A Dubai-raised doctor explains how training across three countries opened his path to a US residency.
Dr. Hasan Al-Ali, who grew up in Dubai, has secured a general surgery residency at the University of Central Florida/HCA Ocala. He reached the placement after completing medical training that spanned three countries. Dr. Al-Ali was born in Iraq and raised in Dubai. He finished school at the International School of Choueifat before studying medicine abroad. He set his focus on practicing in the United States early in his education.
“I knew early on that I wanted to become a doctor in the United States,” he says.
He enrolled at St. George’s University (SGU) School of Medicine in Grenada, West Indies. His route mirrors a wider pattern among UAE students who pursue medical education outside the region.
Dr. Al-Ali’s training moved across three countries. He started at Northumbria University in the UK through SGU’s partnership pathway. He completed his foundational sciences in Grenada. He then moved to New York for clinical rotations.
The rotations took place in high-volume US hospitals, including Elmhurst Hospital Center and Queens Hospital Center. “The environment is fast-paced and hands-on. You’re not just observing, you’re part of the team,” he says.
During one rotation, he performed CPR on a patient in cardiac arrest. “That’s when you truly understand the responsibility you carry as a doctor,” he says. Dr. Al-Ali credits SGU with preparing him for the United States Medical Licensing Examination.
“Mastering the basics early allowed me to better understand the mechanisms behind complex diseases,” he says. “The additional resources available throughout my Basic and Clinical Sciences prepared me well for the USMLE exams.”
Surgical Residency Match in Florida
Dr. Al-Ali decided on surgery during his clinical rotations. He found himself drawn to the operating room and the precision it required.
“I’ve always enjoyed working with my hands, and during rotations, I realized surgery was where I felt most engaged,” he says. “Being in the operating theatre and learning directly from mentors made it clear this was the right path.”
His time in the US hospitals exposed him to a wide range of cases and to the work that surrounds patient care.
“Beyond clinical knowledge, I also gained insight into the full scope of patient care, including coordination with social work, administration, and discharge planning,” he says. “This progression has prepared me well for residency, with each stage building on the previous one and helping me grow with confidence.”
He matched into his top choice on Match Day.
“It felt like everything I worked for finally paid off,” he says. “Matching into my top program was something I’ll always be grateful for.”
Dr. Al-Ali offered direct advice to UAE students considering the same path.
“For students in the UAE considering this path, it’s important to be clear about your motivations,” he says. “Medicine requires discipline and consistency. The opportunity is there, but you have to stay proactive and make the most of it.”
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