DHA Grants Initial Approval to Yas Healthcare for Pioneering Project in Partnership with National Cancer Centre Singapore
In a landmark development for regional oncology care, the Dubai Health Authority (DHA) has granted initial approval to Yas Healthcare — a subsidiary of Das Holding — to establish the UAE’s first proton therapy centre in Dubai. Slated for completion by the end of 2028, this advanced facility promises to bring cutting-edge cancer treatment closer to home for patients across the UAE and the wider region.
The project will break ground in early 2026 and marks a strategic collaboration with the National Cancer Centre Singapore (NCCS), one of Asia’s leading institutions in oncology. NCCS will lend its clinical and technical expertise throughout the project lifecycle, ensuring that the facility aligns with global standards of excellence.
A Game-Changer for Cancer Care in the UAE
Proton therapy is a highly precise form of radiation treatment known for its ability to target tumours with minimal impact on surrounding healthy tissue. It is especially beneficial for paediatric cancers and for tumours situated near critical organs — areas where traditional radiation poses higher risks.
Dr. Alawi Alsheikh-Ali, Director General of the DHA, highlighted the project’s strategic importance:
“This centre reflects Dubai’s commitment to world-class, patient-centred care and supports our ambition to be among the top 10 cities globally for healthy life expectancy. It aligns with the National Strategy for Wellbeing 2031, the Dubai Social Agenda 33, and the Dubai Economic Agenda D33.”
Raising the Bar through International Collaboration
The Yas Proton Therapy Centre will be developed with consultancy support from NCCS, home to Southeast Asia’s largest proton beam therapy unit. Dr. Michael Wang, Chair of the Division of Radiation Oncology at NCCS, remarked:
“We are proud to partner with Yas Healthcare in introducing this transformative technology to the GCC, enhancing access and redefining standards in cancer treatment.”
Dr. Mohamad Zaki, Medical Director and General Manager at Yas Healthcare, emphasized the increasing need for such a centre:
“With a rise in cancer diagnoses, particularly among younger populations, proton therapy offers a safer, less toxic treatment alternative. Our goal is to make this care more accessible and affordable, reducing the need for patients to seek treatment abroad.”
Boosting Dubai’s Vision for Medical Tourism and Innovation
This initiative also supports Dubai’s ambitions to strengthen its status as a premier destination for healthcare innovation and medical tourism, targeting over 500,000 international patients annually by 2025. Once operational, the Yas Proton Therapy Centre will be a regional hub for advanced oncology care, significantly expanding treatment options available within the UAE.
Construction updates and patient enrollment details will be shared through Yas Healthcare’s official channels as the project progresses.
