Abu Dhabi witnessed a significant healthcare collaboration as Bascom Palmer Eye Institute Abu Dhabi and the Emirates Society of Ophthalmology (ESO) formalized a strategic partnership through a Memorandum of Understanding. The ceremony, held at Bascom Palmer’s Abu Dhabi facility, established a framework for cooperative efforts to enhance ophthalmic education, research, and clinical standards throughout the United Arab Emirates.
This alliance brings together ESO, the UAE’s premier professional organization representing ophthalmologists, and the Abu Dhabi branch of the internationally acclaimed Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, which has maintained its position as the top-ranked ophthalmology center in the United States for 24 consecutive years according to U.S. News & World Report.
Dr. Sheikha Noura Al Qassimi, President of ESO, characterized the agreement as a transformative milestone for ophthalmic advancement in the region. ‘This partnership embodies our mutual dedication with Bascom Palmer to propel ophthalmic education, clinical excellence, and innovation across the UAE,’ she stated. ‘We are establishing a comprehensive platform for scientific programming, professional training, and knowledge exchange that will strengthen clinical standards and contribute to sustainable eye care development throughout the Emirates.’
The collaboration extends beyond conventional conference partnerships to include initiatives focused on best practice implementation, public awareness campaigns, and unique opportunities for Emirati medical students and residents to engage with Bascom Palmer’s global faculty and advanced facilities.
Dr. Zain Kenderian, CEO of Bascom Palmer Eye Institute Abu Dhabi, emphasized the partnership’s broader implications: ‘This represents a pivotal moment for ophthalmic education and professional development in the UAE. Our joint commitment with ESO will elevate training, research, and clinical excellence for the benefit of medical professionals and the community at large. This memorandum initiates a long-term journey to advance regional eye care.’
A joint oversight committee will ensure the partnership delivers tangible outcomes. Suhail Jaffar Al Zarouni, Board Chairman of Bascom Palmer Abu Dhabi, highlighted the practical benefits: ‘Collaborating with ESO enables us to directly bring Miami’s pioneering faculty and research to UAE professionals, creating lasting impact through shared knowledge and best practices.’
The ceremony concluded with both institutions expressing confidence that their collaboration will accelerate progress in addressing regional eye health challenges, including diabetic retinopathy and pediatric care, while reinforcing the UAE’s emerging status as a hub for medical excellence.