UAE Reinforces Commitment to Regional Health Security and Global Polio Eradication

The United Arab Emirates has reaffirmed its dedication to accelerating efforts to eradicate polio whilst advancing sustainable health security and building resilient healthcare systems across the region and beyond.

The United Arab Emirates has renewed its unwavering commitment to advancing regional and global endeavours aimed at eliminating polio, strengthening sustainable health security and establishing healthcare systems fortified by proactive prevention and future preparedness. This significant reaffirmation came during the nation’s address to the 73rd session of the WHO Regional Committee for the Eastern Mediterranean, held in Cairo.

Dr. Hussain Abdul Rahman Al Rand, Assistant Undersecretary for the Public Health Sector at the Ministry of Health and Prevention, delivered a comprehensive address highlighting the UAE’s exceptional contributions to regional and global health priorities. The nation underscored the paramount importance of cultivating effective partnerships with the World Health Organization and Member States, emphasising the translation of shared health objectives into measurable outcomes that enhance quality of life, expand universal health coverage and strengthen communities’ resilience.

Among the notable achievements documented in the Regional Director’s Annual Report, the UAE recorded the highest universal health coverage service index in the Eastern Mediterranean Region. Further accomplishments include the elimination of industrially produced trans fats from locally manufactured processed foods, the integration of patient safety practices throughout public and private healthcare sectors, the establishment of an independent regulatory authority governing medicines and medical products, and the development of an integrated health surveillance system that expedites decision-making capabilities.

The UAE’s delegation emphasised the critical role of the WHO Hub for Global Health Emergencies Logistics situated in Dubai, which delivered essential supplies to 74 countries during the reporting period. The nation has also provided substantial support through air cargo flights transporting medical supplies to humanitarian operations.

A cornerstone of the UAE’s commitment involves the Mohamed bin Zayed Foundation for Humanity’s contribution of US$140 million towards polio eradication, forming part of collective international pledges totalling US$1.9 billion. Since 2011, the UAE’s presidential leadership has committed US$525 million to this critical initiative, facilitating the delivery of more than 850 million vaccine doses in Pakistan alone. In Afghanistan, the UAE leads the Polio Legacy Challenge alongside regional and international partners, advancing primary healthcare, immunisation and health infrastructure development.

The National Health Workforce Strategy 2026–2030, now entering its implementation phase, demonstrates the UAE’s commitment to enhancing healthcare workforce readiness and developing comprehensive primary healthcare capabilities. The development of a national health insurance system further reinforces the nation’s commitment to sustainable health financing and improved service delivery.

Source: WAM