Ajman, UAE: Thumbay Group has laid the foundation stone for the UAE’s first private veterinary teaching hospital and veterinary college at Thumbay Medicity, Ajman, marking a major milestone in animal healthcare and veterinary education in the region.

The groundbreaking ceremony was held in the presence of His Highness Sheikh Ammar bin Humaid Al Nuaimi, Crown Prince of Ajman and Chairman of the Ajman Executive Council, along with Dr. Thumbay Moideen, Founder President of Thumbay Group.

Veterinary hospital and college to serve regional needs

The upcoming Thumbay Veterinary Hospital and Thumbay College of Veterinary Medicine aim to address the growing demand for advanced veterinary care and formal veterinary education within the UAE.

The facility will provide treatment for:

  • Companion animals including dogs, cats, and exotic pets
  • Large animals such as horses, camels, and livestock

A dedicated teaching farm is also planned as the next phase to offer practical training in production animal medicine, herd health, and farm management.

Operates under Gulf Medical University

The veterinary college will function under Gulf Medical University (GMU), the flagship academic institution of Thumbay Group.

Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Thumbay Moideen said the project extends the group’s long-standing vision of providing world-class healthcare and education within the UAE.

He stated that the hospital would deliver high-quality veterinary care while creating a UAE-based educational pathway for aspiring veterinarians in the region.

Doctor of Veterinary Medicine programme introduced

The Thumbay College of Veterinary Medicine will initially launch with its flagship Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) programme.

According to Prof. Manda Venkataramana, Chancellor of Gulf Medical University, the curriculum will focus on:

  • Clinical exposure from the first year
  • Evidence-based veterinary practice
  • Research relevant to regional conditions
  • Companion animal and livestock medicine
  • Wildlife and public health

International collaborations and training partnerships

The college has partnered with several veterinary institutions and specialty centres across the UAE and internationally to provide hands-on clinical training.

Key collaborators include:

  • Royal Veterinary College, London
  • Sharjah Equine Hospital
  • Sharjah Falcon Hospital
  • UAQ Camel Breeding Center
  • Rajiv Gandhi Institute of Veterinary Education and Research
  • Don State University, Russia
  • City Vet Hospital Groups

Modern veterinary infrastructure planned

The hospital is being developed to international standards and will include dedicated sections for:

  • Small animal care
  • Large animal care
  • Surgery
  • Diagnostic imaging
  • Intensive care
  • Laboratory services
  • Isolation facilities

A teaching farm featuring livestock facilities and stables will also be developed in phases to ensure comprehensive field exposure for students.

Conclusion

The project marks a significant advancement for veterinary healthcare and education in the UAE and reflects Thumbay Group’s continued expansion into specialised healthcare and academic sectors.