Authorities in the UAE have reaffirmed the country’s readiness to respond to any emerging health developments, including situations linked to Ebola, as officials reviewed national preparedness systems and precautionary measures already in place.

The update came during a high-level meeting chaired by Ahmed Ali Al Sayegh under the supervision of the National Emergency Crisis and Disaster Management Authority alongside the Ministry of Health and Prevention and strategic partners.

Focus on preparedness and monitoring

Officials reviewed:

• The latest developments related to Ebola
• The UAE’s national surveillance systems
• Existing precautionary health measures
• Coordination between local and international authorities

Authorities stressed that the UAE’s health monitoring and emergency response systems are continuously reviewed and updated in line with international standards and global best practices.

Hospitals and medical teams remain ready

NCEMA and MoHAP said precautionary monitoring measures continue to be implemented across the country as part of the UAE’s proactive public health strategy.

They added that healthcare facilities and medical teams remain fully prepared to respond efficiently to any health developments if required.

The UAE has consistently invested in strengthening:

• Communicable disease response systems
• Emergency preparedness plans
• Integrated healthcare coordination
• Public health awareness initiatives

Authorities urge residents to rely on official information

Officials also called on the public to avoid sharing unverified information online, stressing the importance of relying only on official sources for updates related to public health matters.

The authorities said community awareness and responsible information sharing remain essential components in protecting public health and preventing unnecessary panic.

While no emergency has been announced, the meeting reflects the UAE’s ongoing approach of preparing early, monitoring developments closely and maintaining readiness for a wide range of public health scenarios.

The UAE is preparing for one of its biggest healthcare transformations yet after President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan directed the adoption of a comprehensive national healthcare system covering citizens across all emirates.

The new framework includes a fully integrated national health insurance scheme designed to guarantee access to medical care and health services for every citizen.

New era for healthcare

Officials said the move reflects the UAE leadership’s long-term vision of building an advanced healthcare sector focused on:

• Universal healthcare access
• Preventive medicine
• Digital transformation
• Innovation
• Sustainable health services

The initiative aims to create a fully integrated healthcare model capable of improving efficiency, strengthening sector readiness and ensuring healthcare sustainability for future generations.

Focus on prevention and innovation

According to authorities, the system is designed around international best practices and modern healthcare standards, with strong emphasis on:

• Public health
• Smart digital health platforms
• Long-term health outcomes
• Resource efficiency across all emirates

Health is a national priority

Ahmed bin Ali Al Sayegh, Minister of Health and Prevention, described the directive as part of a national vision placing human health and quality of life at the centre of the country’s development journey.

He said the UAE continues advancing healthcare systems built on:

• Prevention
• Sustainability
• Innovation
• Expanded access to medical services

Integrated healthcare 

Officials also highlighted that the UAE already operates through a strong federal and local healthcare model supported by:

• Advanced medical infrastructure
• Connected digital healthcare systems
• Ongoing investment in healthcare quality and accessibility

The new healthcare system is expected to further strengthen integration between health services while improving resilience and long-term care outcomes for citizens at every stage of life.

The UAE has introduced a new national guide aimed at improving the quality of food and beverages available in schools.

The National Guide for Food and Beverages in the School Environment is designed to help schools, suppliers, and service providers offer healthier and more nutritious options to students throughout the day.

Officials say the guide focuses on building healthy eating habits among students while ensuring they receive the energy needed for academic performance. It promotes balanced, age-appropriate meals that support physical growth, improve concentration, and boost overall learning outcomes.

The framework also sets clear standards for food safety, preparation, and storage, while defining responsibilities for schools, local authorities, and food suppliers. It applies to all educational institutions, including public and private schools, as well as centres for People of Determination.

Schools to keep watch

Under the new rules, schools must ensure full compliance with nutrition and hygiene standards, while suppliers are required to meet strict guidelines and maintain valid permits. Parents will also have access to canteen menus, and schools must track and address any food-related complaints.

The guide introduces a structured system for monitoring and enforcement, with local authorities responsible for inspections, compliance checks, and reporting.

A list of banned items has also been outlined to encourage healthier choices. These include sugary drinks, fried foods, chocolates, processed meats, and products containing nuts.

Authorities say the initiative marks a major step toward creating a healthier school environment and supporting long-term student well-being across the UAE.