From In-Utero Surgery to 135 Days in NICU: An Emirati Baby’s Incredible Fight for Survival
Abu Dhabi: From the 12-week fetal scan during which a serious fetal defect was detected to undergoing in-utero surgery, a specialized EXIT procedure at birth, and major surgery to repair his diaphragm at 6 days old, baby Saif’s arrival into this world was fraught with challenges. After a 135-day stay in the NICU at Burjeel Medical City (BMC), Abu Dhabi, the little one emerged victorious, and is set to go home with his parents. Baby Saif’s parents, an Emirati couple from Al Ain, are relieved by the miraculous recovery of their newborn son following a complex medical journey that began even before his birth.
Abu Dhabi doctors use laser technology to remove 40 kidney stones in two-hour operation.
Surgeons in Abu Dhabi have removed 40 kidney stones from a 27-year-old patient using a minimally invasive surgical procedure.
Medics at Lifecare Hospital in Mussaffah used laser lithotripsy to treat Balkar Singh, a carpenter from India.
The technology breaks kidney stones into smaller pieces that can be removed by surgeons or flushed out of the body.
Mr Singh, who works for a construction company in Mussaffah, was in agony when he visited doctors, after suffering with symptoms for more than a year.
The doctors diagnosed ureterocele, a blockage in his bladder. They said the congenital condition had caused his ureter to swell and the stones to accumulate.
Mr Singh, from Punjab, said he put up with chronic stomach pain and a burning sensation when urinating, before seeking medical help.
“I started getting pain in the lower portion of my stomach about a year ago,” he said.
“At that time, I was in India and did not consider it seriously.
“I used to get pain intermittently. But it was manageable until a few months later, when my condition worsened. It became excruciatingly painful.”
Doctors in India prescribed medicine and advised Mr Singh to consider surgery. But he was about to move to Abu Dhabi, so postponed the procedure owing to the recovery time required.
Medicine including painkillers allowed him to continue working for a few months, before the pain became too much to endure and his colleagues advised him to have a hospital check-up.
A urologist at Lifecare Hospital referred Mr Singh for an X-ray and ultrasound, and discovered 40 kidney stones blocking his ureter, each measuring from 8 to 25 millimetres in size.
“I was shocked when the doctor told me how many there were. I could not believe it,” Mr Singh said.
Ureteroceles are ballooning inside the ureters, tubes that connect the kidneys to the bladder.
The condition is most likely to cause problems in children and younger adults.
Commonly caused by a urinary tract infection, it can lead to symptoms such as fevers, a burning sensation and a loss of bladder control.
In adults, a ureterocele can cause urine to flow backwards from the bladder to the kidneyand become more serious. It occurs in less than one in 500 people and is usually caused by a genetic anomaly.
Doctors would usually perform minorsurgery to remove kidney stones, but owing to their number and size in Mr Singh’s case, this risked permanent damage to his bladder.
Instead, specialist urologist Dr Althaf Hussain took a more unusual approach.
Using laser, the stones were broken down into fragments small enough to pass through the patient’s ureter. They could then be expelled naturally from his body.
“In this case, the patient had a rare condition of a swollen ureter blocked by multiple stones – it is an unusual occurrence,” Dr Hussain said.
“Ideally, we would have preferred an open surgery to remove the stones. But that would have involved multiple risks of incurring injuries to the bladder and vessels. His recovery would also have taken much longer.”
Mr Singh was discharged from hospital only 24 hours after the procedure and has recovered well.
“Being a doctor, it is our responsibility to offer the best care to our patients,” Dr Hussain said.
“That means quicker recovery and maximum comfort.
“I had explained the procedure in detail to Mr Singh, and he also chose to undergo the laser therapy.”
Burjeel Medical City Launches Advanced Balance Lab to Enhance Comprehensive ENT Services
The lab is dedicated to the comprehensive diagnosis, treatment, and rehabilitation of balance and vertigo disorders
Abu Dhabi: Burjeel Medical City (BMC), the flagship facility under Burjeel Holdings, has unveiled a state-of-the-art Balance Lab within the Burjeel ENT Head & Neck Institute. This new facility is dedicated to the comprehensive diagnosis, treatment, and rehabilitation of balance and vertigo disorders, further strengthening BMC’s advanced offerings in otolaryngology (ear, nose, throat) and head & neck surgery.
The Balance Lab was officially opened in the presence of Dr. Shamsheer Vayalil, Founder and Chairman of Burjeel Holdings, Mr. John Sunil, Group CEO of Burjeel Holdings, alongside Dr. Mujtaba Ali Khan, CEO of BMC, and other senior officials.
“The opening of our Balance Lab represents a significant step in our ongoing commitment to delivering world-class, patient-centered care. By leveraging cutting-edge technologies and a multidisciplinary approach, we are enhancing the accuracy and precision of diagnoses while redefining the standard of care for individuals affected by balance and vertigo disorders. We are proud to lead the way in innovative healthcare, empowering our clinical teams and elevating the quality of life for every patient we serve with the highest level of expertise and support,” said Mr. John Sunil.
Burjeel Medical City Launches Advanced Balance Lab to Enhance Comprehensive ENT Services
The lab is dedicated to the comprehensive diagnosis, treatment, and rehabilitation of balance and vertigo disorders
Abu Dhabi: Burjeel Medical City (BMC), the flagship facility under Burjeel Holdings, has unveiled a state-of-the-art Balance Lab within the Burjeel ENT Head & Neck Institute. This new facility is dedicated to the comprehensive diagnosis, treatment, and rehabilitation of balance and vertigo disorders, further strengthening BMC’s advanced offerings in otolaryngology (ear, nose, throat) and head & neck surgery.
The Balance Lab was officially opened in the presence of Dr. Shamsheer Vayalil, Founder and Chairman of Burjeel Holdings, Mr. John Sunil, Group CEO of Burjeel Holdings, alongside Dr. Mujtaba Ali Khan, CEO of BMC, and other senior officials.
“The opening of our Balance Lab represents a significant step in our ongoing commitment to delivering world-class, patient-centered care. By leveraging cutting-edge technologies and a multidisciplinary approach, we are enhancing the accuracy and precision of diagnoses while redefining the standard of care for individuals affected by balance and vertigo disorders. We are proud to lead the way in innovative healthcare, empowering our clinical teams and elevating the quality of life for every patient we serve with the highest level of expertise and support,” said Mr. John Sunil.
Specialized Focus on Balance and Vertigo Disorders

Designed to address a wide range of balance and vertigo conditions affecting all age groups, the Balance Lab utilizes a structured testing protocol to accurately diagnose and quantify the underlying causes of dizziness and imbalance. These conditions can result from various factors, including inner ear disorders, neurological issues, strokes, muscle weaknesses, and peripheral neuropathy.
The Balance Lab is equipped with state-of-the-art technology to assess and rehabilitate individuals with balance and vertigo disorders. Utilizing the latest-generation Vestibular Nystagmography (VNG), Video Head Impulse Test (VHIT), rotatory chairs, and TRV chairs specifically designed for persistent Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV), the lab accurately identifies, localizes, and quantifies balance system impairments. With tools like Computerized Dynamic Posturography, the lab can simulate various scenarios, including visual and movement-based conditions, allowing for early diagnosis of balance disorders that might otherwise remain undetected. The lab also plays a crucial role in rehabilitation, offering tailored therapy programs designed to address long-term challenges and prevent falls. These advanced tools enable early detection and precise localization of balance system impairments, facilitating targeted treatment plans and effective rehabilitation strategies.
“Our Balance Lab is a unique facility that combines all essential diagnostic and rehabilitation equipment with advanced software and functionality. This integration allows us to diagnose even the most challenging conditions early and support effective rehabilitation through a multidisciplinary approach,” said Dr. Shaik Irfan Basha, Director of the Burjeel ENT Head & Neck Institute.
Burjeel Holdings Strengthens ESG Commitment with ‘Better By Nature’ Initiative
Abu Dhabi, UAE, 26 November 2024: In a significant step toward advancing its Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) goals, Burjeel Holdings, a leading super-specialty healthcare services provider in the MENA region, has unveiled the ‘Better By Nature’ initiative, a program that combines environmental stewardship with employee engagement. A key highlight of the initiative is the Group’s commitment to planting a tree for every employee on their birthday— an effort expected to add approximately 13,000 trees annually to the tree cover. This not only celebrates the employees but also raises environmental awareness and contributes to enhancing the green landscape of the city. The program reaffirms the Group’s commitment to achieving carbon neutrality by 2040 and aligns with the UAE’s broader sustainability vision.
To mark the launch, Burjeel Holdings employees gathered at Jubail Mangrove Park in Abu Dhabi to plant mangroves. The event was led by Mr. Safeer Ahamed, Chief Operating Officer of Burjeel Holdings, and Mr. Muhammed Shihabuddin, Chief Financial Officer of Burjeel Holdings, underscoring the leadership’s dedication to building eco-conscious practices across the organization.
Burjeel Holdings Expands Complex Orthopedic Care with the Launch of Nader Orthopedics & Sports Medicine Center in Abu Dhabi
The Center, led by renowned orthopedic surgeon Dr. Nader Darwich, located at Burjeel Day Surgery Center, Al Reem Island, offers tailored solutions.
Abu Dhabi, September 12, 2024: In line with its commitment to enhancing accessibility to complex care in the UAE, Burjeel Holdings, a leading super-specialty healthcare services provider in MENA, has launched the Nader Orthopedics & Sports Medicine Center at Burjeel Day Surgery Center, Al Reem Island. The state-of-the-art facility employs the latest medical technology and innovative treatment techniques to deliver personalized care.
The center was inaugurated by His Excellency Adnan Hamad Al Hammadi, Member of the Federal National Council, alongside Dr. Shamsheer Vayalil, Founder and Chairman of Burjeel Holdings, Mr. John Sunil, Group CEO of Burjeel Holdings, Mr. Omran Al Khoori, Executive Board Member at Burjeel Holdings, and Dr. Ghuwaya Al Neyadi, Senior Vice President, Group Medical & Wellbeing, ADNOC, and Non-Executive Board Member at Burjeel Holdings.
Burjeel Holdings Expands Complex Orthopedic Care with the Launch of Nader Orthopedics & Sports Medicine Center in Abu Dhabi
The Center, led by renowned orthopedic surgeon Dr. Nader Darwich, located at Burjeel Day Surgery Center, Al Reem Island, offers tailored solutions.
Abu Dhabi, September 12, 2024: In line with its commitment to enhancing accessibility to complex care in the UAE, Burjeel Holdings, a leading super-specialty healthcare services provider in MENA, has launched the Nader Orthopedics & Sports Medicine Center at Burjeel Day Surgery Center, Al Reem Island. The state-of-the-art facility employs the latest medical technology and innovative treatment techniques to deliver personalized care.
The center was inaugurated by His Excellency Adnan Hamad Al Hammadi, Member of the Federal National Council, alongside Dr. Shamsheer Vayalil, Founder and Chairman of Burjeel Holdings, Mr. John Sunil, Group CEO of Burjeel Holdings, Mr. Omran Al Khoori, Executive Board Member at Burjeel Holdings, and Dr. Ghuwaya Al Neyadi, Senior Vice President, Group Medical & Wellbeing, ADNOC, and Non-Executive Board Member at Burjeel Holdings.
ADU Partners with Burjeel Holdings to Advance Clinical Research and Enhance Academic Programs
UAE, Abu Dhabi:Abu Dhabi University (ADU) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Burjeel Holdings, a leading super-specialty healthcare services provider in MENA, to advance national research in health sciences and enhance the academic experience for university students through world-class practical expertise.
The two parties will collaborate to advance clinical studies in the UAE in line with national ambitions to become a global healthcare hub. The partnership will also increase opportunities for national and international grants for ADU students and faculty members.
Through joint initiatives, ADU and Burjeel Holdings aim to improve academic excellence and integrate industry insights to further develop curricula for students. Both parties also seek to foster innovation through collaborative research projects and the inauguration of innovative labs, advancing ADU’s standing as a hub for cutting-edge discoveries.
Abu Dhabi University continues to invest in its research capabilities to contribute to the UAE’s vision of building a knowledge-based economy. Leveraging Burjeel Holdings’ leading expertise in healthcare and the university’s world-class academic excellence, we aim to elevate the standards of research in the field of health sciences. At ADU, we are committed to creating a dynamic learning environment that adapts to the ever-evolving needs of the industry, ensuring our students are well-prepared to become the future leaders and innovators of tomorrow.
Dr. Hamad Odhabi
Vice Chancellor for Financial and Administrative Affairs of ADU
From In-Utero Surgery to 135 Days in NICU: An Emirati Baby’s Incredible Fight for Survival
Abu Dhabi: From the 12-week fetal scan during which a serious fetal defect was detected to undergoing in-utero surgery, a specialized EXIT procedure at birth, and major surgery to repair his diaphragm at 6 days old, baby Saif’s arrival into this world was fraught with challenges. After a 135-day stay in the NICU at Burjeel Medical City (BMC), Abu Dhabi, the little one emerged victorious, and is set to go home with his parents. Baby Saif’s parents, an Emirati couple from Al Ain, are relieved by the miraculous recovery of their newborn son following a complex medical journey that began even before his birth.
Burjeel Holdings Strengthens ESG Commitment with ‘Better By Nature’ Initiative
Abu Dhabi, UAE, 26 November 2024: In a significant step toward advancing its Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) goals, Burjeel Holdings, a leading super-specialty healthcare services provider in the MENA region, has unveiled the ‘Better By Nature’ initiative, a program that combines environmental stewardship with employee engagement. A key highlight of the initiative is the Group’s commitment to planting a tree for every employee on their birthday— an effort expected to add approximately 13,000 trees annually to the tree cover. This not only celebrates the employees but also raises environmental awareness and contributes to enhancing the green landscape of the city. The program reaffirms the Group’s commitment to achieving carbon neutrality by 2040 and aligns with the UAE’s broader sustainability vision.
To mark the launch, Burjeel Holdings employees gathered at Jubail Mangrove Park in Abu Dhabi to plant mangroves. The event was led by Mr. Safeer Ahamed, Chief Operating Officer of Burjeel Holdings, and Mr. Muhammed Shihabuddin, Chief Financial Officer of Burjeel Holdings, underscoring the leadership’s dedication to building eco-conscious practices across the organization.
Burjeel Medical City Launches Advanced Balance Lab to Enhance Comprehensive ENT Services
The lab is dedicated to the comprehensive diagnosis, treatment, and rehabilitation of balance and vertigo disorders
Abu Dhabi: Burjeel Medical City (BMC), the flagship facility under Burjeel Holdings, has unveiled a state-of-the-art Balance Lab within the Burjeel ENT Head & Neck Institute. This new facility is dedicated to the comprehensive diagnosis, treatment, and rehabilitation of balance and vertigo disorders, further strengthening BMC’s advanced offerings in otolaryngology (ear, nose, throat) and head & neck surgery.
The Balance Lab was officially opened in the presence of Dr. Shamsheer Vayalil, Founder and Chairman of Burjeel Holdings, Mr. John Sunil, Group CEO of Burjeel Holdings, alongside Dr. Mujtaba Ali Khan, CEO of BMC, and other senior officials.
“The opening of our Balance Lab represents a significant step in our ongoing commitment to delivering world-class, patient-centered care. By leveraging cutting-edge technologies and a multidisciplinary approach, we are enhancing the accuracy and precision of diagnoses while redefining the standard of care for individuals affected by balance and vertigo disorders. We are proud to lead the way in innovative healthcare, empowering our clinical teams and elevating the quality of life for every patient we serve with the highest level of expertise and support,” said Mr. John Sunil.
Specialized Focus on Balance and Vertigo Disorders

Designed to address a wide range of balance and vertigo conditions affecting all age groups, the Balance Lab utilizes a structured testing protocol to accurately diagnose and quantify the underlying causes of dizziness and imbalance. These conditions can result from various factors, including inner ear disorders, neurological issues, strokes, muscle weaknesses, and peripheral neuropathy.
The Balance Lab is equipped with state-of-the-art technology to assess and rehabilitate individuals with balance and vertigo disorders. Utilizing the latest-generation Vestibular Nystagmography (VNG), Video Head Impulse Test (VHIT), rotatory chairs, and TRV chairs specifically designed for persistent Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV), the lab accurately identifies, localizes, and quantifies balance system impairments. With tools like Computerized Dynamic Posturography, the lab can simulate various scenarios, including visual and movement-based conditions, allowing for early diagnosis of balance disorders that might otherwise remain undetected. The lab also plays a crucial role in rehabilitation, offering tailored therapy programs designed to address long-term challenges and prevent falls. These advanced tools enable early detection and precise localization of balance system impairments, facilitating targeted treatment plans and effective rehabilitation strategies.
“Our Balance Lab is a unique facility that combines all essential diagnostic and rehabilitation equipment with advanced software and functionality. This integration allows us to diagnose even the most challenging conditions early and support effective rehabilitation through a multidisciplinary approach,” said Dr. Shaik Irfan Basha, Director of the Burjeel ENT Head & Neck Institute.
Burjeel Medical City Launches Advanced Balance Lab to Enhance Comprehensive ENT Services
The lab is dedicated to the comprehensive diagnosis, treatment, and rehabilitation of balance and vertigo disorders
Abu Dhabi: Burjeel Medical City (BMC), the flagship facility under Burjeel Holdings, has unveiled a state-of-the-art Balance Lab within the Burjeel ENT Head & Neck Institute. This new facility is dedicated to the comprehensive diagnosis, treatment, and rehabilitation of balance and vertigo disorders, further strengthening BMC’s advanced offerings in otolaryngology (ear, nose, throat) and head & neck surgery.
The Balance Lab was officially opened in the presence of Dr. Shamsheer Vayalil, Founder and Chairman of Burjeel Holdings, Mr. John Sunil, Group CEO of Burjeel Holdings, alongside Dr. Mujtaba Ali Khan, CEO of BMC, and other senior officials.
“The opening of our Balance Lab represents a significant step in our ongoing commitment to delivering world-class, patient-centered care. By leveraging cutting-edge technologies and a multidisciplinary approach, we are enhancing the accuracy and precision of diagnoses while redefining the standard of care for individuals affected by balance and vertigo disorders. We are proud to lead the way in innovative healthcare, empowering our clinical teams and elevating the quality of life for every patient we serve with the highest level of expertise and support,” said Mr. John Sunil.