Burjeel Medical City Launches Advanced Epilepsy Monitoring Unit to Strengthen Specialized Epilepsy Care in the UAE

In a significant advancement for neurological healthcare in the region, Burjeel Medical City (BMC), the flagship facility of Burjeel Holdings, has launched a cutting-edge Epilepsy Monitoring Unit (EMU) designed to deliver world-class diagnostic and treatment solutions for patients with complex epilepsy. This initiative positions BMC at the forefront of specialized neurological care in the UAE and the wider Middle East.

Equipped with the latest in neurodiagnostic technology, the Advanced EMU is tailored to support the comprehensive evaluation, classification, and management of seizure disorders, enabling more precise diagnoses and effective treatment strategies, including the potential for surgical interventions where necessary.

A Milestone in Epilepsy Care for the Region
The newly launched unit reflects Burjeel Medical City’s commitment to offering quaternary care services and addressing the growing burden of neurological conditions in the region. The EMU will serve as a regional referral center for patients with refractory epilepsy, complex seizure types, and those requiring pre-surgical evaluation.

Dr. Yahia Khder, Consultant Neurologist and Head of the Epilepsy Program at BMC, stated:

“The establishment of our Advanced Epilepsy Monitoring Unit is a transformative step forward. This facility not only allows for continuous, high-resolution brain activity monitoring but also enables us to tailor treatment plans with greater accuracy. Our goal is to improve seizure control, enhance quality of life, and offer real hope for patients who have struggled for years with uncontrolled epilepsy.”

Key Features of the Advanced EMU:
Long-term video EEG monitoring to capture and analyze seizure activity in real time

Specialized care team comprising epileptologists, neurosurgeons, neuropsychologists, and EEG technologists

Pre-surgical evaluation for candidates considering epilepsy surgery

Advanced neuroimaging and functional mapping to pinpoint seizure origin

Personalized treatment planning, including pharmacological management, dietary therapies, and surgical intervention pathways

Child and adult epilepsy services, providing a full spectrum of care across age groups

Strengthening the UAE’s Neurological Health Ecosystem
According to global estimates, approximately 1% of the population lives with epilepsy, with nearly 30% of patients classified as having drug-resistant epilepsy—underscoring the urgent need for specialized, evidence-based care solutions.

Burjeel Medical City’s EMU is expected to:

Reduce patient travel abroad for specialized epilepsy diagnosis and treatment

Enhance early and accurate diagnosis in both pediatric and adult populations

Foster clinical research and education in epilepsy and neurophysiology

Build capacity for specialized epilepsy services across the UAE and the MENA region

John Sunil, CEO of Burjeel Holdings, added:

“This launch aligns with our vision to build centers of excellence in key therapeutic areas and offer UAE residents access to global standards of care, right here at home. The EMU is another step in our journey to redefine neuroscience care across the region.”