Interview: Dr Thumbay Moideen
To what extent are digitalisation and innovation transforming health care services in Ajman?
DR. THUMBAY MOIDEEN: Digitalisation is revolutionising health care by redefining and transforming both the delivery of services and the training of health care professionals in Ajman. Technologies like electronic health records, diagnostics driven by artificial intelligence (AI) and virtual learning are transforming operations in the private sector by driving efficiency, improving patient care and enhancing health care outcomes. Some higher education institutions are integrating 3D digital learning and AI-powered virtual patient simulations into their curricula. These tools not only make medical education more practical and accessible, but also prepare future health care professionals to navigate an increasingly complex and technology-driven industry.
Additionally, the focus on precision medicine and translational research are setting new benchmarks in the field of research. Here, collaboration between Ajman-based organisations and global academic and health care institutions is crucial to developing transformative solutions. Furthermore, significant financial initiatives are playing a critical role in attracting top-tier researchers to the region. These efforts foster a culture of innovation, enabling Ajman to emerge as a regional leader in advanced medical research and position itself on the global health care map.
In what ways has strengthening digital literacy and cultivating an adaptable workforce enabled health care technologies to be embraced in the emirate?
MOIDEEN: To unlock the full potential of advancements in technology, robust infrastructure development and widespread training programmes for health care professionals are essential. Furthermore, fostering a culture of continuous learning will ensure that health care professionals remain at the forefront of innovation. Through the strategic convergence of digitalisation, education and research, Ajman is positioning itself as a centre of excellence in health care. By aligning investment with global trends and embracing smart technologies, the GCC region is well equipped to set new benchmarks for integrated and technologically advanced health care systems.
What investment opportunities will emerge in Ajman’s health care sector and how will public-private partnerships (PPPs) support this growth?
MOIDEEN: The emirate’s health care sector is experiencing a dynamic transformation, presenting significant opportunities for investment across various areas. The rising demand for specialised medical services – coupled with workforce shortages and the need for advanced diagnostic and therapeutic facilities – highlights the sector’s potential for strategic investment. Promising areas include long-term care facilities, enhanced medical tourism infrastructure, and the establishment of specialised centres for oncology and cosmetology. The private sector is spearheading these efforts by introducing oncology centres equipped with advanced cancer treatment technologies, as well as cosmetology centres to meet the growing demand for aesthetics services. Beyond local developments, regional health care providers are exploring international franchising opportunities in high-growth markets such as Saudi Arabia and Egypt, capitalising on their expertise to address global health care challenges.
PPPs play a crucial role in driving growth and improving health care quality and accessibility. Collaborative models between institutions in the emirate demonstrate the potential of integrating education, research and health care delivery. These partnerships bridge the gap between academic curricula and real-world health care demands, addressing workforce shortages by producing highly skilled professionals. Lastly, PPPs create opportunities for innovation, enabling joint ventures in telemedicine, collaborative research initiatives and shared investment for infrastructure development.
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