The UAE has named a road in Abu Dhabi after Dr. George Matthew, an Indian-origin doctor who has made substantial contributions to the country’s healthcare sector. This honor is part of the “Honoring UAE’s Visionaries: Commemorative Streets” project initiated by the Department of Municipalities and Transport (DMT).
The newly named George Matthew Street is located near Sheikh Shakbooth Medical City in Al Mafraq, commemorating Dr. Matthew’s 57-year-long service to the UAE’s healthcare system.
He arrived in the UAE at the age of 26 in 1967. Initially, he prepared to move to the US. However, he was persuaded by a missionary friend’s description of Al Ain’s beauty to stay. His application for a position as Al Ain’s first government doctor was successful, resulting in the opening of the first clinic under Sheikh Zayed’s blessing.
Dr George Matthew started his service as a general practitioner and was affectionately called “Matyous” by the locals and contributed to the growth of modern medicine in the UAE.
Throughout his career, Dr. Matthew held several key positions, including Medical Director of Al Ain Region in 1972 and Health Authority Consultant in 2001. He played a crucial role in advancing healthcare services and promoting modern medical practices in the UAE.
“When I first arrived in the UAE, the infrastructure was still evolving. Inspired by the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, I dedicated myself to helping the people,” Dr. Matthew said, expressing his gratitude for the recognition.
Dr. Matthew’s contributions extend beyond clinical practice. He pursued specialized studies in tropical diseases in England and hospital management at Harvard. He also served as a valuable educator, training healthcare workers and earning the trust of colleagues and the community.
His dedication earned him the privilege of serving the royal family, including the late Sheikh Tahnoon bin Mohammed bin Khalifa Al Nahyan. In recognition of his service, the UAE granted Dr. Matthew and his family citizenship ten years ago.
Dr Matthew said, “It was a great privilege to work under His Highness for 57 years. I believe this recognition is a testament to that relationship.
Originally from Thumpamon, Pathanamthitta in Kerala, India, Dr. Matthew graduated from Trivandrum Medical College in 1963. He continues to work in the Private Health department alongside Dr. Abdul Rahim Jaafar.
(Inputs from ANI)