Under the compassionate umbrella of Dubai Humanitarian City, a powerful initiative known as “Eye of the World” is making a real difference in the fight against preventable blindness. With a clear vision and unwavering dedication, this humanitarian medical team is restoring sight to thousands of people across the globe—particularly in remote and underserved communities where access to healthcare is severely limited.
Their work takes on special meaning each year on World Sight Day, marked annually on October 9. This day draws attention to the millions affected by preventable blindness—especially cataracts, the world’s leading cause of vision loss. Despite the simplicity and speed of the treatment—a surgery that takes less than 20 minutes—more than 100 million people worldwide continue to suffer from vision impairment due to cataracts.
In poorer regions, the barriers are stark: limited medical infrastructure, a shortage of trained professionals, and minimal awareness. These factors leave millions trapped in darkness, even though their blindness is entirely treatable. It is in these areas that the “Eye of the World” team has stepped in, offering not just medical care, but hope and dignity.
Since its inception in December 2009, the team has performed over 125,000 eye surgeries in some of the world’s most isolated areas. Their approach is not only about conducting advanced surgical operations but also about empowering local communities—training local staff and ensuring the long-term sustainability of eye care services even after the medical convoys leave.
Speaking to the Emirates News Agency (WAM), Dr. Mohammed Hindi, founder and Executive Director of the initiative, emphasized a bold goal:
“We aim to reach one million people suffering from blindness. Our mission is not just to perform surgeries, but to close the gap between efforts and real impact. Every operation is a chance to return someone’s sight—and with it, their ability to live with dignity.”
When asked why Dubai was chosen as the base for this initiative, Dr. Hindi was clear: it wasn’t by chance.
He credits Dubai Humanitarian City’s pioneering role in supporting global humanitarian work and fostering an ideal environment for innovative, cross-border medical missions.
Through its vision and tireless work, “Eye of the World” stands as a beacon of what’s possible when compassion meets commitment. From remote villages to underserved cities, this Dubai-born initiative continues to prove that restoring sight is not just a medical act—it’s a life-changing gift.
