Dr Muna Tahlak, CEO of Dubai Health Authority’s (DHA) Latifa Hospital for Women and Children, was recently elected as the president of the International Hospital Federation (IHF). The recognition is seen as a major milestone for the UAE's health sector in line with the global fight against COVID-19.

Notably, Dr Tahlak is the first Arab woman to be elected to the esteemed international position in the history of the Union.

Dr Tahlak was elected by the IHF Governing Council as the new IHF president-designate. In line with this development, Dr Tahlak will be ending her term as IHF treasurer. She will be beginning her two-year term as president-designate of IHF.

Responding to the historic feat, Dr Tahlak extended her deepest gratitude to the UAE's wise leadership for working towards the empowerment of women.

She further lauded Emirati women for continuing to hold high-ranking positions and responsibilities across all fields. The UAE has also provided ample amount of opportunities to support and nurture the growth of Emirati women across various fields and specialisations, particularly the medical field.

“This victory highlights not only the progress that Emirati women have made, but also reflects the position of the health sector in the UAE," Dr Tahlak added.

She further underlined that she will serve her tenure as the IHF president-designate with complete dedication and values.

She also shared her experience with the IHF over the past five years, highlighting how the opportunity has helped in the success of hospitals in the UAE on a global scale.

Awadh Al Ketbi, Director-General of DHA, congratulated Dr Tahlak on this remarkable achievement, stating that this victory reflects the position of UAE as a developed country and the contribution of Emirati women at the global level.

"It is a win for everyone in the health sector in the UAE who are fulfilling their responsibilities and duties with dedication and sincerity," Al Ketbi said.

Earlier, the International Federation of Obstetrics and Gynaecology (Figo) appointed Dr Tahlak as the Figo Regional Trustee Africa - Eastern Mediterranean 2021-2022.