Sheikh Mohammed Celebrates Kanad Hospital's 65 Years of Care

Sheikh Mohammed bin Hamdan bin Zayed Al Nahyan attended the 65th anniversary of Kanad Hospital, renowned for pioneering healthcare in the Abu Dhabi emirate.

The ceremony honoured the hospital’s rich legacy since its founding in 1960. Established in a modest mud-brick guesthouse in Al Ain, it received pivotal support from the UAE's Founding Father, Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan. The initial clinic, overseen by American doctors Dr. Pat and Marian Kennedy, set the stage for the region’s healthcare infrastructure.

In his speech, Sheikh Mohammed remarked on how the establishment of Al Ain's first hospital—before the UAE’s formation—demonstrated Sheikh Zayed’s visionary foresight and his commitment to public health as a fundamental element of nation-building.

Dr. Richard Bramble, the Managing Director, greeted honored guests and reflected on the hospital's esteemed legacy, noting that this milestone highlights decades of commitment to quality care within the community.

Significantly, the inaugural Marian Kennedy Award was presented to Dr. Noura Khamis Al Ghaithi, Undersecretary of the Department of Health – Abu Dhabi, acknowledging her contributions to healthcare policy. Professor Dr. Humaid Obaid Al Shamsi received the Pat Kennedy Award for his exceptional work in internal medicine and oncology, notably in enhancing cancer care.

The ceremony also recognised long-serving staff with the Kanad Lifetime Service Award, celebrating those with 35 years of dedication. Furthermore, the Kanad Will to Live Award highlighted inspiring patient stories of resilience against severe health challenges.

Through the years, Kanad Hospital has grown to become a leading healthcare institution in the Al Ain area, covering over 26,000 square metres and employing more than 80 doctors from 44 different nationalities. The hospital offers a wide range of specialized services, including pediatrics, obstetrics, neurology, and ophthalmology.

Remarkably, Kanad Hospital was the first private hospital in Abu Dhabi to earn Joint Commission International (JCI) accreditation and has gained international recognition for its neonatal respiratory distress treatment initiative and natural birth after C-section program.

Remaining dedicated to its humanitarian mission, Kanad Hospital continues to be a vital part of healthcare in Al Ain, leading in birth deliveries and housing a premier foetal medicine department along with a Level 3 Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, affirming its commitment to patient care excellence.