Amit Arora’s life took an unexpected turn in 2017 when his wife, Ruchi, was suddenly diagnosed with jaundice. As her condition rapidly worsened, doctors urgently recommended a .

Without a moment’s hesitation, Amit volunteered to donate a part of his liver. "I knew I had to help. I didn’t hesitate for a second. It was about saving her life, and I would do whatever it took," Amit shared with Khaleej Times.

Thanks to the , both Amit and Ruchi are now living healthy lives in Dubai. Despite the major surgery, Amit has also maintained his own health, and Ruchi continues to thrive.

Reflecting on his decision, Amit shared how it profoundly changed his perspective on life. “Organ donation has the power to save lives and offer individuals a second chance at a fulfilling life. It's crucial we all consider it, especially after our passing.

"I’m proud that my decision helped Ruchi, and I hope it inspires others to think about how they can make a difference,” he said.

While his decision was initially met with questions, the reactions of those around him soon turned to admiration as they understood the significance of his selfless act. "It wasn’t just about the surgery — it was about giving her the chance to live," Amit added.

Amit's commitment to didn't end with his own act of generosity. His father-in-law, who had pledged to donate his eyes, passed away shortly after Ruchi’s transplant. True to his wishes, Amit and his family ensured that his eyes were donated, continuing a legacy of giving.

Today, Arora remains a strong advocate for organ donation. “I’m committed to pledging my organs, too, in the event of my passing. If my decision can save even one life, it will be worth it,” he added.

Last year, the UAE set a new world record for the highest number of online organ donation registrations within a one-hour timeframe.

Hayat, which means life in Arabic, is the National Programme for Donation and Transplantation of Human Organs and Tissues, established in September 2020 under the supervision of the Ministry of Health and Prevention (MoHAP).

As earlier reported by Khaleej Times, organ utilisation rate (ORU) in the UAE stands at 4.2, which is one of the .

In the same spirit of giving, Suchitra, a 48-year-old housewife who has been a UAE resident for over 21 years, has pledged to donate her organs upon her passing. "Philanthropy and social work have been close to my heart," she shared.

Explaining her motivation, Suchitra said, “By donating our organs, we don’t just leave our bodies behind; we offer others the chance to live on through us. It’s a gift of life, and I believe the Almighty will bless us for such acts of kindness,” she shared.

Suchitra

She also mentioned that her family fully supports her decision, with her husband being an organ donor as well. Both of them are regular blood donors, further emphasising their commitment to giving back.

Suchitra has pledged to donate all her organs and any other body parts that could help improve others’ lives.

Similarly, Rohit Garg, a 49-year-old CFO at Al Habtoor Group, has also committed to organ donation, viewing it as a powerful way to give back to society.

“I pledged to donate because I believe in community service. If my organs can help someone see, breathe, or live longer, it’s a meaningful way to make a difference. Knowing I can save lives even after I’m gone is a powerful and fulfilling thought,” he shared with Khaleej Times.

Rohit Garg

Rohit believes organ donation is vital for the community. “It gives people a second chance at life. A single donor can save multiple lives, and that’s an act of kindness. I encourage everyone to consider this gift — it’s a simple decision that can bring hope to many families.”

Although it wasn’t an easy decision for his family to accept, they eventually understood that it came from a place of kindness. “It took some discussions, but they respect my choice to help others even after I’m gone,” Rohit said.

He has pledged to donate any viable organs after his passing, knowing his decision could save lives in the future. 

Under the Hayat programme, any person in the UAE aged 18 and above and holding an Emirates ID may register their desire to donate organs after brain death.

After completing registration, the applicant will receive an electronic donor card. Those willing to register can do so at the Ministry of Health and Prevention (MoHAP) website: https://mohap.gov.ae/en/services/social/organ-donation