Ras Al Khaimah witnessed a harrowing incident on April 24 when seven-year-old Mouza Kaseb suffered severe burns during a fire-related experiment with her cousins. The accident coincided with her birthday.
The young girl and her cousins attempted to recreate a social media trick involving dolls and fire. Mouza was wearing a kandoura mkhawara, a traditional dress adorned with beads and artwork, which caught fire quickly.
“She ran outside instead of coming to us, and the midday sun made it worse,” her mother, Um Mouza, explained. Her brother rushed her to Sheikh Khalifa Specialty Hospital before she was transferred to Sheikh Shakhbout Medical City (SSMC) in Abu Dhabi.
At SSMC’s Burn Centre, Mouza underwent several weeks of treatment, including biodegradable temporising matrix (BTM) therapy and Meek grafting. “We stayed for 66 days. The medical team briefed us on every step and minimized pain during procedures,” her mother said.
Dr Simon Myers, Consultant and Division Chair of Burn Surgery at SSMC, highlighted the innovative treatments used. “BTM is a polyurethane foam that allows blood vessels to grow into it, providing better long-term appearance of scars,” he explained.
Meek grafting was also used to expand small patches of Mouza’s skin up to six times their size, ensuring adequate coverage for her extensive injuries. “Children scar worse than adults, so these techniques are crucial,” Dr. Myers added.
Despite the trauma, Mouza adapted quickly. She made friends, exchanged gifts, and even expressed a desire to become a physiotherapist. “Now no more pain. The scars will heal with time,” she said.
The Burn Centre also manages severe adult cases. Dr. Myers shared the story of a man in his 50s with burns covering 90 percent of his body. “His survival was against the odds, requiring repeated surgeries and donor skin,” he said.
Dr. Myers emphasized that many burn injuries are preventable. He noted that children’s clothing often catches fire during play with lighters or matches, and gas canister leaks are another frequent cause.
While Mouza’s journey was life-changing, her resilience offers hope. Her mother noted that recovery continues for months, with scars improving over time. “It takes patience and care, but she’s thriving,” she said.
Mouza’s story serves as a reminder of both the dangers of fire play and the life-saving advances in pediatric burn treatment available in the UAE.