PureHealth has announced the graduation of 146 UAE Nationals including the third cohort of its Emirati Development Center (EDC) Leaders Programme. As one of the most comprehensive and inclusive Emirati development platforms in the UAE, EDC is shaping the next generation of local talent to lead the transformation of the healthcare sector with innovation and excellence.
The graduation ceremony was attended by Her Excellency Dr. Noura Al Ghaithi, Undersecretary of the Department of Health – Abu Dhabi (DoH); Shaista Asif, Group Chief Executive Officer of PureHealth; Prof. Deborah McNamara, President of the Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland; and Rashed Al Qubaisi, Group Chief Operating Officer of PureHealth, who addressed the graduating cohort with an inspiring opening speech, recognising their dedication and commitment.
The ceremony marked a significant milestone in PureHealth’s long-term commitment to Emiratisation and its mission to build a future-ready healthcare workforce powered by UAE Nationals. The programme has upskilled 317 PureHealth employees to date, with the graduation of the third and largest cohort this year, reflecting PureHealth’s strategic investment towards growing Emirati leadership and unlocking the full potential of local talent.
Her Excellency Dr. Noura Al Ghaithi said: “At the Department of Health – Abu Dhabi, we remain steadfast in our commitment to empowering Emirati talent, the foundation of our nation’s progress. As the Emirate advances its ambitious vision to shape world-class, innovative healthcare, our esteemed partners at PureHealth play a vital role in developing local capabilities and championing the next generation of healthcare leaders. Together with our strategic partners, DoH continues to foster a thriving environment that unlocks the potential of every Emirati, ensuring they are equipped to excel and drive the future of healthcare in the emirate. Congratulations to the exceptional graduates. Their achievements reflect the limitless possibilities created when ambition meets opportunity within Abu Dhabi’s world-class healthcare sector, proudly leading us forward to a healthier future.”
Rashed Saif Al Qubaisi said: “Built on the pillars of innovation, excellence and national pride, we congratulate the future leaders who have graduated today. This programme has been uniquely designed to identify talent, support their growth and prepare them for leadership roles. Each cohort represents progress, and we celebrate the dedication and growth of 146 individuals who reflect the UAE’s commitment to excellence, which is an inspiration to the world. What we have seen is a group of leaders who are ready to champion national and regional success. We are proud of what they have achieved and even more proud of how their learnings will go on to make world-class healthcare more accessible to all."
The EDC offers distinctive pathways and comprehensive learning experiences that are designed to promote personal and professional growth of individuals. Participants undergo a tailored learning journey through their Individual Development Plans, which are aligned with the organisation's objectives. Their journey is supported by various mentorship modules, real-world projects, and cross-functional, on-the-job training in key areas like leadership, business acumen, research and innovation, and strategy.
As the UAE accelerates its efforts towards building a diversified, sustainable, and knowledge-based economy, developing national leadership in healthcare remains a strategic priority. The Emirati Development Center reflects PureHealth’s contribution to this goal, preparing local talent to take on meaningful roles and drive lasting impact. In line with the UAE Economic Vision 2030, the EDC continues to support Emiratis who are visionaries of the healthcare system and ready to build a healthcare leadership legacy in the UAE.
