In honor of an 84-year-old physician with Indian ancestry and his noteworthy contributions to the nation's health system, a road in the capital city of Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, has been named after Dr. George Matthew.
In recognition of Dr. George Matthew's contributions, the Department of Municipalities and Transport (DMT) has renamed a road in Abu Dhabi in his honor. This initiative, "Honouring UAE's Visionaries: Commemorative Streets," aims to honor people who have made significant contributions to the development of the nation.
George Matthew Street will now be the name of the road in Al Mafraq that is close to Sheikh Shakbooth Medical City.
When I first arrived in the UAE, the infrastructure was still evolving. Inspired by the late HH Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the Father of the Nation, I dedicated myself to helping the people. I am deeply grateful that my efforts have been recognized.
Dr. George Matthew
In 1967, Dr. Matthew, at 26 years old, moved to the UAE. His missionary friend's description of Al Ain's beauty convinced him to stay, even though he was initially planning to relocate to the US.
His application to become the first government doctor in Al Ain was accepted, and with Sheikh Zayed's approval, the first clinic was opened.
Dr. Matthew, known by the locals as Matyous (the Emirati pronunciation of Mathew), began his career as a general practitioner, saw firsthand, and contributed to the development of modern medicine in the United Arab Emirates.
He served in a number of important roles, such as Health Authority Consultant in 2001 and Medical Director of Al Ain Region in 1972. His efforts greatly improved the emirate's medical services and encouraged the development of a modern medical culture.
Dr. Matthew first traveled to England to study tropical disease treatment before moving to Harvard to pursue advanced training in hospital management.
The UAE's healthcare system has been greatly influenced by his dedication to professional growth and education. The community and his colleagues respected and trusted him because of his unwavering commitment to education and training healthcare workers.
Dr. Matthew is well-known for his commitment and expertise in medicine, and he has been a great resource for the Al Ain community.
Ten years ago, the UAE granted Dr. Matthew and his family citizenship as a token of appreciation for their contribution.
Alongside Dr. Abdul Rahim Jaafar, another of the nation's top medical specialists, Dr. Matthew continues to work at the Private Health department.
Dr. Matthew expressed his gratitude by saying, “I am ready to do whatever I can for the country and its citizens as long as I live. I pray that God will give me more time to serve.” Dr. Matthew was born and raised in Thumpamon, Pathanamthitta, Kerala, and attended Trivandrum Medical College, where he received his MBBS in 1965.
After being married, he and Valsa relocated to the United Arab Emirates. Their daughter also works in the public sector.
(Input from various sources)
(Rehash/ Priyanka Pandey)
