Pink October 2026: Get Screened, Find Support and Give Back
For many families in the UAE, breast cancer is an experience they've been through, or a reminder to look after their own health and the people they love.
October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and across the Emirates, hospitals, charities, businesses and communities are finding meaningful ways to support those affected.
Whether you're looking for a breast screening, hoping to support a loved one or simply want to contribute to a good cause, here are some initiatives worth knowing about this month.
1. Pink Caravan: Free Breast Screenings Across the UAE
One of the UAE's most established breast cancer awareness initiatives, Pink Caravan, is back with an extensive programme of free screenings throughout October.
Organised by Friends of Cancer Patients, the campaign includes more than 75 planned clinic activations, bringing breast health services closer to communities across the seven emirates.
Nine fixed screening locations include City Walk in Dubai, Mushrif Mall in Abu Dhabi, Mall of Al Ain, Makani Zakher, Al Majaz Waterfront and Al Dhaid Mall in Sharjah, Mall of UAQ, RAK Mall and Lulu Mall in Fujairah.
Mobile clinics will also visit communities, shopping destinations and workplaces. Free clinical breast examinations are available to eligible visitors, with mammograms offered at designated mobile clinics, subject to eligibility.
When: Throughout October 2026
Cost: Free for eligible participants
Details: Pink Caravan
2. Al Jalila Foundation: Supporting Treatment, Research and Recovery
Breast cancer awareness goes beyond early detection. It's also about ensuring women can access treatment and receive support throughout their journey.
This October, Al Jalila Foundation is running the 12th edition of its annual #PINKtober campaign, bringing together more than 250 partners and supporters to raise funds for breast cancer treatment and research.
Since 2013, the Foundation has supported treatment for 1,436 women with breast cancer and funded 14 research studies.
Its Majlis Al Amal community centre also provides a welcoming space for patients and survivors to connect and support one another.
When: Throughout October 2026
How to participate: Support participating campaigns or donate directly
Details: Al Jalila Foundation #PINKtober
3. Umm Al Emarat Park: Mammogram Trucks and Community Health Checks
In Abu Dhabi, Umm Al Emarat Park is making breast health services more accessible through two community initiatives.
On 23 and 24 October, Burjeel Holdings will bring a mammogram truck to the park, alongside free health check-ups and breast health awareness activities.
Then, on 30 October, Sheikh Shakhbout Medical City will host another community event featuring a mammogram truck, walkathon, giveaways and wellness activities.
It's an opportunity to learn more about breast health in a familiar community setting. Screening eligibility, mammogram charges, if any, and booking arrangements should be confirmed with the organisers.
When: 23–24 and 30 October 2026
Where: Umm Al Emarat Park, Abu Dhabi
Details: Umm Al Emarat Park's October programme
4. Harmony for Hope: Breast Health Awareness at Expo City Dubai
The Women's Pavilion at Expo City Dubai is joining forces with the Dubai Health Authority for Harmony for Hope, a gathering centred on breast health, early detection and the experiences of those affected by cancer.
Visitors can attend expert discussions, hear personal stories and take part in wellbeing activities. Free breast screenings and ultrasound examinations have also been announced as part of the event.
When: Sunday, 25 October, 9am–4pm
Where: Women's Pavilion, Expo City Dubai
Cost: Free
Details: Expo City Dubai
5. Piece of You x Medcare: A Complimentary Breast Screening with Every Order
Dubai jewellery brand Piece of You has teamed up with Medcare to encourage women to make their health a priority.
Throughout October, every Piece of You order comes with a complimentary breast screening at participating Medcare hospitals.
Screenings can be accessed at Medcare Women & Children Hospital, Medcare Royal Speciality Hospital and Medcare hospitals in Sharjah on King Faisal and Sheikh Saqr Streets.
It's a thoughtful collaboration that gives customers something beyond their jewellery purchase: an opportunity to look after themselves.
When: Throughout October 2026
Offer: Complimentary breast screening with every order
Details: pieceofyou.ae
6. Sew Pink: Make Something Meaningful for Breast Cancer Patients
Sometimes, a small act of kindness can bring real comfort.
On Saturday, 17 October, Times Square Center is hosting Sew Pink, a volunteer initiative organised by Brother International in collaboration with Brest Friends.
Volunteers will help sew post-surgery comfort cushions and drainage bag holders for breast cancer patients across the UAE.
Each handmade item will become part of a Care Pack, complete with a handwritten message of encouragement, before being distributed to patients through partner medical institutions.
All sewing materials and equipment will be provided.
When: Saturday, 17 October, 10am–7pm
Where: Picnic Square, First Floor, Times Square Center, Dubai
Cost: Free
Register: Sew Pink volunteer registration
7. Complimentary Coaching for Individuals and Families Affected by Breast Cancer
Breast cancer doesn't only affect the person receiving a diagnosis. It can also have a lasting emotional impact on children, partners and other family members.
Dubai-based coach Megan is offering complimentary coaching sessions throughout October for adults and adolescents who have been affected by breast cancer, either personally or through someone they love.
The offer extends to those currently navigating the experience as well as those affected in the past.
Sessions are available in person in Dubai or online, with no obligation to book additional sessions.
When: Throughout October 2026
Cost: Complimentary
Details: View Megan's Instagram announcement
8. Pink Power 3: A Community Day of Awareness and Support
Times Square Center will also host the third edition of Pink Power, a free community event dedicated to breast cancer awareness.
Organised in partnership with Creative Makers Events and supporting Al Jalila Foundation's Breast Cancer Awareness Campaign, the event brings together healthcare experts, local businesses and community members.
Visitors can access free medical check-ups, listen to talks by specialists including oncologists and nutritionists, and take part in arts, crafts and wellness workshops.
There will also be live performances, a Pink Flash Mob and a pop-up market showcasing homegrown businesses.
When: Sunday, 25 October, 10am–8pm
Where: Ground Floor, Times Square Center, Dubai
Cost: Free
Details: @pinkpowerbycme and @timessquaredxb
9. FITPink: Walk, Run or Cycle for Awareness
For those who would like to show their support through movement, Dubai Holding Communities is organising Pink Run events as part of its FITPink initiative.
Participants can choose from 2km, 4km and 8km routes, making the activities accessible to different fitness levels.
The remaining October events will take place at Palm Jumeirah Boardwalk and Dubai Science Park.
When: 17 and 24 October, 6am–10am
Where: Palm Jumeirah Boardwalk (17 October) and Dubai Science Park (24 October)
Cost: Free
Details: Dubai Holding Communities
10. Pink Ladies Games: Get Your Friends Together for a Good Cause
The fifth Dubai edition of the Pink Ladies Games takes place on 31 October as part of the Dubai Fitness Challenge.
Women can come together in teams of five to take on six activities testing teamwork, fitness and coordination.
It's an opportunity to get moving, enjoy time with friends and help raise awareness about breast cancer.
When: Saturday, 31 October, 7am–1pm
Where: The Sevens Stadium, Dubai
Cost: AED 1,000 per team of five
Details: Dubai Fitness Challenge
11. INTENDED Café: A Pink Treat That Gives Back
In Abu Dhabi, INTENDED Café is marking Breast Cancer Awareness Month with two limited-edition treats.
The Pink Cloud Matcha, priced at AED 43, features iced matcha topped with raspberry and coconut foam. For every cup sold, AED 3 will be donated in support of breast cancer awareness.
There's also a Double Chocolate Raspberry Cookie, priced at AED 20, for those looking for something sweet.
When: Throughout October 2026
Where: INTENDED Café, Al Jiwa-a Street, Al Nahyan, Abu Dhabi
Details: intendeduae.com
A gentle reminder from Parenting Plus
Taking care of yourself is just as important as looking after everyone around you.
If you've been meaning to book a check-up, this could be a good time to speak with your healthcare provider about the screening that's right for you. And if you've noticed any changes in your breasts, don't wait for a screening event to seek medical advice.
If someone you love is going through breast cancer, support doesn't always have to involve grand gestures. Sometimes it's offering a lift to an appointment, helping with the children, preparing a meal or simply being there to listen.
Because awareness matters, but so does what we do with it.
Screening availability, eligibility and event details may change. Please check with the respective organisers or healthcare providers before attending.
