American Hospital Dubai (AHD), one of the top private healthcare providers in the Middle East, has joined hands with Nigerian company, RivExcel, to bring high-quality medical services closer to Nigerians. The partnership has led to the opening of two representative offices in Nigeria—one already launched in Lagos and the other expected to open in Abuja by December 2024. This move is part of AHD’s plan to make access to global-standard healthcare easier for Nigerians who often travel abroad for treatment.
The Lagos office, which is located at 33A Aboyade Cole Street, Victoria Island, was officially opened on August 19, 2024. It was a high-level event attended by important dignitaries such as the Consul General of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) in Nigeria, Dr. Abdullah Al-Mandoos; the Lagos State Commissioner for Health, Prof. Akin Abayomi; and the Executive Chairman of RivExcel, Prince Tonye Princewill. The Abuja office, which is currently being set up, is expected to follow the same model as Lagos in delivering healthcare guidance and services.
Established in 1996, American Hospital Dubai is well-known for its 254-bed capacity and over 40 different medical and surgical specialties. The hospital is also recognized for its high standards. All its doctors are either American Board-certified or hold similar international qualifications. It is a member of the Mayo Clinic Care Network and holds several respected accreditations, including those from the Joint Commission International (JCI) and the College of American Pathologists (CAP).
The Lagos and Abuja offices are not hospitals, but they act like healthcare embassies. They will help Nigerians with everything they need to get treatment at AHD in Dubai. This includes booking appointments with specialists, getting medical reports reviewed, arranging visas and flights, and securing accommodation in Dubai. Patients can also have virtual consultations with doctors in Dubai before deciding to travel.
The goal of this initiative is to remove the stress and confusion many Nigerians face when seeking quality medical care abroad. With this partnership, Nigerians can now have a direct link to one of the top hospitals in the UAE, making their journey smoother and more affordable.
Prince Tonye Princewill explained that the Abuja office, when completed, will bring the same benefits as the Lagos office. He said the two offices will make it easier for Nigerians to receive care from Dubai, while also boosting trust and cooperation between the two countries. He also said the offices are part of a larger vision to build strong healthcare connections across Africa.
AHD’s expansion into Nigeria is part of its bigger plan to open 30 offices across Africa and Eastern Europe. This aligns with the UAE’s goal of becoming a major hub for medical tourism. By setting up these offices, AHD is not only promoting its services but also contributing to the development of healthcare in Nigeria.
As part of their activities, the Lagos office will also engage in outreach programmes by organising online training and seminars for Nigerian medical professionals. This will encourage the sharing of knowledge and improve collaboration between Nigerian and Emirati health workers.
Industry observers see this partnership as a positive step in solving the challenge of limited access to quality healthcare in Nigeria. With more Nigerians seeking better healthcare outside the country, this effort may help reduce the number of avoidable medical travels while still giving access to world-class services.
The partnership between American Hospital Dubai and RivExcel is expected to strengthen the bridge between Nigeria and Dubai’s health sector. It offers not just treatment opportunities, but also opens doors for medical education, investment, and long-term collaboration.
