The United Arab Emirates continues its unwavering support for the healthcare sector in Gaza under the humanitarian initiative “Operation Al-Fariss Al-Shahim 3”. This initiative focuses on providing essential medical care for patients and the injured through hospitals, medical centres, and mobile clinics. Additionally, the UAE is supplying hospitals in the region with medicines, medical equipment, and supplies while implementing medical evacuation and rehabilitation programmes.
Impact of the UAE’s Medical Response
Since the launch of “Operation Al-Fariss Al-Shahim 3” on November 5, 2023, the UAE’s field hospital in Rafah has treated more than 54,000 patients and injured individuals. This response has been critical in supporting the healthcare system in Gaza, especially as local hospitals face severe damage and increasing healthcare needs.
Medical Aid and Support
The UAE has also coordinated the delivery of medical aid convoys through the Rafah crossing, amounting to 1,903 tonnes of medicines, medical devices, and supplies. This initiative, carried out in collaboration with the World Health Organization, aims to bolster the capacity of hospitals in Gaza to continue providing essential services.
Establishment of New Medical Facilities
With approximately 30 hospitals rendered inoperable, the UAE established two medical centres in both southern and northern Gaza, which collectively serve around 4,000 patients each month. Furthermore, mobile clinics have been deployed to reach displaced individuals in tents and address their health needs directly.
Supporting Patients Beyond Borders
In addition to its efforts in Gaza, the UAE’s floating hospital in Al-Arish, Egypt, has provided treatment for over 35,000 Palestinian patients. As part of “Operation Al-Fariss Al-Shahim 3,” approximately 3,000 patients have been evacuated to receive medical treatment in UAE hospitals, thereby alleviating pressure on local healthcare facilities.
Preventive Healthcare Initiatives
In tackling the risk of polio, the UAE has supplied over 600,000 vaccine doses and has enhanced emergency services by introducing 27 fully-equipped ambulances into Gaza.
Vision for Rehabilitation and Wellness
The health initiatives have also involved a project to provide 10,000 pairs of reading glasses to those in need, along with plans to manufacture prosthetic limbs for 203 amputees, helping them regain mobility and resume their daily lives.
These continuous efforts embody the UAE’s commitment to medical support for the Palestinian people, integrating emergency response, treatment, prevention, and rehabilitation pathways.