Advocate for M.S. Care and Global Neurology Leader Dr. Ahmed Shatila to Be Honored

Waldwick, NJ, USA and Dubai, UAE — The Celebration of Healthcare Heroes, taking place on the opening night of World Health Expo (WHX) Dubai 2026, will proudly honor Dr. Ahmed Shatila, Consultant Neurologist and Chair of the Neurology Division at Sheikh Shakhbout Medical City (SSMC), for his extraordinary contributions to medicine, advocacy, and patient care. 

Held on February 9, 2026, under the iconic dome of Al Wasl Plaza at Expo City Dubai, the Celebration of Healthcare Heroes brings together healthcare leaders, government officials, and key influencers for an evening dedicated to recognizing those who are shaping the future of healthcare. The event is uniquely designed to inspire students and young people from across the UAE who will be present, offering them the rare opportunity to interact with role models whose lives and careers exemplify courage, purpose, and impact — our real-life superheroes.  

Dr. Shatila’s journey is one of remarkable resilience. Diagnosed with multiple sclerosis at just 21 years old while in his first year of medical school, he transformed personal adversity into a lifelong mission to help and empower others facing the same condition. Living with MS himself, Dr. Shatila chose neurology not only as a specialty, but as a calling — dedicating his life to understanding the disease from both a medical and human perspective. 

“Once you come to acceptance, you realize it’s not that bad. If you’re not pushed, you’ll never discover what you’re truly capable of,” Dr. Shatila said. “I would tell any young person: you have to challenge yourself. You have to work hard. The easy things are the ones you won’t appreciate, and it’s the things that are not easy, or the adversity you face, that teach you the most about yourself.” 

After completing his medical degree and advanced training at Wayne State University and Detroit Medical Center in the United States, Dr. Shatila moved to the UAE determined to make a difference. At SSMC, he played a pivotal role in establishing a dedicated multiple sclerosis clinic — a space built on empathy and specialized care. Through his leadership, he has emphasized the life-changing importance of early diagnosis, consistent treatment, and emotional support for patients and families alike. 

Beyond clinical care, Dr. Shatila has helped shape the UAE’s healthcare landscape at a national level. As Chair of the Medical Advisory Committee of the National Multiple Sclerosis Society (NMSS), he led the development of the first MS Treatment Guidelines in the UAE, aligning local care with the latest global advancements. His tireless advocacy has raised awareness for neurological disorders and promoted inclusion for people with disabilities. 

In recognition of his compassion, leadership, and unwavering commitment to others, Dr. Shatila was honored by UAE President H.H. Sheikh Mohamed Bin Zayed Al Nahyan with the Abu Dhabi Award.  

Dr. Shatila’s life and work stand as a powerful reminder that from challenge comes strength, and from compassion comes lasting change. 

The Celebration of Healthcare Heroes is hosted by Kallman Worldwide, organizer of the U.S. industry presence at WHX Dubai for 31 years, as part of its CSR initiative, Kallman Foundation. The event is part of the foundation’s broader commitment to inspiring young people around the world to follow their dreams and build the pipeline of future STEM leaders. 

Event Details: 

February 9, 2026 5:30 PM Al Wasl Plaza, Expo City Dubai 

Dr. Shatila was nominated for this award by AmCham Abu Dhabi. AmCham Abu Dhabi's mission is to promote commerce, investment, and goodwill between its membership, the United States of America and the United Arab Emirates.