A major public health campaign
Every October, the United Arab Emirates turns pink to support the fight against breast cancer. In 2025, the campaign Pink October takes on an exceptional dimension, with more than 86 fixed and mobile clinics located throughout the country to offer free screening tests, clinical examinations, mammograms and ultrasound scans.
This initiative, supported by the health authorities, public hospitals and numerous private partners, aims to strengthen the culture of prevention and to encourage early screening, which is a key factor in recovery. By increasing the number of healthcare access points and making tests free of charge, the Emirates are reaffirming their commitment to making public health a national priority.
86 sites across the country, including both permanent and mobile clinics
The campaign covers all seven emirates, with clinics open from 1 to 31 October. Fixed units operate from 4 pm to 10 pm, unless Khorfakkan, where the timetables are adapted from 10.00 am to 4.00 pm. Among the iconic venues hosting these testing centres are City Walk in Dubai, Mushrif Mall in Abu Dhabi, Al Qasba in Sharjah or even Al Hamra Mall in Ras Al Khaimah.
The mobile clinics, for their part, criss-cross residential areas, business parks, universities and shopping centres in order to to make screening more accessible, particularly for women living far from urban centres. These medical units enable examinations to be carried out on site, with immediate follow-up if any abnormalities are detected.
This unprecedented logistical operation demonstrates the health authorities’ commitment to reach all sections of the population, regardless of social status, nationality or place of residence.
A strong, collective message on prevention
Beyond the figures, Pink October 2025 carries a a powerful awareness-raising message. The aim is not only to promote screening, but to establish a a genuine culture of sustainable prevention.
Awareness campaigns are being broadcast on television, on social media and in workplaces. Hospitals are organising educational workshops, some medical seminars and some charity events to provide information on early symptoms, self-examination techniques and the importance of regular check-ups.
The authorities would like to remind the public that Early detection increases the chances of recovery by 90 %, and that the majority of cases detected at an early stage can be treated effectively. By making these screening tests free and accessible, the Emirates are encouraging every woman to take action without delay.
An exemplary nationwide commitment
The success of Pink October is based on a collaboration between public institutions, private companies and civil society. Many local organisations are getting involved by organising charity events: charity walks, themed days in schools, fundraising campaigns and the lighting up of iconic buildings in pink, such as the Burj Khalifa or the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque.
Businesses are also playing an active part in this campaign. Several groups are setting up on-site screening programmes for their female employees and provide financial support for awareness-raising initiatives. This collaborative approach makes Pink October a example of a national campaign around a key public health issue.
A vision aligned with the UAE’s health objectives
The Pink October campaign forms part of the UAE’s public health strategy, which focuses on prevention, wellbeing and equitable access to healthcare. For several years now, the country has been investing in the modernisation of its medical infrastructure and in promoting preventative behaviour.
The issue goes beyond the fight against breast cancer: it is about strengthening the collective awareness of non-communicable diseases and to promote a proactive approach to health. Through technology, mobile screening and ongoing awareness-raising, the Emirates aim to become a regional model of preventive healthcare and community support.
Conclusion: a campaign that saves lives
When deploying 86 free screening centres across the country, the campaign Pink October 2025 shows that prevention is everyone’s responsibility. Through the involvement of the authorities, healthcare professionals, businesses and members of the public, the Emirates are demonstrating their commitment to turning awareness into concrete action.
Beyond the symbolism of the colour pink, this campaign embodies a a sustainable and people-centred approach to healthcare, based on shared responsibility and compassion. Every check-up, every consultation and every preventive measure helps to save lives.
From 1 to 31 October, Pink October reminds all women that vigilance and early detection are their best allies, a universal message, conveyed with strength and hope throughout the country.
