{
  "id": 18503202,
  "title": "UAE introduces new benefits to protect organ donors and their families from financial burdens",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/11/06/uae-introduces-new-benefits-to-protect-organ-donors-and-their-18503202",
  "topic": "business",
  "section": "Business",
  "published": "2026-11-06T12:29:01.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "The National Business",
    "slug": "the-national-business",
    "url": "https://www.thenationalnews.com/news/uae/2026/11/06/uae-introduces-new-benefits-to-protect-organ-donors-and-their-families-from-financial-burdens/"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "The United Arab Emirates has unveiled a new set of benefits to safeguard organ donors and their families from financial hardships. Under Ministerial Decision No. 91 of 2026, issued by the Ministry of Health and Prevention, donors will receive extensive medical and insurance coverage, ensuring they do not face any financial setbacks or burdens. The legislation also provides assistance for donors who need to take work leave for recovery, along with support for travel, lodging, and home care. The principle of \"financial neutrality\" is central to the decision, aiming to prevent donors and their families from encountering any financial losses or expenses due to the donation process. Healthcare coverage must remain intact for any medical conditions that may arise from the donation. It is explicitly stated that these benefits are not a form of payment for donated organs or tissues, and measures are in place to prevent any perception of organ trafficking or remuneration for donation.\n\nDr Bashir Sankari, transplant director at the Integrated Surgical Institute at Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi, highlighted the significance of this development. \"This ministerial decree marks a significant milestone in advancing organ donation in the UAE and reinforces the country's commitment to supporting donors and their families,\" he remarked. The Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi has conducted 1,214 organ transplants since its transplant program began in 2017, with 200 in 2026 alone, underscoring the importance of strengthening the country's organ donation system. Dr Sankari emphasized how the new measures can alleviate financial and logistical burdens, removing barriers and providing comfort to donors and their families. The decision also calls on various organizations, including charitable groups, health authorities, insurance schemes, and community entities, to contribute to programs that support donors and their families. The National Centre for Regulation of Human Organ and Tissue Donation and Transplantation will oversee the creation of these programs and implementing procedures in coordination with relevant authorities. Support will be tailored to individual circumstances, with priority cases identified and medical and ethical requirements remaining in effect. In addition to financial support, the framework extends to family members of deceased donors, offering psychological and social support programs. Donors and their relatives may also receive certificates of appreciation, honorary medals, and official letters of thanks. Dr Sankari noted that this legislation builds upon the progress already made in transplantation in the UAE, aiming to encourage greater participation in organ donation and ultimately offer renewed hope to more patients in need of transplants.",
  "summary": "Organ donors in the UAE will be entitled to comprehensive medical and insurance coverage under a new ministerial decision aimed at ensuring that those who give organs to save lives do not suffer financial losses or face unnecessary burdens. Ministerial Decision No. 91 of 2026, issued by the Ministry of Health and Prevention , also provides for support for organ donors who need to take time off…",
  "key_points": [],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}