Burjeel Holdings has officially launched the Genetics and Rare Disease Center, aiming to enhance healthcare access for patients with rare and genetic diseases in the MENA region. The center is strategically located within Burjeel Medical City (BMC), a leading quaternary care hospital. It provides comprehensive, integrated care and state-of-the-art services for individuals affected by these conditions, ensuring direct access to specialized medical and surgical subspecialties for effective management of complications.

According to ZAWYA, the launch ceremony was attended by notable figures, including H.E Mohammed Ahmed Al Yamahi, President of the Arab Parliament, and H.E. Elchin Bagirov, Ambassador of the Republic of Azerbaijan to the UAE. Other attendees included Mr. Omran Al Khoori, Member of the Board of Directors at Burjeel Holdings, and Mr. John Sunil, Group CEO of Burjeel Holdings.

Rare diseases, defined as conditions affecting fewer than 1 in 2000 individuals, impact 5-10% of the global population. Over 70% of the more than 10 000 rare diseases identified worldwide are genetic in nature. In the MENA region alone, over 40 million people are affected by rare diseases, leading to urgent healthcare challenges. These individuals often encounter hurdles such as limited knowledge, insufficient specialized care, restricted access to genetic testing, and the complex nature of these diseases.

Leading the center is Prof. Ayman El-Hattab, an award-winning clinical genetics expert. He emphasized that many rare diseases require genetic testing for accurate diagnosis, which can be inaccessible or unaffordable for patients. Additionally, he noted that these diseases frequently result in chronic disabilities that affect quality of life, necessitating psychosocial support and rehabilitative therapy. Prof. El-Hattab’s goal for the center is to provide comprehensive, multidisciplinary care covering all facets of clinical genetics and rare disease management.

The center operates three core units: the Clinical Care Unit, Innovative Trials Unit, and Social Integration and Education Unit. The Clinical Care Unit specializes in evidence-based diagnosis and management for both pediatric and adult patients across various clinics, including Cancer Genetics and Neurogenetics. The Innovative Trials Unit conducts observational cohort studies to better understand the epidemiology of rare diseases and connect patients with global clinical trial opportunities. The Social Integration and Education Unit focuses on raising awareness about rare and genetic diseases through seminars and conferences.

Prof. Khaled Musallam, Group Chief Research Officer of Burjeel Holdings, highlighted the importance of expanding clinical trials for disease-modifying therapies. He stated, “We want to make sure that patients in the region have early access to these innovative interventions, which have the potential to drastically change patients’ outcomes and quality of life.”

Mr. John Sunil, Group CEO of Burjeel Holdings, remarked on the significance of the center in treating rare and genetic diseases. He mentioned, “This center focuses on delivering top clinical care while advancing research and education to better equip patients and healthcare providers in managing these complex conditions.” With advanced facilities and a dedicated team, the Genetics and Rare Disease Center is set to transform the care landscape for affected individuals throughout the MENA region.