Toddler arrives in Dubai for $2.4m medical treatment funded by Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid

A Jordanian infant, Katia Abu Al Saud, has journeyed to Dubai to receive initial medical assessments as part of a $2.4 million medical intervention funded by Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid, the Vice President and Ruler of Dubai. Dubai's Media Office shared visuals of Katia and her family arriving at Dubai International Airport, followed by additional photos of her being welcomed by hospital staff at Al Jalila Children's Hospital.

The condition Katia is being treated for is spinal muscular atrophy (SMA), a rare genetic disorder that impacts nerve cells in the spinal cord. The National had reported previously that Katia's mother, Nour Roudnahal, had sought help for the exorbitant treatment cost. Ms. Roudnahal revealed that the drug Zolgensma, capable of assisting Katia, costs up to $2.4 million. This gene therapy is not available in Jordan.

Katia's diagnosis of SMA was made following an initial observation by a doctor during a routine check-up when she was six months old. Her pediatrician noted that her movements differed from those of other infants of her age. Her family continued to monitor Katia's progress, but her difficulties persisted. Consequently, they conducted further medical tests to ascertain the cause. Once diagnosed with SMA, Katia commenced physiotherapy and medication. However, her mother has since stated that no cure exists for the condition.

Prior to Sheikh Mohammed's benevolent contribution, the family launched an online fundraising campaign for Katia's treatment, which garnered significant support before the emir's generous donation.