Specialised nursing residency programmes have been launched in the UAE for the first time, with the aim of helping nurses attain clinical specialisation. Approved by the National Institute for Health Specialties (NIHS), the programmes include a residency for fresh graduates, a critical care programme for adults, and one in nursing care for mental health. In cooperation with the Ministry of Health and Prevention (Mohap) and various health and academic authorities, hospitals can now apply for these programmes, marking a significant step towards empowering nursing staff to advance their careers.
The introduction of these residency programmes aligns with the UAE’s goal of building a healthier, more prosperous, and happier society, while contributing to national healthcare goals. The National Strategy for Nursing and Midwifery (Roadmap 2022–2026) aims to enhance the governance of nursing and midwifery professions, improve professional regulatory policies, ensure patient safety, manage the nursing workforce, and support evidence-based research and practices tailored to meet the country’s health needs and priorities.
Undersecretary of Mohap Dr. Mohammed Salim Al Olama highlights the importance of investing in building the nursing specialisation system, as competent Emirati nurses will enhance the quality of life for the community and provide outstanding healthcare services. Emirati nurses are encouraged to take advantage of these new residency programmes to advance their careers, with Dr. Sumaya Mohamed Al Balushi emphasizing the importance of nursing specialisations and the effectiveness of the health system in optimizing resources and achieving inclusive health coverage.
Mohap has provided specifications for licensing in the specialisation system, focusing on clinical training within the educational qualifications required for nursing specialist licensing and updating the list of approved nursing specialisations. Nurses in the UAE can now specialise in a variety of fields, including Adult Health Care Nurse, Anesthesia Nurse, Cardiovascular Care Nurse, Nursing Informatics Nurse, Community Health Care Nurse, Intensive Care Nurse, Diabetes Care Nurse, Emergency Nurse, Infection Control Nurse, Maternal Health Nurse, Neonatal Nurse, Neonatal Intensive Care Nurse, Oncology Nurse, Palliative Care Nurse, Pediatric Nurse, Pediatric Intensive Care Nurse, and Wound Care Nurse.
The importance of investing in building the nursing specialisation system is highlighted, as it will help UAE nationals provide high-quality care services to citizens and residents. With the implementation of these residency programmes, nursing staff, particularly Emiratis, have the opportunity to advance their careers and move towards specialisation, ultimately contributing to the enhancement of the healthcare sector in the UAE. The specialized programmes mark a significant step towards achieving national healthcare goals and building a stronger healthcare workforce in the country.
