Dubai has taken a major leap in digital healthcare innovation with the launch of its AI-powered Virtual ICU system. The new platform, developed by Dubai Health, uses artificial intelligence to monitor critical patients in real time and alert medical teams to early signs of distress.
Currently being piloted at Al Jalila Children’s Hospital, the Virtual ICU is equipped with AI cameras that track patient movements, facial expressions, and changes in skin tone. These indicators can help detect discomfort or potential emergencies before they escalate.
Hend Majed Al Abbar, Director of the AI Enablement Department at Dubai Health, said the system continuously monitors patients and sends instant alerts to the nursing station when it identifies signs of distress. This enables doctors and nurses to respond rapidly and improve patient outcomes.
Integrated with Dubai’s Health Network
The Virtual ICU is fully connected to Salama, Dubai Health’s electronic medical record (EMR) system. This integration allows automatic monitoring of vital signs, including heart rate and blood pressure, giving clinicians a complete and real-time overview of each patient’s health.
The pilot project is being developed in collaboration with the National Children’s Hospital in Washington, D.C., where specialists are remotely observing the same ICU beds from their command centre. Al Abbar confirmed that the system will become fully operational in December, with plans to expand to other hospitals after evaluation.
Revolutionizing Critical Care
Virtual ICUs are seen as the future of healthcare. By combining visual analytics and clinical data, they help medical teams detect issues earlier, reducing mortality rates and hospital stays. Similar systems have already shown success in the United States.
AI for Respiratory Health
In addition to the Virtual ICU, Dubai Health is also testing Virufy, an AI app that analyses breathing and coughing sounds to predict respiratory illnesses. The pilot is underway at Nad Al Hamar and Al Barsha clinics to collect and validate medical data.
A Vision for AI-Driven Healthcare
Dubai’s Virtual ICU and related AI initiatives mark a major step toward AI-assisted medicine. These projects reflect the emirate’s vision of using innovation, data, and technology to enhance patient care, reduce risks, and support medical professionals in delivering faster, safer, and more efficient healthcare.
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