Genetics and Leadership: Maryam Matar’s Journey to Transform Public Health

Maryam Matar’s name makes one think of trailblazing public health initiatives in the UAE. She is the first female Emirati to hold the position of Director-General at the Government of Dubai, and her life has been a sacrifice to work for the betterment of healthcare among her people. She single-handedly designed inspiring outreach programs, like the UAE Free of Thalassemia campaign, to face genetic diseases and generate awareness about public health issues. Serving not-for-profit organizations like the UAE Genetic Diseases Association and the UAE Down Syndrome Association, Maryam is helping to build the future of healthcare in her region.

As a testament to Maryam Matar’s incredible career, revealing passion for public service and devotion to medical science, she was the first Emirati woman to serve as Director-General in Dubai’s government at the time of birth in 1975. Further training in the H.H. Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Program for Leadership Development further polished Maryam’s leadership skills. The work as undersecretary at the Ministry of Health, under her belt in 2006, marked the next rung on the ladder toward her historic appointment as Director-General of the Community Development Authority in 2008.

The author of this story is Maryam, the founder and chairperson of the UAE Genetic Diseases Association, who strove to put all efforts into prevention and health education about genetic diseases. Focused on an eradication mission for hereditary diseases like thalassemia, Alzheimer’s, and autism, this non-profit thus plays an integral role in the early detection and screening of these and other conditions. Public education and innovative healthcare solutions drive a mission that protects generations from preventable genetic diseases.

One of her most effective endeavours was the “Free UAE of Thalassemia” by 2012 campaign. Thalassemia is a severe hereditary blood disorder widespread in the Gulf region, affecting thousands of families. Using general public education, preparation for early genetic testing among couples, and more access to healthcare services, Maryam’s campaign sharply reduced the number of new cases. Success in this particular project is, therefore, an adequate testimonial to her vision of preventive healthcare to reduce genetic disorders’ incidence.

Maryam has more extensive experience than thalassemia. She has led projects in conducting genetic screening that encompass breast cancer and Alzheimer’s disease among the Emirati populations, and indeed among key health concerns plaguing the world population at large. In interviews with UAE’s leading media, Gulf News and Khaleej Times, Maryam stressed the importance of early screening and genetic counselling to reduce the impact of these diseases.

Maryam is an advocate for women in science. She is a leader in promoting education and participation of Emirati women in STEM disciplines: Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics. She has gained numerous awards and accolades for her work in the field of genetic research. Among them are Arabian Business naming her one of the 100 most powerful Arab women and Islamic Sciences Journal naming her as one of the most influential Muslim female scientists.

Her influence goes further than her clinical contributions. Every day, Maryam’s radio program “Akhirlak” features discussions on public health issues and actual advice to listeners in the UAE. The shutdown also provided her with a voice to communicate some of the unspoken challenges women faced during the pandemic-being restricted from access to care and decision making within healthcare settings.

The influence that Maryam Matar has put in the health system of the UAE is massive and is going to benefit generations to come. She is bringing a culture of preventive health and innovation through her various roles of advocacy, research, and leadership. Yet with her aspirations to be the first Arab woman to win a Nobel Peace Prize and steadfast dedication to cause, she is certainly not too far from reach.

Her passion inspires her women and scientists, a proof that with all that passion and perseverance, barriers can be broken, and actual change will emerge in this world. As Maryam Matar continues with her work mission, she remains pivotal and one of the figures who shape the future of healthcare in the UAE and beyond.