Al Qasimi Hospital for Women, Birth, and Children in Sharjah has been awarded the “Child-Friendly and Family-Friendly” certification by the Sharjah Health Authority, a recognition that underscores the institution’s commitment to pediatric care standards. The designation, announced on June 15, 2026, follows a multi-stage evaluation process assessing clinical practices, patient safety, and family engagement protocols, according to a statement from the authority.
What Criteria Define a “Child-Friendly and Family-Friendly” Hospital?
The certification aligns with global benchmarks set by the World Health Organization (WHO) and the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), which emphasize holistic care for children and their families. Key criteria include access to specialized pediatric services, trauma-informed care training for staff, and facilities designed to reduce anxiety in young patients. Sharjah Health Authority officials confirmed that Al Qasimi Hospital met 92% of the 120-point evaluation framework, surpassing the 85% threshold required for certification.
Sharjah Health Authority’s certification guidelines highlight metrics such as infection control rates, parent education programs, and post-discharge follow-up systems. The hospital’s 24/7 neonatal intensive care unit and dedicated playrooms for pediatric patients were specifically noted as standout features.
How Does This Certification Impact Local Healthcare?
The recognition positions Al Qasimi Hospital as a regional leader in pediatric care, potentially influencing policy reforms across the UAE. Dr. Layla Al-Mansouri, a healthcare analyst at the Emirates Health Council, explained:
“This certification sets a precedent for integrating family-centered care into public health frameworks. It could drive other institutions to adopt similar standards, especially in areas with growing populations of young children.”
Sharjah’s healthcare sector has seen a 15% increase in pediatric demand over the past five years, according to a 2025 report by the American University of Beirut’s Health Policy Center. The hospital’s certification may ease strain on regional facilities by offering a specialized alternative for complex cases.
What Are the Hospital’s Long-Term Goals?
Al Qasimi Hospital, established in 1998, has long prioritized maternal and child health. The new certification complements its existing ISO 9001 quality management accreditation and its role as a training site for UAE medical residents. Hospital director Dr. Omar Al-Ketbi stated:
“This award reaffirms our mission to create a safe, compassionate environment where children and families feel supported. We plan to expand our telemedicine services for rural areas within the next year.”
The hospital’s 2025 annual report [PDF] showed a 20% rise in patient satisfaction scores, with 94% of families reporting “high confidence” in the care provided. These numbers align with broader UAE initiatives to improve healthcare accessibility, as outlined in the National Health Strategy 2030.
Why This Matters for Families in the UAE
The certification addresses a critical gap in the UAE’s healthcare landscape. While the country has 120 hospitals, only 18 specialize in pediatric care, according to data from Gulf News. Families in Sharjah and neighboring emirates now have a locally accredited option for high-complexity cases, reducing reliance on Dubai or Abu Dhabi facilities.
Parents like Aisha Al-Marri, whose child was treated at the hospital last year, described the experience as “transformative.”
“The staff explained every step, and there were toys and books to keep my daughter calm. It felt like they truly cared about her well-being, not just her medical chart.”
What’s Next for Child-Friendly Healthcare in the Region?
The Sharjah Health Authority plans to introduce a regional certification network by 2027, aiming to standardize pediatric care across the UAE. This move could streamline cross-emirate referrals and ensure consistent quality. However, challenges remain, including staffing shortages and the need for advanced medical equipment. A 2026 World Bank report noted that 30% of UAE hospitals face pediatric specialist shortages, particularly in rural areas.
For now, Al Qasimi Hospital’s achievement
