A cutting-edge cancer facility has been inaugurated in Abu Dhabi to offer advanced treatment options to patients. The Burjeel Cancer Institute (BCI) in Mohammed bin Zayed City boasts state-of-the-art amenities spread over four levels, including private chemotherapy rooms, specialized clinics, a dedicated breast cancer unit, and patient-focused facilities.
Established by Burjeel Holdings, the new institute combines chemotherapy, immunotherapy, surgical oncology, stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS), and stereotactic body radiotherapy (SBRT). It provides innovative treatments such as targeted therapy, precision medicine, advanced surgical methods, radiation therapy, and AI-driven cancer diagnosis and management.
Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, the Minister of Tolerance and Coexistence, officially opened the institute within Burjeel Medical City and emphasized the UAE's commitment to delivering top-tier healthcare and medical services. He highlighted the importance of caring for cancer patients in the UAE, stating that facilities like the BCI demonstrate the country's dedication to comprehensive and innovative care, including prevention, early detection, and patient education.
BCI serves as the flagship of Burjeel's cancer care network, which includes facilities in Abu Dhabi, Al Ain, Al Dhafra, Sharjah, and Dubai. The network annually serves over 5,000 oncology patients, conducts more than 10,000 screenings, and performs over 10,000 radiotherapy sessions with the support of over 50 specialists.
Dr. Shamsheer Vayalil, the founder and chairman of Burjeel Holdings, believes the new institute will revolutionize cancer treatment and greatly enhance patient outcomes. The institute is led by renowned Emirati oncologist Prof. Humaid Al Shamsi, who emphasized the availability of free consultations and the integration of advanced diagnostic tools and cutting-edge treatments.
The institute features advanced diagnostic capabilities through OncoHelix-CoLab, enabling specialized tests locally and utilizing technologies like next-generation sequencing (NGS), droplet digital PCR, and multi-colour flow cytometry. It is also prepared to conduct clinical trials and translational research.
A medical education program will be established to advance oncology education, support research, and develop residency and fellowship programs in partnership with local and international institutions. The institute will engage the community through awareness campaigns, educational seminars, and cancer screening programs.
The launch event was attended by John Sunil, CEO of Burjeel Holdings, Omran Al Khoori, executive board member of Burjeel Holdings, Safeer Ahamed, group COO of Burjeel Holdings, Aysha Al Mahri, deputy CEO of Burjeel Medical City, and other key management and medical staff, as well as cancer survivors and their families.