progress to establish medical offices within the AD Ports Group’s African operational network to provide medical logistics and support medical tourism.

Collaboration is a key element of DOCKTOUR, which will engage with national health ministries, international non-governmental organizations, and UAE-led humanitarian efforts to ensure effective emergency logistics, particularly during health crises and outbreaks.

The initiative will support long-term health initiatives focused on maternal and child health, vaccination efforts, disease surveillance, and health education outreach.