Canadian University Dubai (CUD) will lead three pioneering projects funded by the Dubai Future Foundation (DFF) Research, Development, and Innovation (RDI) Program, advancing technology-driven solutions in healthcare. These projects will enhance diagnostic and therapeutic tools, improve decision-making systems, and position the UAE as a leader in health innovation.
Canadian University Dubai Healthcare Innovation Targets Dementia Detection
The university’s School of Engineering, Applied Science and Technology has secured two grants focused on diagnostics and research technologies.
The first project, led by Prof. Firuz Kamalov in collaboration with the Abu Dhabi School of Management and the University of Huddersfield, will develop an Explainable Artificial Intelligence (AI) system for early dementia detection. The initiative aims to transform dementia care by providing earlier diagnosis, guiding clinical decisions, and supporting families with actionable insights.
Prof. Kamalov explained that the system could “significantly improve patient outcomes by delivering a more personalised, data-driven approach to dementia diagnosis and care.”
Advanced Volume Electron Microscopy Research
Another research initiative in the same school, led by Dr. Haythem El-Messiry alongside teams from Shandong University and Mohamed bin Zayed University of Artificial Intelligence, will develop high-precision workflows for Volume Electron Microscopy (VEM).
VEM enables researchers to visualise 3D ultrastructures of organisms at nanometre resolution, bridging the gap between cell and tissue biology. The project aims to create scalable, fast, and robust VEM image-processing workflows that will accelerate biological research and support advancements in health sciences.
Building a UAE Health Technology Assessment System
The third DFF-funded project, based in the School of Health Sciences and Psychology, will focus on creating a Health Technology Assessment (HTA) System for the UAE.
Led by Dr. Mohammed AlKhaldi, with contributions from Dr. Wissam Ghash, McGill University (Canada), and the University of Bonn (Germany), the initiative will integrate AI and web-based tools to improve evidence-based healthcare decision-making. The system will streamline evaluations of health technology value and reimbursement, digitising healthcare systems to benefit multiple sectors.
Supporting the UAE’s Global Healthcare Ambition
CUD Provost Dr. Adam Fenech emphasised the importance of these grants, stating:
“These awards highlight Canadian University Dubai’s leadership in health research and innovation across the UAE and beyond. With Dubai Future Foundation and our global partners, we are addressing some of healthcare’s most pressing challenges and setting a benchmark for global impact.”
These three projects reinforce the UAE’s vision to become a world leader in healthcare and wellbeing, showcasing Canadian University Dubai healthcare innovation as a driver of global change.
Learn more at:
Further Reading:
- Canadian University Dubai to Host Global Cumulus 2026: A Future-Defining Summit in Regenerative Design
- Canadian University Dubai Celebrates Class of ‘Thank You Sheikha Hind’ at 14th Graduation Ceremony
- Canadian University Dubai Career Fair & Networking Event connects student talent with industry
- Canadian University Dubai launches BSc in Power and Renewable Energy Engineering
- Canadian University Dubai researcher joins WHO initiative to reduce maternal deaths
- Canadian University Dubai students create innovations to tackle sustainability challenges
- Canadian University Dubai partners with Dubai Holding Entertainment in ‘Shelter of Inclusivity’
- Canadian University Dubai graduate appointed President of UAE Operations at Crypto.com
- Canadian University Dubai alumni reveal how higher education fuelled professional success
- Canadian University Dubai students develop award-winning taxi management system