The Dubai Health Authority (DHA) has accorded initial approval to Yas Healthcare, a subsidiary of Das Holding, to establish the UAE’s first proton therapy center in Dubai, marking a historic milestone in the advancement of cancer care in the region.
The state-of-the-art proton therapy center is expected to be completed by late 2028, with construction slated to start in early 2026. The construction work related to the project is scheduled to begin in early 2026 and the facility is expected to be operational by the end of 2028.
New proton therapy center to advance cancer treatment options
It will be the first dedicated center in the UAE to offer proton therapy, a highly advanced and precise form of radiation therapy that targets tumors with exceptional accuracy while sparing healthy tissue. The treatment is especially effective for pediatric cancers and tumors located near sensitive organs.
Dr. Alawi Alsheikh-Ali, Director-General of Dubai Health Authority, stated that, “Under the visionary leadership of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister, and Ruler of Dubai, and HH Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Defense, and Chairman of The Executive Council of Dubai, we are committed to positioning Dubai as a global leader in healthcare. This proton therapy center will enhance patient care, offering world-class, patient-centered treatment and improving access to specialized care that ensures better outcomes.”
“This groundbreaking technology will advance cancer treatment options for our community and reinforce Dubai’s goal of ranking among the top 10 cities globally for healthy life expectancy. It also strengthens Dubai’s position as a key destination for advanced medical care and innovation, in line with the National Strategy for Wellbeing 2031, Dubai Social Agenda 33, and the Dubai Economic Agenda D33,” Dr. Alsheikh-Ali added.
The new proton therapy center will be developed in strategic collaboration with the National Cancer Centre Singapore (NCCS), one of Asia’s leading authorities in oncology. NCCS will serve as the project consultant, bringing global clinical and technical expertise to the design and implementation of the facility.
Dr. Mohamad Zaki, Medical Director and General Manager of Yas Healthcare, said that, “Global data indicates a rising number of cancer diagnoses, particularly among younger patients. Proton therapy provides a treatment option with fewer side effects and lower toxicity for certain cancer types. The Yas Proton Therapy Center aims to improve accessibility and reduce costs by offering this treatment closer to home.”
