Dr. Habiba Al Safar
Professor (Genomics)
Dean of Medical School and Health Sciences at Khalifa University
Dr. Habiba Al Safar, Dean of the College of Medicine and Health Sciences and Professor of Genomics at Khalifa University, focuses her research on constructing genomic profiles of individuals of Arab descent to identify disease-related genetic segments, particularly those affecting the UAE’s local communities.
With over 100 publications in Q1 journals, her work includes the first whole-genome sequencing of Emirati subjects, shedding light on genetic diversity and establishing a UAE-specific reference genome. Recognized as an exceptional Arab woman scientist, she has received the International L’Oréal-UNESCO Fellowship for Women in Science and the UAE’s prestigious First Honor Model award from His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum.
Dr. Al Safar has been a member of the UAE Science Council since 2016 and recently earned the Khalifa Award for Education for her outstanding university lectures in the UAE.