Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi Marks Tenth Operation Smile Surgical Programme
The leading healthcare institution will host its milestone tenth cleft surgical initiative this October, continuing a partnership that has transformed the lives of hundreds of patients since 2017.
Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi will host its tenth Operation Smile UAE cleft surgical programme from 10th to 12th October, marking a significant milestone in a partnership that commenced in 2017. This three-day initiative represents the charity’s 19th cleft surgical programme overall, coinciding with Operation Smile UAE’s 15th anniversary since its establishment in 2011.
The hospital has distinguished itself as Operation Smile UAE’s pioneering partner institution. Through nine previous programmes, the collaboration has screened over 400 patients and provided cleft surgery to 140 individuals. Beyond surgical intervention, these programmes have encompassed comprehensive patient care, including dental treatment, nutritional guidance, speech and language therapy, and psychosocial support, with referrals to specialist services where appropriate.
Medical volunteers participating in the forthcoming programme, drawn from healthcare facilities across the UAE, will operate under temporary medical licences authorised by the Department of Health – Abu Dhabi.
Dr. Mahdi Shkoukani, Division Chair of Otolaryngology at Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi, reflected on the partnership’s significance: “Reaching our 10th surgical programme with Operation Smile UAE reflects nearly a decade of shared commitment to patients with cleft conditions. By bringing together multidisciplinary expertise and dedicated medical volunteers, we can provide comprehensive care that supports not only patients, but their families too. This milestone represents the extension of compassionate, patient-first care beyond the walls of our hospital.”
Morag Cromey-Hawke, Executive Director of Operation Smile UAE, expressed gratitude for the institution’s sustained involvement: “We are so grateful for the amazing support we have received from Cleveland Clinic since 2017. Our patients have experienced a level of care which would otherwise not have been available to them.”
Since its inception, Operation Smile UAE has facilitated surgery for more than 4,000 patients throughout the UAE and internationally. The organisation’s impact has been championed by its patron, H.H. Sheikha Aljazia bint Saif Al Nahyan, wife of H.H. Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs. The programme’s success reflects the dedication of donors, supporters and medical volunteers whose commitment sustains each initiative.
The October programme aligns with the UAE’s Year of Family 2026, emphasising the theme “Growing in Unity.” Operation Smile UAE and Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi remain committed to supporting patients with cleft conditions and their families. Families residing in the UAE seeking information about available programmes may contact Operation Smile UAE’s patient coordinator at patients@operationsmileuae.ae or via WhatsApp on +971 50 595 5208.
Source: WAM