An Indian-origin doctor who was recently honored by the United Arab Emirates visiting foreign minister for her five contributions to health care said her hospital group aims to strengthen the Indo-UAE relations with skill development of medical tourism initiatives and professionals.
According to an official of the hospital group, The 80-year-old Zulekha Daud is the “first Indian woman doctor,” who had moved to the United Arab Emirates in the 60s and started her practice from scratch in Sharjah.
She was felicitated by UAE Foreign Minister Sheikh Abdullah Bin Zayed Al Nahyan at a private function in Delhi on Monday, the official added.
After years of dedicated service, Zulekha Hospital was established in Sharjah in 1992 through her efforts. With a 30-bed hospital and with primary facilities for gynecology, obstetrics, surgery, medication, and pediatrics it was all started.
According to the statement, Providing specialized treatments in over 30 disciplines, the Zulekha Healthcare Group includes two multidisciplinary hospitals in Dubai and Sharjah, likewise three UAE medical centers and three pharmacies, adding it has as well opened a multidisciplinary hospital in India too.
“We hope to achieve more synchronization and strengthen Indo-UAE relations with skill development of medical professionals and medical tourism initiatives,” Daud was quoted as saying in the statement.
The recognition accorded to her coincides with the ‘Year of Zayed’ Initiative during which UAE is commemorating the indelible legacy of its founding father.
A letter of thanks was presented by Abdullah and appreciation for her valuable contributions since five decades to the healthcare sector in the UAE, and for her tireless endeavors to advance welfare citizens of UAE and residents, the group said in a statement.
Daud said the recognition is an absolute honor and will “inspire me to do more for the nation”.
The UAE foreign minister is paying a visit to India from June 24-30.
Zulekha Hospital has received broad acknowledgment for its sincerity and loyalty towards quality care and sustainable business practices, underlining a dedication to rendering high-quality healthcare to patients and society at large. Some of the awards include Dubai Quality Appreciation Award, Dubai Quality Award etc.
By Sowmya Sangam
