White Coat Ceremony 2026: GMU welcomes global cohort, launches pioneering veterinary program

Gulf Medical University (GMU) celebrated the White Coat Ceremony 2026, marking a significant milestone in its history. The event took place at Thumbay Grounds in Ajman, witnessing the arrival of a global cohort of students from 115 nationalities. Dr. Thumbay Moideen, the Founder President of the Thumbay Group, was the Chief Guest for the ceremonies.

The ceremony signaled the university's standing as one of the finest medical universities in the world. Professor Manda Venkatramana, the Chancellor of GMU, reminded the new students that a white coat does not equate to being a clinician. Instead, he emphasized the importance of curiosity, honesty, and kindness in their future careers.

Various disciplines, including Dentistry, Pharmacy, Nursing, Physiotherapy, and more, participated in the ceremony. The university's innovative approach integrates human, animal, and environmental health, teaching and practicing them as a single system. This integrated approach has been a part of GMU's vision for years, with students moving between disciplines early on.

The first veterinary white coat ceremony at GMU took place under the leadership of Dr. Kaltham Ali Kayaf, the Director of Animal Health and Development at the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment. The university's teaching network includes Thumbay University Hospital, Thumbay Rehabilitation Hospital, Thumbay Labs, and the wider Thumbay Healthcare system.

With these facilities, GMU provides early clinical exposure, simulation-based training, and research mentoring to its students. The university aims to be a prominent player in healthcare education in the region, and its progress is evident in the diverse range of programs it offers. For more information, visit gmu.ac.ae.