From scientists, doctors, thinkers and writers, the UAE boasts stellar minds, the architects of continued success
Like someone suffering from farsightedness, we often fail to notice what is closest to us. Our eyes—and with them our minds and senses—are drawn to distant horizons. We admire the scientists, writers, thinkers, and physicians of other nations while overlooking the remarkable talent, intellect, and innovation flourishing in our own backyard. In doing so, we do an injustice not only to these individuals but also to our country, our people, and our own development journey.
This thought came to me as I recently followed the work and public engagement of Professor Humaid Bin Harmal Al Shamsi, the Emirati physician-scientist and leading oncology specialist. What struck me was not only his impressive scientific achievements but also his commitment to public education. Through social media, he has dedicated himself to explaining complex medical concepts in accessible language, making knowledge available to everyone.
He represents the kind of scientist who sees public awareness not as an optional extra, but as an integral part of his mission.
Professor Al Shamsi is far more than a distinguished consultant oncologist. He is one of the researchers who have helped place the United Arab Emirates firmly on the global medical map. As Chief Executive Officer of Burjeel Cancer Institute and President of the Emirates Oncology Society, he has earned international recognition as the first Emirati and Gulf physician to be appointed both a Visiting Professor at Harvard Medical School and a Visiting Scientist at the renowned Dana-FarberCancer Institute. His academic record includes more than 160 peer-reviewed publications in leading international journals, focusing on precision medicine and the application of artificial intelligence in the early detection and treatment of cancer. His accomplishments demonstrate that Emiratis are not merely consumers of scientific knowledge—they are active contributors to its creation and advancement.
Yet Humaid Al Shamsi is not an exception. He is part of a growing constellation of Emirati scientists whose achievements deserve national pride. Among them are Dr Mariam Mattar, a pioneer in genomic medicine; Dr Habiba Al Safar, whose work has laid the foundations for the UAE’s genomic research; engineer Mohammed Al Hammadi, who led the successful delivery of the Barakah Nuclear Energy Plant; Sarah Al Amiri, who carried the UAE’s scientific ambitions into space through the nation’s Mars Mission; and Dr Arif Sultan Al Hammadi, who has played a leading role in advancing research and innovation within world-class academic institutions. Together, they are writing new chapters in the UAE’s story—where scientific excellence is matched by practical achievement and ambitious vision is translated into tangible results.
What distinguishes the Emirati experience is that science has never been viewed as a cultural luxury or an elite pursuit. Instead, it has become a cornerstone of the nation’s development strategy. From the earliest days of the federation, investment in people preceded investment in concrete and steel, based on the conviction that institutions can only thrive when supported by capable, educated, and innovative minds.
It is therefore no surprise that today Emirati physicians lead internationally respected research centres, engineers manage some of the world’s most sophisticated infrastructure projects, and scientists contribute to the global production of knowledge rather than simply benefiting from it. These achievements are the product of a long-term vision that recognised the nation’s greatest wealth lies not only in its natural resources but in its educated and creative people.
Perhaps the time has also come to rethink how we present these role models to society, especially to younger generations. The media, educational institutions, and cultural organisations should celebrate scientific achievement with the same enthusiasm they reserve for success in sports, entertainment, or business. When young Emiratis see one of their own leading research at a prestigious university, developing groundbreaking medical treatments, or contributing to major international scientific projects, they begin to imagine similar possibilities for themselves. Nations need role models not only in politics and public administration but also in laboratories, lecture halls, and research centres, for these are the people who shape the future and give sustainable development its deepest meaning.
These names, and the intellectual capital they represent, complete the equation of the UAE’s progress. Yes, the country has built extraordinary physical landmarks—from Burj Khalifa to Palm Jumeirah, from Al Maktoum International Airport to the Dubai Metro, from Louvre Abu Dhabi to Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi. These iconic projects are visible symbols of national achievement and rightly inspire admiration. Yet standing beside them is another accomplishment that is no less significant, even if less visible: the scientific and human capital being created every day by Emirati minds in laboratories, universities, research centres, and hospitals.
Skyscrapers may define a city’s skyline, but great minds define a nation’s future. Monumental projects give a country an impressive physical presence, while scientists, innovators, and researchers secure its lasting place in the history of human civilisation. If skyscrapers are the face the world sees, then Emirati minds are the foundation upon which that success will continue to grow—ensuring that the UAE is recognised not only on the map of architectural achievement but also on the map of knowledge, innovation, and human progress.
Abdul Hamid Ahmad is a UAE Writer and Columnist
