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.
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Company Profile:
Name: The Protein Bakeshop
Date of start: 2013
Founders: Rashi Chowdhary and Saad Umerani
Based: Dubai
Size, number of employees: 12
Funding/investors: $400,000 (2018)
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Credit Score explained
What is a credit score?
In the UAE your credit score is a number generated by the Al Etihad Credit Bureau (AECB), which represents your credit worthiness – in other words, your risk of defaulting on any debt repayments. In this country, the number is between 300 and 900. A low score indicates a higher risk of default, while a high score indicates you are a lower risk.
Why is it important?
Financial institutions will use it to decide whether or not you are a credit risk. Those with better scores may also receive preferential interest rates or terms on products such as loans, credit cards and mortgages.
How is it calculated?
The AECB collects information on your payment behaviour from banks as well as utilitiy and telecoms providers.
How can I improve my score?
By paying your bills on time and not missing any repayments, particularly your loan, credit card and mortgage payments. It is also wise to limit the number of credit card and loan applications you make and to reduce your outstanding balances.
How do I know if my score is low or high?
By checking it. Visit one of AECB’s Customer Happiness Centres with an original and valid Emirates ID, passport copy and valid email address. Liv. customers can also access the score directly from the banking app.
How much does it cost?
A credit report costs Dh100 while a report with the score included costs Dh150. Those only wanting the credit score pay Dh60. VAT is payable on top.
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