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Transforming negative habits into positive ones is his forte

DUBAI — He had dreamt about the day he would be able to shake hands with His Highness Shaikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai. His dream turned into reality when he was selected a winner in the Creative Category of the Dubai Government Excellence Program.

Shaikh Mohammed personally acknowledged Dr Mohammed Al Khawly’s creative performance along with 11 other employees from different government departments for making serious proposals, having the ability to implement them, and contribute to solving problems.

Dr Khawly is a Specialist of Rehabilitation Treatment at the Dubai Health Authority (DHA).

“I have used art therapy over the years on patients suffering from psychological problems. It helps them to integrate into society while restoring their self-confidence,” explains Dr Khawly, who is also a member of the American Association for Art Therapy.

Dr Khawly has also been credited with using the group therapy to rehabilitate such patients. “I have also developed a theory to successfully transform negative habits into positive ones,” he says.

Besides, Dr Khawly has also initiated a programme for the elderly through education, relaxation and rehabilitation done through therapy. He says the programme has been particularly effective as it enhances the memory of the elder people.

“The elderly need attention. To enhance and sharpen their memories, I use different methods such as reading them stories on the life of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) and then asking relevant questions,” explains the doctor who in 2005 was nominated ‘The Department of Health and Medical Services (Dohms) Star’. He also won the Distinguished Employee Award for 2004 at Dohms.

For Dr Khawly, children are equally important. “I have developed programmes to alleviate the examination phobia by helping them relax and regain confidence,” he adds. He is also developing programmes to create a positive relationship between teachers and students.

The unexpected award has given him even more encouragement. “I never ever expected this award, though I did dream about Shaikh Mohammed shaking my hand. A few days later, the dream came true,” he says.

“I will continue working like this with more dedication and creativity backed with my strong faith in Allah,” he says.

He still has big dreams for the future. “I hope to open a resort for rehabilitation in the UAE which will work as a tourist attraction as well as help people relax and get rehabilitated,” he adds.