Abu Dhabi to Welcome First Bascom Palmer Eye Institute Facility Outside the US

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In a landmark move for the UAE’s healthcare sector, the Department of Health – Abu Dhabi (DoH) has announced a partnership with the Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, marking the institute’s first-ever international facility outside the United States.

Recognised by U.S. News & World Report as the number one eye hospital in America for 24 consecutive years, Bascom Palmer’s arrival in the UAE signals a new era for ophthalmic excellence, cutting-edge research, and world-class patient care in the region.

Set to officially open in November 2025, the new centre will be established through a strategic collaboration between Bascom Palmer Eye Institute and August Medical, part of SOZA Group. The partnership aims to deliver advanced ophthalmic care, foster pioneering research, and expand international medical education, reinforcing Abu Dhabi’s position as a leading global destination for specialised healthcare.

A Major Step in Abu Dhabi’s Healthcare Vision

Dr. Noura Al Ghaithi, Under-Secretary of the Department of Health – Abu Dhabi, hailed the collaboration as a milestone that aligns perfectly with the emirate’s long-term healthcare ambitions.

“The partnership with Bascom Palmer Eye Institute reflects Abu Dhabi’s commitment to hosting the world’s best medical institutions. Our progressive regulations and advanced healthcare infrastructure create an ecosystem that encourages collaboration, innovation, and excellence,” she said.
“This initiative will ensure residents and patients across the region have access to the highest international standards of eye care.”

Abu Dhabi has been actively pursuing its vision to become a hub for global medical excellence, attracting internationally recognised names in healthcare and research. This new project marks a significant advancement in that mission, particularly in the field of ophthalmology.

Architectural Excellence Meets Medical Innovation

Located in Mohammed Bin Zayed City, the new 70,000-square-foot ambulatory care centre will feature gemstone-inspired architecture, symbolising clarity, precision, and excellence — the same attributes essential to world-class eye care.

The facility will be equipped with 31 examination rooms, three state-of-the-art operating theatres, laser and refractive suites, and specialised departments, including:

• Ocular Surface Disease Laboratory

• ENT and Sleep Centre

• Advanced diagnostic and surgical technology zones

In addition to medical services, the centre will house educational facilities and patient-focused amenities, ensuring a holistic and comfortable experience for both local and international patients.

Comprehensive Eye Care Under One Roof

Once operational, Bascom Palmer Eye Institute – Abu Dhabi will offer a full spectrum of ophthalmic services covering:

• Retinal and corneal diseases

• Glaucoma and cataract treatment

• Ocular oncology

• Paediatric ophthalmology

• Complex orbital and reconstructive procedures

The institute will also provide advanced laser and refractive surgeries, supported by the latest global technologies and guided by Bascom Palmer’s world-renowned expertise.

Dr. Abdul Rahim Jaffar, Board Member of Bascom Palmer Eye Institute – Abu Dhabi, noted that the facility embodies the UAE’s long-term vision for healthcare innovation and excellence.

“This project reflects our leadership’s dedication to building a healthcare infrastructure that matches the best in the world. Bascom Palmer’s presence will elevate the level of specialised care and attract top medical talent to the UAE,” he said.

Expanding Global Excellence in Eye Care

Dipen J. Parekh, Chief Executive Officer for UHealth and Executive Vice President for Health Affairs at the University of Miami, said the new facility represents a natural evolution of Bascom Palmer’s global mission.

“Our expansion into Abu Dhabi marks a defining moment in Bascom Palmer’s history. We are extending our world-class care and research to reach more patients and train more physicians worldwide,” Parekh stated.
“The collaboration with Abu Dhabi’s Department of Health and August Medical allows us to bring our excellence to a region committed to innovation and quality care.”

The Abu Dhabi centre will serve as an educational hub, offering regional training programs and knowledge-sharing initiatives for eye specialists, medical students, and researchers, fostering a culture of continuous learning and advancement in ophthalmology.

A Global Healthcare Milestone for the UAE

The establishment of Bascom Palmer’s first overseas facility represents more than an institutional expansion — it’s a milestone for the UAE’s national healthcare strategy. By integrating advanced technology, patient-centred care, and international best practices, the project underscores Abu Dhabi’s commitment to creating a globally connected medical ecosystem.

The new eye institute is expected to attract thousands of patients from across the Middle East, Africa, and Asia, strengthening the emirate’s status as a regional hub for medical tourism.

As the official opening approaches, Abu Dhabi stands ready to welcome one of the world’s most prestigious names in ophthalmology — a step that will not only transform eye care in the UAE but also reaffirm the nation’s leadership in global healthcare innovation.

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