28 February 2015 marks the eighth international Rare Disease Day. On and around this day, hundreds of patient organisations from more than 80 countries and regions worldwide plan awareness-raising activities around the slogan Day-by-day, hand-in-hand. The main objective of Rare Disease Day is to raise awareness amongst the general public and decision-makers about rare diseases and their impact on patients’ lives.

Held under the patronage of H. H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Deputy Ruler of Dubai, Minister of Finance and Industry, and organized by biotechnology company Genzyme and Sheikh Hamdan bin Rashid Al Maktoum Award for Medical Sciences, the international event was organised in Dubai for the first time, and we were honoured to host the UAE launch event. Supporters for the cause joined us at Bikers Cafe in Jumeirah, rode 12.5 kilometres to the Dubai Creek Park to have photos taken with the kids and got back to the cafe for a late lunch. All participants received a commemorative badge and token for the lunch at Bikers Cafe. The response was great, as we had around 50 cyclists and several bikers joining in to spread awareness. Dubai Sports Council, EMSF and Dubai Police had also gathered at Bikers Cafe before the event, ready for the ride, and were extremely happy with our staffs service and attitude. The Rare Disease Day Awareness Campaign will now be happening on a yearly basis, and we hope to be a part of it next year as well.