Majid Al Futtaim Ventures hosts employee blood drive

Majid Al Futtaim Ventures has held a blood donation campaign for employees as part of the “Live Well, Work Well” program in partnership with Latifa Hospital’s Blood Donation Center and the Dubai Health Authority. The initiative was put together as part of an ongoing commitment to the community and in recognition of the need for voluntary blood donation throughout the UAE.

“Majid Al Futtaim Ventures regularly supports the growth and development of the communities where we operate,” said Ahmed Galal Ismail, CEO of Majid Al Futtaim Ventures. “This year, and as part of our Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) efforts, we coordinated a blood drive to assist local residents to give blood and increase general awareness about blood donation.”

Blood is needed across the UAE for accidents, surgical procedures, cancer patients and people suffering from Thalassemia. There is a constant need for voluntary blood donations in the region in order to maintain an adequate supply for regular patients and in emergency situations.  

In recognition and support for blood donation, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of UAE, and Ruler of Dubai, donated his own blood in January after hearing of a blood shortage for local Thalassemia patients. Thalassemia is one of the most common gene disorders in the world, and there are 450 patients currently in Dubai. These patients alone consume nearly half of all blood collected in Dubai.

Anyone that is in good health is eligible to give blood. Factors that may prevent someone from giving blood temporarily or permanently is if they are pregnant or fail to meet safety requirements, such as living a lifestyle that puts them at risk for HIV or hepatitis. Blood donation is safe, and the equipment used to take blood is sterilized and disposed of – eliminating any risk of acquiring diseases. Not only does blood donation save lives, it also benefits the donor by activating the bone marrow to produce fresh blood cells and promote regular checking of blood pressure and hemoglobin levels.

Majid Al Futtaim Ventures’ employee blood donation campaign took place from March 12^th to 13^th. Majid Al Futtaim Ventures is committed to promoting awareness, giving back to the community, and encouraging a positive work environment for employees. The ‘Live Well, Work Well” program is an ongoing initiative underscoring this commitment to health and well-being.