The Ministry of Health and Prevention in the United Arab Emirates has reported a noteworthy increase in registrations for its national organ donation and transplantation program, 'Hayat,' with 32,704 individuals now signed up to donate.

The current figures indicate that 331 individuals have officially become organ donors, while the total number of transplanted organs in the UAE has reached 1,216.

By the start of 2024, the number of patients who have undergone organ transplantation within the country is projected to rise to 1,167, highlighting significant progress in the realm of organ donation and transplantation.

In a series of Ramadan gatherings organized by the Ministry across Sharjah, Ajman, Umm Al-Quwain, Ras Al Khaimah, and Fujairah, health officials engaged with community members to underscore the importance of organ donation.

These efforts aim to foster community awareness about the critical role of donations in providing hope for recovery and life to patients in need.

This initiative aligns with the ministry's broader goals to enhance community involvement in national efforts to improve quality of life and support public health, as set forth in the 'We Are the UAE 2031' vision for establishing a comprehensive healthcare system that adheres to international standards.

Discussions during these events centered on the 'Hayat' program’s mission to promote a culture of organ donation both during life and post-mortem, while also focusing on innovative solutions to improve the success rates of transplantation and the outcomes for recipients.

Participants were educated on how to register for the program, as well as the legislative and regulatory conditions surrounding organ donation.

Dr. Amin Al Amiri, Assistant Undersecretary for Health Regulation, emphasized that these Ramadan councils are part of the ministry's sustained efforts to raise public awareness of the impact organ donation can have on others' lives.

These initiatives also resonate with societal aspirations toward enhancing human solidarity and compassion, particularly during the month of Ramadan.

He noted that the 'Hayat' program is a cornerstone of the UAE's healthcare excellence and reflects the nation's leading achievements in health services that are undergoing positive transformation across various levels.

The Cabinet's recent approval of the executive regulation for organ and tissue donation and transplantation indicates the government's commitment to improving community health and providing advanced therapeutic solutions that meet patient needs according to strict regulatory standards.

The UAE continues to reinforce its integrated and sustainable healthcare framework, aligned with the wise leadership's vision for developing policies and regulations that elevate quality of life.

Dr. Ali Al Obaidli, chairman of the National Committee for Organ Donation and Transplantation, described the 'Hayat' program as one of the fastest-growing organ donation initiatives worldwide.

The program's success is attributed to comprehensive campaigns aimed at raising community awareness about its values and goals, supplemented by periodic meetings with all segments of society across the Emirates which highlight the benefits of the program and share testimonials from patients who have regained hope after successful transplants.

The enhancements in the nation's healthcare infrastructure further contribute to this growth.

Mohammed Abdullah Al Zarouni, director of the Ministry's representative office in Sharjah, referred to 'Hayat' as a noble humanitarian initiative, noting the positive community response with numerous individuals voluntarily registering as donors, recognizing the significant impact of giving and its role in saving lives.

Hamad Tariq Al Shamsi, director of the Ministry's office in Ajman, stated that efforts are being made to support the 'Hayat' program through awareness campaigns and partnerships with various community groups, emphasizing the importance of Ramadan councils as interactive platforms for conveying health messages.

Ali bin Garsh Al Ghafli, director of the Ministry's representative office in Umm Al-Quwain, highlighted that the 'Hayat' program is a humanitarian and national initiative that enhances the culture of organ donation to save lives and reflects the leadership's support for the program, reflecting the country's commitment to developing a comprehensive health sector and raising community awareness about the importance of donation as a noble message.

Mohammed Abdullah Al Shahi, director of the Ministry's representative office in Ras Al Khaimah, reported that initiatives promoting the 'Hayat' program have led to achieving high registration figures, with the office attaining top rankings in registration numbers during several months.

Dr. Mohammed Abdullah, director of the Ministry's representative office in Fujairah, affirmed the commitment to build collaborations among all governmental and private sectors to enhance awareness of the 'Hayat' program and elevate the health sector's standing, thereby improving its competitiveness, flexibility, and effectiveness in line with the nation's priorities.