The program was developed by His Highness Sheikh Mohammad Bin Rashid AL Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the United Arab Emerates and Ruler of Dubai as a month of service during Ramadan.
In addition to the United Arab Emerates, Noor Dubai will reach out to people in a number of countries including Iraq, Afghanistan, Mali, Sri Lanka, Kenya, Pakistan, Ethiopia, Bangladesh, Egypt, Jordan and Palestine.
Lions clubs members in 12 countries have held eye screening campaigns. Those who require cataract operations or corneal transplants will be treated in Dubai during September. Lions and opthalmologists from neighboring countries will travel to Dubai to provide follow up care, funded by the Dubai government and His Highness.
Speaking on behalf of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed, His Highness Sheikh Ahmed Bin Mohammed said: 'Ramadan is indeed a month of generosity, charity and compassion. Let us all come together to collectively work to ensure Noor Dubai becomes another catalyst towards a bigger international commitment to cure eye diseases and protect children from preventable forms of blindness."
In addition to treatment, Lions and the Dubai government are launching an educational campaign in 12 countries aimed at increasing awareness on the need for regular and timely treatment of eye disesases.
“Lions have long been champions of people who are blind and visually impaired. By better educating the public on the need for regular eye exams and timely treatment of eye diseases, we can end preventable blindness,” said Albert Brandel, Lions Clubs International President. "We are excited to partner with the government and other non-governmental organizations to launch a vision screening program in the United Arab Emirates."
