National Rehabilitation Center, Emirates Scholar & Zayed Higher Organization strengthen cooperation in scientific research & rehabilitation.
Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates – August 2025:
Dr. Samia Al Maamari, Director of the Medical Sector at the National Rehabilitation Center in Abu Dhabi, received a joint delegation from the Emirates Scholar Center for Research and Studies and the Zayed Higher Organization for People of Determination. The delegation included Dr. Firas Habbal, President of the Center and Vice Chancellor of the Board of Trustees, Dr. Fawaz Habbal, Director-General of the Center, Mr. Ali Makki, Board of Trustees Member, and Ms. Nusaiba Al Hammadi, Head of the Comprehensive Diagnosis Center at Zayed Higher Organization for People of Determination, along with several experts and senior officials from both sides.
The meeting aimed to strengthen institutional cooperation in scientific research and applied studies, explore prospects for future partnerships that advance scientific publishing, exchange specialized expertise, and launch innovative research projects to support the UAE’s public health system—particularly in addiction treatment, mental health, and rehabilitation. These efforts align with the priorities of the national agenda in the health and development sectors and reinforce the objectives of the “Year of Community”.
Dr. Samia Al Maamari emphasized that unifying research efforts with leading academic partners and national institutions contributes to creating evidence-based solutions that support treatment and rehabilitation programs and enhance quality of life within the community.
For his part, Dr. Firas Habbal stated that this cooperation represents a strategic step toward integrating national research capabilities in service of public health and in developing health policies and programs at both the local and regional levels.
The meeting also discussed potential collaboration in scientific publishing through peer-reviewed journals issued by the center, most notably the International Journal of Rehabilitation & Disability Studies, published by Zayed Higher Organization in partnership with the Emirates Scholar Center and the International Rehabilitation Organization. The two sides further explored the possibility of forming joint research committees and developing quantitative and qualitative studies specialized in the field of rehabilitation.
The visit concluded with both parties affirming their commitment to continued coordination and to building a knowledge-based environment that fosters research innovation and strengthens the UAE’s position as a regional and global hub in rehabilitation and mental health.
