A road in the United Arab Emirates capital Abu Dhabi has been named after an 84-year-old Indian-origin doctor, a tribute to his significant contribution to the country’s health sector.
The Department of Municipality and Transport (DMT) has named a street in Abu Dhabi after Dr George Mathew to recognise his contributions under the “Honouring the UAE’s Visionaries: Commemorative Streets” project, which aims to honour individuals who have made significant contributions to the country’s development.
The road near the Sheikh Shakbooth Medical City in Al Mafraq will now be known as George Mathew Street.
Reflecting on his journey, Dr Mathew said, “When I first arrived in the UAE, infrastructure was being developed. Inspired by the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the Father of the Nation, I dedicated myself to helping people. I am very grateful that my efforts have been recognised.” Dr Mathew arrived in the UAE in 1967 at the age of 26. Initially planning to move to the US, he was convinced to stay after a missionary friend described the beauty of Al Ain.
His application for the position of Al Ain’s first government doctor was successful, resulting in the opening of the first clinic with the blessing of Sheikh Zayed.
Having begun his service as a general practitioner, Dr Mathew, fondly called Mattias (the Emirati pronunciation of Matthew) by the locals, witnessed and contributed to the development of modern medicine in the UAE.
He held several key positions, including medical director of the Al Ain region in 1972 and health authority adviser in 2001. His contributions significantly upgraded healthcare services in the emirate and promoted a modern medical culture in the country.
Dr. Matthews went to England to study the management of tropical diseases, and later went to Harvard for special studies in hospital management.
His commitment to education and professional development has played a key role in shaping the UAE’s healthcare landscape. He played a key role in educating and training healthcare workers, and his dedication earned him the trust and admiration of his colleagues and the community.
Known for his dedication and expertise, Dr Matthew has been a valuable source of medical knowledge for the Al Ain community.
Recognising his service, the UAE granted citizenship to Dr Mathew and his family 10 years ago.
Dr Mathew is working in the private health department along with Dr Abdul Rahim Jaffer, another leading health expert of the country.
Expressing his gratitude, Dr Mathew said, “I am ready to do whatever I can for the country and its citizens as long as I live. I pray that God gives me more time to serve.” Dr Mathew grew up in Thumpamon, Pathanamthitta, Kerala and obtained his MBBS degree from Trivandrum Medical College in 1965.
After marriage, he moved to UAE with his wife Valsa. His daughter also works in the government sector. PTI Corr GSP AKJ GSP
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