UAE Scientist Prof. Alsafar Receives Belgium’s Top Honor

Professor Habiba Alsafar, Dean of the College of Medicine and Health Sciences at Khalifa University of Science and Technology, has been awarded Belgium’s highest honor, the Knight in the Order of Leopold. She is the first scientist from the UAE to receive this prestigious distinction. This recognition celebrates her outstanding scientific contributions and efforts to strengthen international research collaborations.

The award highlights years of cooperation between the UAE and Belgium in scientific research. Prof. Alsafar has played a key role in the landmark Biomedical Science Discovery (BISDI) program. This initiative was launched in the presence of His Highness Sheikh Hamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and His Majesty King Philippe of Belgium. BISDI represents a significant step in developing biomedical research and precision medicine capabilities in the UAE.

The prestigious title was presented by Antoine Delcourt, Ambassador of the Kingdom of Belgium to the UAE, on behalf of His Majesty the King of the Belgians. The ceremony was attended by senior officials from Khalifa University, including Prof. Ebrahim Al Hajri, President of Khalifa University, Homaid Al Shimmari, Vice-Chairman of the Board of Trustees, Samar Almansoori, Senior Vice-President of Support Services, and Amal Al Jaberi, CEO of Khalifa University Enterprises Company. Officials from the Belgian Embassy and university faculty and students were also present, emphasizing the importance of the event.

Ambassador Antoine Delcourt said, “The Order of Leopold is Belgium’s oldest knighthood, awarded to individuals with exceptional achievements and contributions to society. By honoring Prof. Alsafar, the King recognizes her brilliant scientific career and the strong friendship between Belgium and the UAE. Her leadership, vision, and dedication have strengthened our countries’ partnership in science and medicine.”

Prof. Ebrahim Al Hajri said, “Prof. Alsafar’s recognition as the first UAE scientist to receive this honor is a proud moment for Khalifa University and the UAE’s scientific community. Her dedication to research, integrity, and international collaboration reflects the UAE’s growing position as a hub for biomedical innovation.”

Prof. Alsafar expressed her gratitude, stating, “Receiving the title of Knight in the Order of Leopold is a great honor. This award reflects the collaborative spirit between the UAE and Belgium and recognizes the collective work of researchers, students, and partners at Khalifa University. Our research in genomics and precision medicine aims to solve real-world health challenges while building global partnerships. This recognition inspires me to continue advancing healthcare research for the benefit of future generations.”

Prof. Alsafar has led multiple national and international initiatives in precision medicine and genomics, boosting the UAE’s advanced healthcare research capabilities. As Dean, she has supported academic excellence, innovation, and research aligned with national health priorities and the UAE’s vision for medical advancement.

The Biomedical Science Discovery (BISDI) program is a flagship collaboration between Khalifa University and Belgium’s VIB-KU Leuven. The program aims to establish the UAE as a global center for drug development and precision medicine. It focuses on immunotherapy for diseases such as diabetes and cancer, using genomic technologies, AI-driven research, and rapid validation to discover disease-related genes and develop new treatments. BISDI also promotes knowledge sharing, researcher mobility, and capacity building through a Joint PhD Program, preparing the next generation of scientists in both countries.

Prof. Alsafar’s knighthood highlights the growing scientific and healthcare collaboration between the UAE and Belgium. Her work not only advances medical research but also strengthens international partnerships, showcasing the UAE’s progress in global scientific innovation