United Arab Emirates gifts Uganda state-of-the-art specialized hospital in Entebbe

The Governments of Uganda and United Arab Emirates have officially launched the construction of the 100-bed Emirates Specialty Hospital in Entebbe, a major health infrastructure project aimed at strengthening specialized medical care in Uganda and across the region.

The groundbreaking ceremony was officiated by Sheikh Shakhboot Bin Nahyan Al Nahyan and Uganda’s State Minister for Health in charge of General Duties, Anifa Kawooya.

The state-of-the-art facility will specialize in ear, nose and throat (ENT) treatment, ophthalmology (eye care), maxillofacial surgery and other specialized head surgeries. Construction is expected to be completed within one year, with the hospital projected to be handed over by May 2027.

Speaking during the ceremony, Diana Atwine said the facility represents a significant boost to Uganda’s specialized healthcare system and will serve patients from across the African continent.

“This 100-bed hospital will cater for specialized care in ear, nose and throat (ENT), ophthalmology, maxillofacial surgeries and other specialized head surgeries,” Dr. Atwine said. “The facility is expected to be completed and handed over by May 2027.”

She added that the hospital is a special gift from the UAE Government through President Yoweri Museveni and is expected to handle referrals from across Africa.

The ceremony was also attended by Charles Olaro and Eng. Peter Wafula, among other senior government officials and health sector stakeholders.

Government officials say the new facility will help reduce the number of Ugandans seeking specialized treatment abroad while improving access to advanced surgical and diagnostic services within the country.

The project further highlights growing bilateral cooperation between Uganda and the UAE, particularly in infrastructure development, healthcare and investment partnerships.