Dubai: The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has named a street in Abu Dhabi after an Indian-origin doctor as part of the “Honoring UAE’s Visionaries: Commemorative Streets” project initiated by the Department of Municipalities and Transport (DMT).
The George Matthew Street is located near Sheikh Shakbooth Medical City in Al Mafraq, honoring the 57-year-long service to the UAE’s healthcare system, ANI news agency reported. Arriving in the UAE at the age of 26 in 1967, Dr Matthew started his service as a general practitioner and was affectionately called “Matyous” by the locals. He contributed to the growth of modern medicine in the UAE and held several key positions throughout his career, including Medical Director of Al Ain Region in 1972 and Health Authority Consultant in 2001.
He pursued specialized studies in tropical diseases in England and hospital management at Harvard. He also served as a valuable educator, training healthcare workers and earning the trust of colleagues and the community. His dedication earned him the privilege of serving the royal family, including the late Sheikh Tahnoon bin Mohammed bin Khalifa Al Nahyan. In recognition of his service, the UAE granted Dr Matthew and his family citizenship ten years ago.
Originally from Thumpamon, Pathanamthitta in Kerala, Dr Matthew graduated from Trivandrum Medical College in 1963.
