DHA calls for more Emiratis to enter medical profession

DUBAI // Emiratis are being urged to enter the medical profession in an attempt to boost dwindling numbers of nationals working for Dubai Health Authority.

Just 1 per cent of nurses in Dubai are Emirati and 14 per cent of paramedics are nationals, who also make up just 27 per cent of DHA doctors.

Government sponsorship will be offered to 130 Emiratis every year from September in the hope of increasing the numbers joining the health profession.

A programme will also launch in schools and universities to show young people the merits of working in medicine.

Amna Al Suwaidi, director of human resources at DHA, said young Emiratis were shunning medicine.

“It can take a long time to study to be a medical professional – up to seven years in some cases – so some people are put off at being in education for that long,” she said. “We will be visiting schools and universities to ... show what an attractive career it is.”

Applications to enrol can be made online to start learning from the next academic year.

Cash incentives are being offered for students training to become nurses or paramedics who excel during their course.

After graduation, the students will secure jobs at DHA hospitals and clinics.

“Students will be shown how they can apply, and what the advantages will be for them,” she said. “The money is an attractive part of the job, of course, but it is very rewarding for all of our medical professionals here in Dubai.

“We are very proud of the Emiratis who have chosen to work in this field. They can be an inspiration ... for young people.”

Tuition fees to complete a medical degree at university can cost up to Dh89,000, whereas nurses can expect to pay Dh46,500 for their training and paramedics Dh36,200.

Emirati high school pupils will be chosen by a committee. Those interested in applying should visit the DHA website.

“[With] this programme we hope to not only elevate this sector further, but also to support the Emiratisation drive in Dubai,” said Humaid Al Qatami, DHA director general.