George Matthew Street: Abu Dhabi road named after Indian-origin doctor serving since 1967
Dubai: In a sincere tribute, a street in Abu Dhabi has been named after Dr George Matthew, an 84-year-old doctor with Indian roots, who has contributed significantly to the Emirate's healthcare sector.
According to a PTI report, the Department of Municipalities and Transport (DMT) has named a road in Abu Dhabi after Dr George Matthew to recognise his contributions as part of its “Honouring UAE’s Visionaries: Commemorative Streets” project, which aims to honour individuals who have greatly contributed to the nation’s development.
The road near Sheikh Shakbooth Medical City in Al Mafraq will now be known as George Matthew Street.
Reflecting on his journey, Dr Matthew said, “When I first arrived in the UAE, the infrastructure was still evolving. Inspired by the late HH Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the Father of the Nation, I dedicated myself to helping the people. I am deeply grateful that my efforts have been recognised.” Dr Matthew arrived in the UAE in 1967 at the age of 26. Initially preparing to move to the US, he was persuaded by a missionary friend’s description of Al Ain’s beauty to stay.
His application as Al Ain's first government doctor was accepted, marking the inauguration of the first clinic under the patronage of Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the late Father of the Nation.
Starting his service as a General Practitioner, Dr Matthew, affectionately called Matyous (Emirati pronunciation of Mathew) by the locals, witnessed and contributed to the growth of modern medicine in the UAE.
He held several key positions, including Medical Director of Al Ain Region in 1972 and Health Authority Consultant in 2001. His contributions significantly advanced healthcare services in the emirate and promoted a modern medical culture in the country.
Dr Matthew went to England to learn management of tropical diseases, and later to Harvard for specialised studies in hospital management.
His commitment to education and professional development has been instrumental in shaping the healthcare landscape of the UAE. He played a vital role in educating and training healthcare workers, and his dedication earned him the trust and admiration of his colleagues and the community, news agency PTI reported.
Known for his dedication and expertise, Dr Matthew has been a valuable source of medical knowledge for the Al Ain community.
In recognition of his service, the UAE granted Dr Matthew and his family citizenship 10 years ago.
Dr Matthew continues to work in the Private Health department alongside Dr Abdul Rahim Jaafar, another leading healthcare expert in the country.
Expressing his gratitude, Dr Matthew said, “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.” Dr Matthew grew up in Thumpamon, Pathanamthitta, in Kerala, and graduated with an MBBS in 1965 from Trivandrum Medical College.
He relocated to the UAE with his wife, Valsa, and their daughter also serves in the government sector.
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