Gulf Medical University (GMU) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Physio Evolution Animal Physiotherapy LLC (PEAP), aiming to enhance veterinary education with structured physiotherapy training. The agreement, announced in Ajman, UAE, was signed by the Dean of the Thumbay College of Veterinary Medicine in the presence of Dr. Thumbay Moideen, Founder and President of Thumbay Group, and Ms. Kirsten Christiansen, Founder and Managing Director of PEAP.
Read More
This five-year partnership will integrate physiotherapy training into the Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) curriculum, allowing students to transition from pre-clinical courses at GMU to hands-on physiotherapy training at PEAP’s facility in Dubai. Here, students will work with animals recovering from surgery, injuries, and age-related conditions, gaining real-world experience alongside PEAP clinicians, who will also serve as adjunct faculty at GMU.
The collaboration reflects the growing demand for animal rehabilitation services in the UAE, particularly among pet owners seeking post-operative care and sports rehabilitation for pets. Prof. Mohammad S. Khalifeh, Dean of the Thumbay College, emphasized that incorporating rehabilitation into the training is crucial to prepare students for modern veterinary practice.
Kirsten Christiansen noted the significant demand for skilled animal rehabilitation professionals in the region and highlighted the importance of training students early in their veterinary careers.
In addition to student training, the partnership encourages collaborative research, healthcare management initiatives, and joint continuing medical education programs between the two institutions. Both GMU and PEAP will report on their joint activities biannually.
The DVM program at GMU received initial accreditation in September 2025 and is actively accepting applications from students who completed Grade 12 with Biology and Chemistry as part of the broader approach linking human, animal, and environmental health.