Dubai hospital delivers medicines to patient’s house via drone: Watch here

Dubai saw the completion of the first successful trial of medical delivery via drones at the Dubai Silicon Oasis (DSO), in yet another unique public-private sector partnership that raises the city’s global competitiveness as a hub for advanced technologies and smart applications.

The completion of the trial makes Fakeeh University Hospital, an academic-focused smart healthcare facility based in DSO, the first healthcare provider in the Middle East to leverage drone technology for medication delivery, reported state news agency, WAM.

First successful trial of medication delivery via drones in #Dubai completed at Dubai Silicon Oasis. The trial conducted by Fakeeh University Hospital stands as the first of its kind in the Middle East. @FUHCare pic.twitter.com/sRAsAjkhKI

— Dubai Media Office (@DXBMediaOffice) May 30, 2023

The delivery took place within a 10-kilometre radius, transporting medication from the hospital to a patient’s home in Cedre Villas project, a gated community of luxury villas. It follows a series of year-long trials conducted at DSO, the special economic zone for knowledge and innovation and a member of the Dubai Integrated Economic Zones Authority (DIEZ), in collaboration with the Dubai Future Foundation (DFF) and the Dubai Civil Aviation Authority (DCAA).

Dr Juma Al Matrooshi, director-general of Dubai Silicon Oasis, said: “As a knowledge and innovation hub within the Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan, Dubai Silicon Oasis is renowned for supporting the development and piloting of innovative and smart technology solutions. In line with our role within the ‘Dubai Programme to Enable Drone Transportation’, we are committed to empowering entities from the UAE and abroad to develop and test new drone solutions that boost efficiency and convenience.”

“Behind every successful solution implemented on a large-scale, there are numerous smaller-scale tests and attempts to reach the final stage. Hence, we are keen on providing a conducive environment and the required support for companies to run their trials, understand the circumstances, and complete their offerings.

We congratulate Fakeeh University Hospital on a well-concluded pilot, and we look forward to seeing this initiative rolled-out at DSO,” he added.

Dr Fatih Mehmet Gul, chief executive officer at Fakeeh University Hospital, stated: “We take great pride in being the first in the Middle East to introduce drone delivery of medication at Fakeeh University Hospital at the Dubai Silicon Oasis. Since our establishment, we have consistently embraced technological advancements to provide innovative services.

However, this initiative marks a substantial leap forward in enhancing healthcare accessibility and achieving complete digitalisation. Fakeeh University Hospital has consistently been a leader in incorporating state-of-the-art technology into our everyday operations. We firmly believe that the potential of modern technology is limitless, and this is just the beginning of what future technologies have in store.

In addition to our commitment and dedication, the unwavering support of the Dubai Integrated Economic Zones Authority, the Dubai Future Foundation and the Dubai Civil Aviation Authority has played a key role in realising this initiative.”

The introduction of drone delivery of medicine presents a shift in healthcare accessibility and efficiency. The key benefits of this innovative approach include quick response, enhanced accessibility, reliability and sustainability.

By leveraging drones, Fakeeh University Hospital can now deliver medication promptly to patients, significantly reducing response time and potentially saving lives in critical situations.

Drones also eliminate geographical barriers, allowing patients to receive medication without on ground delays. This ground-breaking solution ensures equitable access to healthcare services for all UAE residents.

Drone delivery also significantly reduces the carbon footprint associated with traditional transportation methods. Additionally, the system incorporates advanced features, including collision avoidance technology and real-time monitoring, which guarantees the secure transportation of medication.

Read: Abu Dhabi to use drones for medical delivery