For many aspiring doctors in the UAE, pursuing a medical career in the United States can seem complex and uncertain. But for Dr. Hasan Al-Ali, a Dubai-raised student, a clear pathway and global training helped turn that ambition into reality.
Born in Iraq and raised in Dubai, Dr. Al-Ali completed his schooling at the International School of Choueifat before choosing to pursue medicine abroad. Like many students in the region, he was drawn to the opportunities available in the US healthcare system but was also aware of the challenges involved.
“I knew early on that I wanted to become a doctor in the United States,” he says.
His journey reflects a growing trend among UAE students seeking international medical education. At SGU, his medical training spanned three countries. He began at Northumbria University in the UK through SGU’s partnership pathway, continued his foundational sciences in Grenada, and went on to complete clinical rotations in New York.
Training in high-volume US hospitals, including Elmhurst Hospital Center and Queens Hospital Center, provided hands-on experience in clinical environments. “The environment is fast-paced and hands-on. You’re not just observing, you’re part of the team,” he says.
One defining moment during his rotations left a lasting impression. “I had the opportunity to perform CPR during a cardiac arrest. That’s when you truly understand the responsibility you carry as a doctor.”
These experiences played a key role in shaping his decision to pursue a career in surgery.
What started as an interest became more defined during rotations, where he found himself drawn to the operating room and the precision it demands.
“I’ve always enjoyed working with my hands, and during rotations, I realised surgery was where I felt most engaged. Being in the operating theatre and learning directly from mentors made it clear this was the right path.”
Throughout every step of his journey, Dr. Al-Ali credits SGU with helping him build the academic foundation and confidence needed to pursue residency in the United States.
“Mastering the basics early allowed me to better understand the mechanisms behind complex diseases. The additional resources available throughout my Basic and Clinical Sciences prepared me well for the USMLE exams.”
“Training in these high-volume hospitals exposed me to a wide range of cases and gave me a realistic understanding of different specialties. Beyond clinical knowledge, I also gained insight into the full scope of patient care, including coordination with social work, administration, and discharge planning. This progression has prepared me well for residency, with each stage building on the previous one and helping me grow with confidence.”
That preparation ultimately led to Match Day, where he secured his preferred residency program in general surgery at the University of Central Florida/HCA Ocala.
“It felt like everything I worked for finally paid off,” he says. “Matching into my top program was something I’ll always be grateful for.”
While his journey highlights the opportunities available, Dr. Al-Ali acknowledges the level of commitment required. “For students in the UAE considering this path, it’s important to be clear about your motivations. Medicine requires discipline and consistency. The opportunity is there, but you have to stay proactive and make the most of it.”
As more students from the UAE explore international medical careers, stories like Dr. Al-Ali’s reflect a growing trend, where global education pathways, combined with focused ambition, are helping shape the next generation of doctors.
