Emirati Patient Shares Gratitude After Two Decades of UAE-Funded Spinal Treatment in Germany

An Emirati woman who has received 20 years of advanced treatment in Germany for a debilitating spinal condition has expressed her deep gratitude for the UAE-funded support that has sustained her medical journey.

Nouf Al Naqbi, 32, has travelled regularly from the Emirates to Germany to undergo a series of complex medical procedures aimed at improving her mobility. She developed severe scoliosis, a condition that causes the spine to curve, as a child. She is one of 117 Emirati patients currently receiving critical care in Germany, underscoring the strong bilateral ties between the UAE and the European nation. Their care is fully covered by several UAE government bodies, including Abu Dhabi's Department of Health.

While thankful for the assistance, Ms Al Naqbi shared that she has reached her physical limit after a lifetime defined by operating theatres and doctors' rooms. “I’m so tired,” she said. “I’m tired of all the treatment and the pain. I’m grateful to [President] Sheikh Mohamed and all the support I’ve received but I am tired. I don’t want any more surgery.”

Her father, Ali Al Naqbi, stated that the family will never forget the unwavering support they received throughout the treatment process. “We are deeply grateful to President Sheikh Mohamed and the UAE government for supporting Nouf and covering her treatment over so many years,” he said. “From checking on us to arranging appointments, they ensured that her treatment and care went smoothly. They have always stood beside us and we will never forget that.” He encourages his daughter to stay strong on her road to a better quality of life.

Mr Al Naqbi noted there was no initial indication at birth that his daughter would face such severe medical challenges. Born naturally at Al Wasl Hospital in Dubai, she showed no signs of illness, though her parents were related, doctors did not identify a specific genetic condition. Later, one of her brothers developed a similar spinal curvature and underwent surgery in Dusseldorf, Germany in 2023.

Diagnosed with early-onset scoliosis at age eight, Ms Al Naqbi was brought to Germany for treatment around age 11. In 2006, she underwent thoracolumbar fusion surgery at the University Hospital of Cologne. Though the initial operation using screws and hooks was deemed successful, the curvature began to worsen as she grew older. She subsequently underwent several operations on her legs to release tissue contractures restricting her movement, with her most recent leg procedure taking place in 2023. Physiotherapy has remained a constant routine, with the family frequently staying in Germany for months at a time for check-ups.

Despite decades of medical intervention, Ms Al Naqbi continues to struggle with walking long distances, chronic back pain, weakness, and numbness. Last June, she returned to Germany for another major spinal operation.

For decades, Emiratis with complex conditions have travelled to German hospitals for specialist care, building enduring connections with local doctors, nurses, and therapists. Ms Al Naqbi dreams of a life free from hospitals and constant physiotherapy, and hopes to one day meet President Sheikh Mohamed to thank him personally for his support.