Description

On April 10, 1999, the late Sheikh Maktoum Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, then UAE Vice President, Prime Minister, and Ruler of Dubai, issued Supreme Decree No. (5) to establish the Sheikh Hamdan Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Award for Medical Sciences. This award aims to honor scientists worldwide who conduct exceptional medical research benefiting humanity. The Board of Trustees and General Secretariat were formed on May 1, 1999, under the directives of H.H. Sheikh Hamdan Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Deputy Ruler of Dubai and Minister of Finance.

The Sheikh Hamdan Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Award for Medical Sciences is a prestigious accolade from the GCC countries, promoting medical services by recognizing distinguished scientists and professionals in academic, therapeutic, medical, and humanitarian fields globally.

The award underscores the importance of scientific research for the UAE's progress, funding domestic health research through a pioneering program. It has gained international acclaim, recognized by leading researchers and observers, reflecting the foundation's global reputation and high scientific credibility.

Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan (1918–2004) was an Emirati leader, credited with founding the United Arab Emirates. He governed the Eastern Region before becoming Abu Dhabi's ruler in 1966 and later the UAE's first president until his passing in 2004. Revered as the "Father of the Nation," he played a pivotal role in uniting the seven emirates. Zayed succeeded his brother as Abu Dhabi's ruler after a peaceful coup in 1966.