Statement of Commitment to Medical Education


Sheikh Shakhbout Medical City (SSMC) adopts the mission and values to inspire hope and promote health through integrated Clinical Practice, Education and Research”. The Education Shield at SSMC comprises five centers of Healthcare Education including the Center for Graduate Medical Education, the Center for Medical Student Education, the Center for Workforce and Professional Development, the Center for Health Sciences, and the Center for Nursing Education. The Education Shield is led by an appointed Dean of Education, five Associate Deans, three Medical Directors and a structured and integrated network of administrators and residency coordinators. The Education Shield operates a substantial budget to develop and implement a comprehensive Education strategic plan in full alignment with the strategic priorities of the institution.

The Center for Graduate Medical Education, governed by the Graduate Medical Education Committee and its Chair – the Designated Institutional Official, is committed to building and continuously improving education excellence in programs of medical internship, residency and fellowship. Our GME programs provide a learner-centered environment that fosters the development of knowledge, skill and professional competence. The Center for Graduate Medical Education provides the necessary educational, financial and human resources to meet and exceed all training requirements and standards of accreditation including leadership and faculty protected time, scholarly activities and faculty development, technology support and simulation facilities, trainee supervision, safety and wellness, and faculty, staff and trainee reward and recognition. The unwavering commitment of SSMC to its sponsored and participating programs is a reflection of its integral strategy in building the future workforce and developing the next generation of healthcare leaders.

The Goals and Objectives of GME Center

  • Providing postgraduate medical education to young physician graduates across the medical and clinical education continuum in collaboration with local, regional and international stakeholders. Currently, SSMC provides training to 174 physicians in 12 medical education programs of clinical internship, fellowship & residency
  • Oversight to all institutional and program level accreditation requirements, establishing policies for graduate medical education and assuring that the training programs comply with DOH policies and procedures
  • Maintain the accreditation status by all relevant accrediting bodies (ACGME-I, Arab Board, Jordanian Board, Emirati Board, DOH, RCC etc) of the Sponsoring Institution and all its programs
  • Assuring an educational environment in which residents may raise and resolve issues without fear of intimidation or retaliation
  • Reviewing and approving all applications for new program accreditation
  • Oversight of all processes related to reductions or closures of any individual program, major participating sites or sponsoring institution.
  • Approving all major administrative decisions within GME programs
  • Promote well-being by implementing initiatives to promote resident and fellow well-being, including mental health support, work-life balance strategies, and wellness activities

To apply to any program, please proceed to the DoH website Residency and Fellowship Application Process (doh.gov.ae) and submit your application through the MEAD application system.


For further inquiries and assistance, please contact us on the email below:

[email protected]


SSMC receives accreditation by the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada as an education institute


SSMC has officially received accreditation by the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada as an education institute for four years. The accreditation will raise the bar for medical education standards and enhance the overall quality of training outcomes. Trainees who have successfully completed their graduate medical education (GME) training will now have the opportunity to pursue specialty and subspecialty certification exams offered by the royal college, making them eligible to receive prestigious certifications.


SSMC has officially received accreditation by the National Institute for Healthcare Specialization (NIHS) as an education institute for five years


Accreditation by the NIHS was granted to several programs as well e.g., Internal Medicine, Pediatrics, Emergency Medicine, Radiology, Adult Rheumatology, Gastroenterology, Cardiology, Pediatric Rheumatology and Critical Care. The accreditation of medical education programs by the Emirati Board has gained significant prominence in Gulf Region. It adheres to rigorous standards to ensure the delivery of high-quality medical education and training. Medical graduates completing such programs not only acquire comprehensive clinical knowledge but also develop critical skills necessary for professional practice in the United Arab Emirates and beyond. The accreditation process fosters continuous improvement and accountability, ultimately contributing to the advancement of healthcare standards in the region.

Education week for graduate medical education serves as a pivotal platform for fostering continuous learning and innovation within our medical community. Through a diverse array of workshops, seminars, and interactive sessions, this annual event not only equips residents and fellows with the latest advancements in medical practice but also encourages collaboration and peer to peer knowledge sharing. From hands-on clinical skills workshops to discussions on cutting-edge research, education week plays a crucial role in shaping the future of healthcare by empowering the next generation of physicians with the tools and insights needed to excel in their careers and provide exceptional patient care.

What is Graduate Medical Education (GME)?

How long does GME Training last?

How do I apply for GME Programs?

What is the match process in GME?

What are the eligibility requirements for GME programs?

Can international medical graduates (IMGs) apply for GME programs?

How are GME programs structured?

Are GME programs paid positions?

What support is available for residents and fellows?

How do residents and fellows transition to independent practice after completing residency or fellowship training?

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