Dr. George Matthew, an 84-year-old UAE citizen with Indian roots, has been honored by having a street in Abu Dhabi named after him. He has dedicated nearly six decades to the healthcare sector in the emirate and has played a pivotal role in shaping the healthcare system. Dr. Matthew was the first doctor to work in a government hospital in Al Ain and has witnessed the transformation of the country’s medical landscape. His contributions have been recognized through the naming of George Matthew Street near Sheikh Shakhbout Medical City as part of the ‘Honouring UAE’s Visionaries: Commemorative Streets’ project by the Department of Municipalities and Transport. This initiative aims to show appreciation for individuals who have made a significant impact on the nation’s development.
Arriving in the UAE in 1967, Dr. Matthew has seen the country evolve from its early days with limited infrastructure and medical facilities. Inspired by the late Sheikh Zayed, the father of the nation, he dedicated himself to serving the people and improving healthcare services. Despite initially planning to move to the US, Dr. Matthew was persuaded by a friend’s description of Al Ain’s beauty and eventually settled in the country. His successful application to become Al Ain’s first government doctor led to the opening of the first clinic with Sheikh Zayed’s blessing, marking the beginning of his impactful career in the UAE healthcare sector.
Throughout his tenure, Dr. Matthew held several top posts, including medical director of the Al Ain region in 1972 and health authority consultant in 2001. His dedication and expertise in the field of medicine have made him a valuable source of knowledge for the community. Dr. Matthew’s contributions have not gone unnoticed, as he was granted UAE citizenship in 2004 and received the Abu Dhabi Awards in 2018 for his exceptional service. His commitment to serving the people and his continuous efforts to improve healthcare services highlight his passion for making a difference in the lives of others.
Having treated injuries in makeshift conditions and witnessing the country’s history unfold, Dr. Matthew’s memories are intertwined with the UAE’s journey of development. His encounters with Sheikh Zayed and the royal family have left a lasting impact on his career, inspiring him to further his education and training in medical management. With Sheikh Zayed’s support, he pursued specialized studies in England and later at Harvard, enhancing his skills and expertise in the field. Dr. Matthew’s dedication has earned him respect and admiration from the community as he continues to work alongside other leading experts in the private health department under the Presidential Affairs.
Dr. George Matthew’s unwavering commitment to serving the country and its citizens is evident in his dedication to his work and his willingness to continue making a difference. Despite his age, he remains actively involved in the healthcare sector, providing valuable insights and guidance to healthcare workers. His advice to others working in the UAE reflects his ethos of sincerity and hard work, emphasizing the importance of dedication and commitment to achieving success. As a visionary in the healthcare sector, Dr. Matthew’s legacy continues to inspire future generations and serve as a testament to the impact one individual can have on a nation’s development.
