UAE (Commonwealth Union)_ In a heartfelt tribute to his remarkable service spanning six decades, the UAE capital of Abu Dhabi has honored Dr. George Matthew, an 84-year-old Indian-origin doctor, by naming a prominent street after him. Accordingly, the Department of Municipalities and Transport (DMT) initiated this gesture as part of its “Honoring UAE’s Visionaries: Commemorative Streets” project, aimed at recognizing individuals pivotal to the nation’s progress. The newly named George Matthew Street, located near Sheikh Shakbooth Medical City in Al Mafraq, stands as a testament to Dr. Matthew’s enduring legacy in the emirate’s healthcare sector.
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Reflecting on the honor bestowed upon him, Dr. Matthew expressed deep gratitude, emphasizing his initial arrival in the UAE in 1967 amidst budding infrastructure development. Inspired by the visionary leadership of the late HH Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, Dr. Matthew devoted himself to the welfare of the people, giving up plans to migrate to the US after being captivated by Al Ain’s beauty as described by a missionary friend. Accordingly, his appointment as Al Ain’s inaugural government doctor marked the inception of his profound impact, establishing the emirate’s first clinic under the auspices of Sheikh Zayed.
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Beginning as a General Practitioner, Dr. Matthew swiftly became an integral figure in shaping modern medicine in the UAE. Known affectionately as “Matyous” by locals, he ascended to pivotal roles, including Medical Director of Al Ain Region in 1972 and subsequently as a Health Authority Consultant in 2001. His leadership and expertise catalyzed advancements in healthcare services, fostering a culture of contemporary medical practices across the nation. Driven by a commitment to continuous learning, Dr. Matthew pursued specialized studies in England focusing on tropical diseases management and later at Harvard in hospital management. His dedication to education and professional development bolstered the UAE’s healthcare landscape, mentoring numerous healthcare professionals and earning widespread respect within the community.
Acknowledging his invaluable contributions, the UAE granted Dr. Matthew and his family citizenship a decade ago, underscoring his status as a cherished member of the nation. Despite his illustrious career, Dr. Matthew remains actively engaged in the Private Health sector alongside esteemed colleagues like Dr. Abdul Rahim Jaafar, furthering his dedication to service. Born in Thumpamon, Pathanamthitta in Kerala, Dr. Matthew earned his MBBS degree from Trivandrum Medical College in 1965 before embarking on his journey to the UAE with his wife, Valsa, where their daughter presently serves in the government sector. Accordingly, his unwavering commitment to the UAE and its citizens is evident in his earnest words: “I am ready to do whatever I can for the country and its citizens as long as I live. I pray that God will give me more time to serve.”
Furthermore, Dr. George Matthew’s legacy is not merely etched in street names or accolades but resonates deeply within the fabric of the UAE’s healthcare system. His story epitomizes the UAE’s principles of embracing diversity and honoring those who contribute selflessly to the nation’s prosperity. As his journey continues, Dr. Matthew remains a beacon of inspiration, embodying the values of dedication, compassion, and excellence in the healthcare system that define the UAE’s forward trajectory.
