The key facts
- Seha launched a year-long campaign to engage women in blood donation
- Since 2020, 8,599 UAE female citizens have made 4,022 donations
- Anyone aged 18–65, weighing at least 50 kg and holding an Emirates ID can become a donor
Seha's year-long campaign
Health authorities in the UAE have launched a nationwide campaign aimed at highlighting the role of women in advancing blood donation and encouraging more women to become donors. The initiative was announced by Abu Dhabi Health Services (Seha), part of the PureHealth group; the programme is designed to run for a year, The National reported.
Statistics and goals
According to Seha, since 2020, 8,599 UAE female citizens have registered as blood donors and made 4,022 donations, adding to supplies for transfusions and emergency care. The campaign brings together awareness events for women, educational outreach, community engagement and donor recognition programmes throughout the year. The goal is to raise understanding of voluntary donation and encourage regular participation by women.
Why a diverse donor pool matters
Dr. Aiman Al Zaabi, medical director of Seha's blood bank services, noted that women make an important and growing contribution to voluntary donation. “This campaign offers an opportunity to recognise that contribution and encourage more eligible women to take part,” she said, adding that sustained work through education and recognition is intended to support regular blood donation and strengthen a culture of responsibility in the community. A diverse donor base helps avoid shortages in blood supplies, which are critical during emergencies and seasonal downturns: demand comes from all groups of the population, including women with childbirth complications.
Who can donate blood
Anyone aged 18 to 65, weighing at least 50 kg, in good health and holding an Emirates ID can become a donor. As a general rule, tourists and visitors to the country cannot donate blood.
