UAE's Hayat Program Reaches Major Milestone With 1,000 Organ Donations

The Ministry of Health and Prevention (MoHAP) has announced that the National Program for Donation and Transplantation of Human Organs and Tissues (Hayat) has reached a milestone of 1,000 post-mortem organ donations since its inception in 2017. The achievement coincided with World Organ Donor Day on Aug. 13.

This achievement was made possible through the combined efforts of federal and local organizations, along with the support of the health and academic sectors, highlighting the UAE's leading role in organ transplantation, Khaleej Times reported. It reinforces the UAE's commitment to being a leader in regional and global excellence.

The feat also highlights the advancements in the UAE's health system and aligns with the country's leadership goals and the "We the UAE 2031" vision, which aims to elevate the country's global standing.

It is the result of continuous government efforts to promote organ donation and showcase the nation's strong capabilities. These include highly skilled medical professionals, advanced healthcare facilities, modern technology and strategic partnerships with top global institutions.

Dr. Ali Abdulkarim Al Obaidli, Chairman of the National Committee for Organ Transplantation, said that the Hayat program is a national initiative to enhance organ and tissue donation efforts in the UAE, following global standards.

Al Obaidli emphasized that the program focuses on helping patients with organ deficiencies, adding that organ donation not only gives new hope to patients and their families but also improves overall community health and individual quality of life.

He further noted that the program also plays a role in preventing diseases related to organ failure and encourages healthy living.

Dr. Maria Gomez, Director of the National Centre for Regulating Donation and Transplantation of Human Organs and Tissues at MoHAP, highlighted that the "Hayat" program is a joint effort by various government agencies to improve organ donation and transplantation.

She urged all adults, whether citizens or residents, to sign up to donate their organs, as this would help prevent diseases that lead to organ failure and give hope to those waiting for a transplant. Gomez also encouraged people to read and learn from the inspiring stories of donor families and transplant recipients.

The Hayat program has 26,825 people registered to donate their organs, and more than 255 of these individuals have become donors. One donor can potentially save up to eight lives.