Dedicating her career to fight genetic diseases, Matar launched the UAE’s Down Syndrome Association and a year later the Genetic Disease Association, which she currently chairs.
She regularly campaigns in colleges and universities to encourage people to be screened for common genetic disorders.
Last year, Matar was ranked by website Muslim Science as among the ‘Twenty Most Influential Women in Science in the Islamic World’, joining the list of “amazing pioneers, shapers and emerging champions of science after a careful evaluation of her achievements,” the website said.
In an interview last year, she said she wears 11 different hats in one week, such is her involvement in a variety of organisations.
She is also deputy chairperson of Dubai Cares, a board member of the Marriage Fund, Awqaf and Minors Affairs Foundation, Dubai Women Establishment and the Canadian University of Dubai. Her notable achievements also include launching UAE Free of Thalassemia 2012. She has also served as director general of the Community Development Authority, and was the first woman to become under-secretary for the Ministry of Health.
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