Sheikh Mohammed establishes new cancer hospital named after late Deputy Ruler of Dubai

The Hamdan bin Rashid Cancer Charity Hospital will have the capacity to treat up to 30,000 people a year

Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid announced a new cancer hospital to be established in honour of his late brother, Sheikh Hamdan bin Rashid.

Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid, Vice President and Ruler of Dubai, on Tuesday announced the establishment of a new 250-bed cancer hospital for Dubai named after his late brother, Sheikh Hamdan bin Rashid.

He said the Hamdan bin Rashid Cancer Charity Hospital would have the capacity to treat up to 30,000 people a year.

Sheikh Mohammed said the facility would act as a fitting tribute to Sheikh Hamdan, the Deputy Ruler of Dubai and Minister of Finance, who died last month following a period of poor health.

The Al Jalila Foundation will oversee the development of the country's first charity hospital, which will offer free treatment to the needy.

"Today, we announce plans to establish the Hamdan bin Rashid Cancer Charity Hospital to provide free cancer care for people in need," Sheikh Mohammed wrote on Twitter. "Spanning 50,000 square meters, the 250-bed capacity hospital will treat 30,000 patients a year.

"Hamdan bin Rashid was known for his humility and selfless giving that touched millions of lives. His devotion to education, healthcare and orphans continued throughout his lifetime, and the impact of his work is still seen in every corner in Dubai. His demise left a void.”

The hospital is expected to open in 2023.

"His name will remain and immortal, God willing, in the record of the benefactors."

The seven-storey hospital will be equipped with the latest healthcare technology to aid patients.

A total of 150 beds will be created in the first phase of the project, before capacity is eventually expanded to 250 beds.

Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, chairman of the board of trustees of Al Jalila Foundation, said the cancer hospital will pay homage to the values of the Emirates as it celebrates its first 50 years.

"As the UAE prepares for its Golden Jubilee and the next 50 years, there is no greater priority than good healthcare and the Al Jalila Foundation aims to play its part in providing medical excellence in the UAE – especially for the most vulnerable in society," he said.

"The Hamdan bin Rashid Cancer Charity Hospital will bring together innovative expertise, advanced medical technologies and wellbeing strategies to propel the UAE's vision forward to become a leader in cancer care."

Sheikh Hamdan was one of the cornerstones of the UAE's rapid development over the past 50 years.

He was appointed as Minister of Finance in the Cabinet under Sheikh Zayed, the Founding Father, after the formation of the country in December 1971 and held the post until his death.

He was in his mid-70s.

Sheikh Mohammed paid warm tribute to his brother following his death.

In a touching poem, he spoke of a man of "wisdom" and "courage", who offered him "endless support".

Sheikh Hamdan bin Rashid – in pictures