UAE launches Amal, the country’s first AI physician assistant

The UAE has introduced Amal, an AI-powered physician assistant that interviews patients before their doctor appointments. The system creates medical summaries to help doctors make faster treatment decisions and reduce waiting times.

Developed by Boston Health AI, Amal takes medical histories from patients online before they see their physician. The technology provides doctors with structured patient information while improving efficiency across Emirates Health Services.

How does it work?

Amal conducts interactive interviews with patients online before their scheduled appointments. When patients book a visit, they receive a link to access the system. The AI assistant asks about their medical history, current symptoms, and reasons for seeking care.

"So that when the patient sees the doctor, the full note and all their history of presenting illness, and why they need to be seen by the doctor and so on, are nicely summarised for the physicians," explains Adil Haider, founder of Boston Health AI. "So that when the doctors see the patient, they are actually well prepared."

The system also provides evidence-based treatment recommendations to doctors. However, all final decisions remain with the physician. Amal will not diagnose or treat patients independently - it only assists doctors in their work.

After appointments, patients can return to Amal with follow-up questions about medications or doctor instructions. "You can ask all those questions to Amal again," Haider says.

Why does it matter?

The technology addresses two major healthcare challenges: long waiting times and documentation burden on doctors. By preparing detailed patient summaries in advance, doctors can focus more time on actual patient care rather than note-taking.

Amal has been tested with over 30,000 patients in the US and Pakistan, achieving patient satisfaction rates above 95 percent. The system reduces administrative work for physicians by handling documentation and billing tasks.

For patients, the technology means shorter wait times and more personalized care. Doctors arrive at appointments already familiar with patient concerns and medical histories.

The context

Emirates Health Services showcased Amal alongside two other AI systems at the World Health Expo 2026 in Dubai. The initiative is part of the UAE's broader digital healthcare transformation strategy.

Amal has been specifically adapted for UAE culture, with customized dialect, accent, and appearance for the local population. The system will initially launch in Emirates Health Services' rapid care system for Emirati nationals through teleconsultation appointments.

Dr Yousif Mohammed Al Serkal, Director General of Emirates Health Services, says the organization will continue developing digital healthcare services to improve customer experience and expand modern technology use. The project has already earned regional recognition for its approach to healthcare innovation.