In a landmark move that reinforces Abu Dhabi’s position as a global destination for specialised healthcare, the Department of Health – Abu Dhabi (DoH) has partnered with Bascom Palmer Eye Institute to establish the renowned institute’s first international facility in the UAE capital.

Recognised 24 times as the No. 1 eye hospital in the U.S. by U.S. News & World Report, Bascom Palmer Eye Institute brings decades of ophthalmic expertise, pioneering research, and medical education to the region. The new facility, scheduled to open in November 2025, is a collaboration between Bascom Palmer Eye Institute and August Medical, part of SOZA Group.

Located in Mohamed Bin Zayed City, the 70,000-square-foot ambulatory care centre will feature advanced diagnostic and surgical technologies, including 31 exam rooms, three operating theatres, and dedicated suites for laser, refractive, and ocular surface disease treatments. It will also include an ENT and Sleep Centre, professional training spaces, and patient-focused amenities designed for comfort and accessibility.

Her Excellency Dr. Noura Al Ghaithi, Undersecretary of DoH, highlighted that the collaboration “marks a significant step in Abu Dhabi’s journey to becoming a premier destination for world-leading healthcare,” adding that the emirate’s innovation-driven ecosystem “sets new standards for care delivery worldwide.”

Dr. Abdul Rahim Jaffar, Board Member of Bascom Palmer Eye Institute – Abu Dhabi, noted that the institute’s expansion “reflects the UAE leadership’s vision for world-class healthcare infrastructure” and will provide “the full spectrum of ophthalmic services—from retinal and corneal diseases to ocular oncology and paediatric ophthalmology.”

Dr. Dipen J. Parekh, CEO of UHealth and EVP for Health Affairs at the University of Miami, described the partnership as “a remarkable milestone that extends Bascom Palmer’s excellence across continents,” bringing world-class care and physician training opportunities to Abu Dhabi.

This milestone aligns with Abu Dhabi’s healthcare vision—to create a globally connected ecosystem that blends international best practices, cutting-edge technology, and patient-centered innovation. Through such partnerships, the emirate continues to attract world-leading medical institutions and strengthen its position as a trusted hub for specialised, high-quality care.