Sheikh Nahyan Launches Golden Awards for Healthcare Excellence

Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, Minister of Tolerance and Coexistence, inaugurated the sixth edition of the Golden Initiative “Star of Excellence in Patient Experience” Awards in Abu Dhabi on 17th September. The event, organised by the Arab Hospitals Federation, celebrates healthcare institutions that prioritize patient experience and introduce innovative and sustainable practices to improve health outcomes.

Attendance and Distinguished Guests

The ceremony was attended by Khalaf Hilal Al Mazrouei, Director-General of Institutional Empowerment and Social Services at the Department of Health – Abu Dhabi; MP Fady Alame, President of the Arab Hospitals Federation; along with senior officials, policymakers, and healthcare executives from 12 Arab countries.

Sheikh Nahyan’s Keynote Address

In his keynote, Sheikh Nahyan congratulated the winning hospitals and healthcare leaders, saying, “I am truly delighted to be with you this evening at the sixth edition of the Golden Star Awards for Excellence in Patient Experience. Your dedication highlights our shared aspirations in the Arab world to improve health and quality of life.”

He praised the Arab Hospitals Federation for advancing healthcare excellence and recognized the contributions of hospitals in promoting patient-centered care, preventive health programs, accurate diagnosis, effective treatment, and medical research.

Collaboration With the Beryl Institute

Sheikh Nahyan also welcomed representatives from the US-based Beryl Institute, sponsors of the awards. He noted, “The Institute’s outstanding reputation ensures global recognition and high standards for this competition. Its focus on advancing the human experience in healthcare is crucial for ensuring global health and is deeply appreciated.”

Importance of Healthcare Excellence

He emphasized the UAE leadership’s commitment to healthcare quality, stating that good health strengthens society. “Under the wise leadership of President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, we are committed to excellence in our healthcare system as a foundation of national development,” Sheikh Nahyan said.

He urged healthcare professionals to remain steadfast in their mission to improve patient experiences and quality of life, calling them innovators and achievers who drive positive change in the region.

Awards and Recognition

The sixth edition of the Golden Initiative saw 267 healthcare institutions from 12 Arab countries participating with innovative initiatives. After a rigorous evaluation, 39 institutions from 8 countries were recognized for their excellence in patient care.

Key UAE winners included: PureHealth, Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi, Sheikh Khalifa Medical City, Tawam Hospital, SEHA Clinics, and several others.

Other notable winners from the region:

• Saudi Arabia: King Khalid Hospital, Security Forces Hospital – Dammam, Al-Mousa Specialty Hospital

• Qatar: Apex Health, The View Hospital

• Iraq: Al-Nasiriya Teaching Hospital

• Lebanon: American University of Beirut Medical Center

• Bahrain: Government Hospitals in Bahrain

• Egypt: Cleopatra Hospitals Group, Saudi German Academy – Cairo

• Oman: Quality Assurance Center – Ministry of Health

Significance of the Initiative

The Golden Initiative emphasizes compassion, purpose, and patient-centered care, aiming to ensure every patient feels respected and valued. With growing participation each year, it has become a benchmark for healthcare excellence in the Arab world.

Arab Hospitals Federation Expresses Gratitude

On the sidelines, a high-level delegation from the Executive Council of the Arab Hospitals Federation met Sheikh Nahyan at his majlis to express appreciation for his patronage and support. The initiative reflects values of tolerance, generosity, and compassion, which guide the Arab Hospitals Federation in placing patient experience at the heart of healthcare transformation.