VIDEO: Jordanian girl with spinal muscular atrophy arrives in Dubai for treatment sponsored by Sheikh Mohammed

Young Jordanian girl Katia Abu Al Saud, who is battling spinal muscular atrophy, has arrived in Dubai to begin a potentially life-changing treatment journey, with the cost of her treatment generously sponsored by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai.

Katia will receive treatment at Al Jalila Children’s Hospital, part of the Dubai Health Authority, where she will first undergo a series of medical assessments and evaluations before her treatment begins.

The Dubai Government Media Office announced that Sheikh Mohammed had agreed to sponsor Katia’s treatment following an appeal for assistance from her mother, Nour.

The family had been facing significant financial difficulties after doctors in Jordan informed them that the treatment Katia requires was not available locally due to its exceptionally high cost.

The treatment is estimated to cost approximately $2.4 million (Dh8.8 million), an amount far beyond the family’s financial means.

Katia Abu Al Saud poses for a photograph.

The sponsorship will enable Katia to access specialised medical care in Dubai and receive the treatment recommended for her condition.

Her arrival in the UAE reflects the humanitarian support extended by the country’s leadership to children and families facing serious medical challenges, particularly when the required treatment is beyond their financial reach.

Katia Abu Al Saud is being evaluated by experts at Al Jalila Children’s Hospital.

Katia’s medical team at Al Jalila Children’s Hospital will conduct the necessary examinations and assessments to determine the next steps in her treatment plan.

Her family expressed hope that the treatment in Dubai will give the young girl a new opportunity to improve her health and quality of life.