Medical professionals have long been the foundation of the healthcare system, dedicating their time and energy to safeguarding the community.
In this feature, Connector sheds light on medical professionals around the UAE for all the effort they put into giving back to society and catering to their needs, as well as share some insight into their life as they put on their white coats.
Dr. Zara Ahmed completed The Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS), in 2016 from Eras Lucknow Medical College, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, India, and went on to earn her Diplomate of National Board (DNB) in Emergency Medicine in 2020 from Indraprastha Apollo Hospital, Delhi. She brings extensive experience in managing a broad spectrum of medical emergencies, including trauma, cardiac, respiratory, and neurological emergencies, as well as acute illnesses and lifesaving procedures.
Beyond her clinical practice, Dr. Zara is deeply committed to ongoing education and professional growth. She has successfully completed advanced training in Advanced Cardiac Life Support, Paediatric Advanced Life Support, Advanced Trauma Life Support, and Point-of-Care Ultrasound.
Dr. Zara spoke with Connector about what keeps her motivated at work and reflected on the most difficult case she has encountered.
How does the day begin before heading into work?
As a mother and an emergency physician, my day begins with my toddler in my arms, a little playtime, getting him ready for school, and preparing myself for work. A healthy breakfast and a cup of tea set the tone for the day. I drop my son off, enjoy some good music on the drive, and reach the hospital ready for whatever the day brings.
What was the most difficult case you have had to treat?
Over the years, I’ve managed countless emergency cases, from minor injuries to severe trauma. But one of the most unforgettable cases happened during my time working in India.
A 28-year-old man arrived in the emergency complaining of gastritis after a heavy meal at a party. He appeared uncomfortable, but given his young age and healthy appearance, gastritis seemed likely. Within minutes of being placed on the bed, he suddenly went into a dangerous arrhythmia, followed by cardiac arrest.
We immediately began CPR and delivered a defibrillation shock. He regained a pulse within two minutes. As we prepared to shift him to the cath lab for what was now clearly a heart attack, he arrested again and we revived him.
Given the critical situation, we intubated him, delivered another shock, and continued CPR while wheeling him toward the cath lab. The cycle of medications, shocks, and compressions continued all the way into the lift and into the lab.
Finally, he stabilised, and the angiography began. He survived, the procedure went smoothly, and he walked out of the hospital a week later with full neurological recovery. A major blocked artery had been stented, restoring blood flow to his heart. It was one of those cases that reminds you exactly why emergency medicine matters.
What motivates you to keep coming back to work?
Working as an emergency specialist is demanding. We operate under constant pressure, never knowing what will come through the door next. It’s like the irregular rhythm of a heart, unpredictable, intense, and always requiring full attention. Yet it is also the most gratifying work.
The smile of a patient whose severe pain finally eases, the relief on a family member’s face when their loved one’s breathing improves, the magical recovery of a hypoglycaemic patient after receiving glucose, and the trust patients place in us when they are at their most vulnerable are small victories that keep me committed to this field.
How did you find your niche in the medical field?
My journey into emergency medicine was almost accidental. I didn’t know much about the speciality when I began, but during residency it slowly grew on me. I realised how vital this branch truly is. The Emergency Department (ED) represents the golden hour of a person’s worst day.
It’s where people arrive in distress, searching for answers, reassurance, and direction, and we have the privilege of providing that. It’s the adrenaline, the instant impact, and the ability to find calm in the chaos that made me fall in love with emergency medicine.
After a busy work day, what do you like to do to unwind?
After a busy day, I go home to unwind. I cook dinner for my husband, spend time doing puzzles or reading with my son, or meet other mums for a walk or a playdate. I end my day with quality time, a movie and dinner with my husband.
What are some of your dreams and aspirations with your career?
Having spent my entire career in the ED, I aspire to strengthen this speciality further and increase awareness of its importance. I want to continue achieving those small daily wins by providing evidence-based emergency care and growing into a strong leadership role.
ED leadership means navigating complex medical scenarios while also understanding human behaviour. Supporting patients, families, nurses, housekeeping staff, and fellow doctors creates the harmony needed for a truly effective emergency department.
I hope to reach a level of accountability, influence, and excellence that reflects the best of what emergency medicine can offer.
Dr. Zara Ahmed
Specialist Emergency Medicine
RAK Hospital
07-2074444