In a major medical achievement for Dubai, a 13 month old baby named Malek has become the first patient in the city to undergo a paediatric liver transplant, marking a turning point for specialised child healthcare in the UAE.
The life-saving surgery was carried out at King’s College Hospital London in Dubai, led by Professor Mohamed Rela, a world-renowned liver transplant expert, with support from a team of specialists. The transplant was made possible with help from Al Jalila Children’s Hospital, where Malek was first treated for a hole in the heart, and where his father received care before donating part of his liver to save his son. Al Jalila Foundation, Dubai Health's philanthropic arm, also covered all medical costs, including hospital care, surgery and follow-up treatments.
Malek was born with biliary atresia, a rare condition affecting the liver, along with a congenital heart defect. After his health began to decline, doctors at Al Jalila Children’s Hospital referred him for the transplant at King's College Hospital London in Dubai, which was successfully completed.
Thanks to the combined efforts by the medical professionals in Dubai, the child has now been discharged in good health and is recovering well.
Dr. Tashfeen Siddiq Ali, Chief Medical Officer at King’s College Hospital London in Dubai, said this marks a new chapter for healthcare in the city and reflects Dubai’s growing ability to provide world-class, specialised medical care close to home.