The demand for nursing courses in the UAE has significantly increased after the pandemic, with a rise in student enrolments. This surge in interest can be attributed to extensive awareness campaigns, the country’s push for medical tourism, golden visas for nurses, world-class training, attractive pay packages, and additional benefits. The Chief Nursing Officer at Fakeeh University Hospital Dubai, Mohamad Fakih, highlighted that there has been a notable increase in admissions of UAE nationals and residents to nursing professions, with the UAE being recognized as a premier healthcare destination in the region.
Moreover, the country’s emphasis on healthcare as a key pillar for future development has led to efforts to enhance nursing education and training. According to experts in the field, there has been a 200 percent increase in nursing admissions in the UAE over the past three years, both among Emiratis and expatriates. The establishment of a structured framework for nursing education and professional development has further contributed to this growth, with universities like Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Sharjah, and Gulf Medical University offering nursing courses.
Traditionally, nurses were primarily associated with hospitals, but their role has evolved to encompass various settings such as community services, home healthcare services, and schools. Despite the significant shortage of nurses worldwide and in the UAE, efforts are being made to expand the role of nurses and attract more individuals to the profession. Emiratis are increasingly recognizing the value of education and training in health professions, leading to more individuals pursuing nursing and other health-related careers.
Returning to the profession after a hiatus, Bindu Baby, Assistant Chief Nursing Officer at Thumbay University Hospital, shared her experience of rejoining the nursing profession after a brief career break. Her journey as a nurse over two decades ago was marked by a mix of nerves, excitement, and pride, with personal challenges on the home front leading to a temporary pause in her career. However, the organization’s support and encouragement ultimately led her to return to nursing, where she found opportunities for growth and development in supervisory roles.
Overall, the increasing demand for nursing courses in the UAE can be attributed to various factors such as government support, attractive job prospects, and the country’s reputation as a healthcare hub. With a focus on enhancing nursing education and training, the UAE is poised to meet the growing demands for a skilled healthcare workforce, including nurses. The evolving role of nurses in different settings and the recognition of the value of healthcare professions among Emiratis further contribute to the increasing interest in nursing careers in the country.
