A UAE-based healthcare technology company headquartered in Dubai, a private AI innovator in the healthcare sector, was founded in 2021 and rebranded in 2023 to sharpen its focus on intelligent care solutions. Specialising in cognitive AI platforms, it orchestrates end-to-end patient journeys, from prevention and risk prediction to chronic disease management and resource optimisation, for governments, insurers, TPAs, and hospital networks across the MENA region.

Leveraging AI and digital twin technology, the firm processes tens of millions of patient records to deliver proactive, personalised care that enhances clinical outcomes and financial efficiency for payors and providers. Its Intelligent Care Journey Platform stands out in the healthcare industry by simplifying complexity through predictive analytics, population health management, and operational streamlining, positioning it as a key player in AI-driven healthcare transformation.

As of late 2025, the company employed over 60 full-time staff, reflecting robust growth within their industry, driven by strategic hires in product development and data science to accelerate its AI-powered platform.

The challenge

As the company entered a strategic growth phase, it faced a critical hiring need: a Senior AI Solutions Engineer capable of leading complex machine learning initiatives in healthcare.

The search took place in a highly competitive 2025 talent market:

• Severe shortage of AI specialists with healthcare expertise
• Intense competition from global technology firms
• Need for a rare blend of academic research credibility and production-level deployment experience

The company did not have a UAE-based recruitment partner and relied primarily on internal networks for non-specialist roles. However, this position required a targeted, highly strategic search approach.

This was not a standard AI hire, it was a strategic technical appointment.

Our approach

The engagement began via referral from a long-standing strategic partner in the same industry, and over a three-month period, we built a close working relationship with the leadership team.

Through detailed discovery sessions, we aligned on:

• Technical requirements
• Cultural fit
• Growth plans
• Interview process design
• Compensation positioning

We developed a focused search strategy targeting:

• AI researchers with applied healthcare experience
• PhD-level professionals bridging academia and industry
• Candidates with both publication credentials and deployment track records

We conducted proactive headhunting and executive-level outreach across regional and international AI networks.

We managed:

• Candidate screening and technical qualification
• Interview coordination with senior stakeholders
• Pre-interview preparation and advisory support
• Offer negotiation and expectation alignment

Consistent communication reduced friction, streamlined decision-making, and ensured alignment throughout the process.

The outcome

We secured a Senior AI Engineer and PhD candidate with 7+ years of cross-sector experience in:

• Predictive analytics
• Computer vision
• Natural language processing
• End-to-end AI model deployment

Previously a Senior Studies Researcher at United Arab Emirates University, her work focuses on human-centered AI and accessibility technologies, including deep learning applications for sign language and the Deaf community.

Her profile delivered exactly what the business required: research depth combined with commercial application capability.

“Michael played a key role in helping me secure my new position as Senior AI Solutions Engineer. From day one, he was professional, transparent, and consistently kept me updated at every stage. He also gave thoughtful advice and real support that genuinely made a difference. Because of that, the whole experience felt smooth and I was able to prepare properly for each step with confidence.

I highly recommend Michael to anyone looking to advance their career or expand their team in the region.”

The impact

• Strengthened AI leadership capability during a high-growth phase
• Accelerated product innovation roadmap
• Established a trusted UAE recruitment partnership
• Positioned the company to scale its AI-driven healthcare platform regionally

Looking ahead

With the foundation now in place, the client is continuing its expansion strategy across the GCC, supported by a retained recruitment partner capable of delivering niche, high-impact technical talent in competitive markets.

About the author

Michael Deane is a Senior Recruitment Consultant at Aspire Technology. He focuses on finding opportunities for C Suite, VP and senior talent, along with technical and Business Development professionals within healthcare technology, Defence and Enterprise infrastructure. across the Middle East. Michael has an extensive technical, leadership and recruitment background.