Advancing Nursing and Midwifery Leadership in the UAE and EMRO Region
- enaeditor
- Jul 22
- 3 min read
A Collaborative Vision for Global Health
The United Arab Emirates (UAE), in collaboration with the WHO Eastern Mediterranean Regional Office (EMRO), is playing a pivotal role in elevating nursing and midwifery leadership both regionally and globally. Through the UAE’s National Strategy for Nursing and Midwifery (2022–2026) and active participation in EMRO initiatives, the UAE is setting a benchmark for nursing leadership that resonates across the EMRO region and the wider international community.
UAE’s National Strategy and Leadership Framework
At the heart of the UAE’s efforts is the National Strategy for Nursing and Midwifery (2022–2026), spearheaded by the Ministry of Health and Prevention in partnership with the National Nursing Committee and the Emirates Nursing Association (ENA). This strategy focuses on governance, workforce development, legislation, education, and high-quality care delivery, aligning closely with WHO’s Global Strategic Directions for Nursing and Midwifery 2030.
The National Nursing Committee provides strategic oversight and ensures policies are adapted to meet emerging health challenges. Meanwhile, the Emirates Nursing Association drives professional development, advocacy, and capacity-building among nurses, empowering them as leaders and innovators.
EMRO’s Regional Leadership and Support
The WHO EMRO office acts as a critical regional partner, supporting countries including the UAE in implementing strategies that strengthen nursing and midwifery leadership. EMRO’s collaboration with the UAE amplifies efforts to:
Standardize nursing education and competencies across member states,
Promote workforce planning and retention to address shortages,
Foster leadership development programs that prepare nurses and midwives to lead health reforms,
Encourage research and innovation tailored to regional health needs,
Enhance policy dialogue on health equity and sustainable health systems.
By working closely with the UAE’s National Nursing Committee and ENA, EMRO ensures that regional policies are harmonized with global best practices while being sensitive to cultural and systemic contexts.
Global Engagement and Impact
Dr. Sumaya Alblooshi - ENA President, Head of National Committee at Ministry of Health and prevention stated that: the UAE’s active participation in international platforms such as the 78th World Health Assembly (WHA78), alongside EMRO, the International Council of Nurses (ICN), and WHO leadership, demonstrates a united front in advancing nursing leadership worldwide. The discussions focused on key priorities such as health workforce policy, crisis management, equity in health, and digital transformation in healthcare delivery.
Together, the UAE and EMRO champion the vision of nursing and midwifery as not only frontline caregivers but as transformational leaders advocates for policy change, innovators in practice, and key players in achieving universal health coverage.
In conclusion, I am deeply honored to represent both the UAE and the WHO Eastern Mediterranean Regional Office (EMRO) in advancing nursing and midwifery leadership on the global stage. In confronting today’s complex health challenges, nurses and midwives transcend the role of caregivers—they are visionary leaders, innovators, and advocates driving transformative change. From the implementation of the UAE’s National Strategy for Nursing and Midwifery (2022–2026) to our expanding collaboration across the EMRO region, we are committed to establishing nursing leadership as the norm rather than the exception.
I would like to extend my sincere gratitude to the Ministry of Health of Romania and the Order of Nurses (OAMGMAMR) for their unwavering support in championing this vision and uniting global nursing voices. Together, we stand in solidarity to uphold the Global Strategic Directions for Nursing and Midwifery 2030.
It was a distinct privilege to engage with Government Chief Nursing Officers at WHO and representatives from the International Council of Nurses during a dedicated side event at the 78th World Health Assembly (#WHA78). Our conversations were inspiring and focused on strengthening nursing leadership, shaping effective health workforce policies, and advancing equity in global health. I am proud to stand alongside global leaders who share a commitment to amplifying the voice of nursing and shaping the future of healthcare worldwide.
