ABU DHABI: An Egyptian believed to be the world’s heaviest woman died Monday of heart and kidney failure at an Abu Dhabi hospital, following months of treatment to help her lose weight and one day walk again.
A team of more than 20 doctors had been caring for the bedridden Eman Ahmed Abd El Aty, 37, since her arrival at Burjeel Hospital in May.
El Aty first sought treatment in India, traveling from the port city of Alexandria to Mumbai aboard a specially modified Airbus in early February.
She had a long wait as no airlines were willing to fly her due to her health complications.
She had not left home in more than two decades and weighed around 500 kilograms (1,100 pounds).
Her request for an Indian visa was initially denied, but she was granted passage after the doctor who volunteered to do her initial surgery tweeted a plea for help directly to India’s foreign minister, who intervened.
She underwent bariatric surgery — a stomach-shrinking bypass procedure — the following month, initially shedding 100 kilograms at Saifee Hospital.
Her family told the doctor that as a child she was diagnosed with elephantiasis, a condition that causes the limbs and other body parts to swell, leaving her almost immobile.
By the time she left Mumbai, doctors said El Aty had lost more than half her original weight.
El Aty left Mumbai when her sister clashed with the hospital, disputing her progress and treatment.
In Abu Dhabi’s Burjeel Hospital, doctors were hoping to help El Aty walk again, according to a report in the Indian Express.
El Aty celebrated her birthday last month with her family and doctors by her side.
The Alexandria native had dreamed to one day visit the beach again, the Indian Express said, quoting her sister.
’World’s heaviest woman’ dies in Abu Dhabi hospital
’World’s heaviest woman’ dies in Abu Dhabi hospital
Where We Are Going Today: Ziba Restaurant in Riyadh
- A meal for one person can range roughly between SR100 ($27) and SR150 depending on the dishes ordered. While this places the restaurant in the mid-range category for Riyadh dining, ordering several dishes to share can quickly raise the overall bill
Riyadh’s dining scene continues to expand, and one of the newest additions bringing a touch of Persian sophistication to the capital is Ziba.
With roots in Alkhobar, the restaurant has built a reputation for blending traditional flavors with an elegant dining experience.
When I arrived, the first thing that stood out was the atmosphere. The interior felt thoughtfully curated, with Persian-inspired design elements that create a warm yet refined setting.
Rich carpets, subtle lighting and artistic details add the impression of stepping into a space that celebrates centuries of craftsmanship from the region rather than conforming to modern trends.
The menu features a variety of grilled meats, rice dishes and classic appetizers that highlight the depth of the culinary tradition.
I began with the mezze platter, which offered a colorful introduction to the meal.
One standout was kashk-o-bademjan, a creamy eggplant dish topped with herbs that delivered rich, comforting flavors. It was the kind of starter that invites you to slow down and enjoy each bite.
The main course, however, is where Ziba truly shines. The joojeh kebab — marinated chicken grilled to perfection — arrived tender and lightly charred, paired with fragrant saffron rice.
The rice was fluffy and aromatic, while the chicken carried just enough seasoning to enhance its natural taste.
Another highlight was the mixed grill platter, which allows diners to sample different kebabs in one sitting. Each cut of meat had its own texture and flavor profile, making the dish both generous and satisfying.
Prices are relatively reasonable considering the restaurant’s upscale atmosphere.
A meal for one person can range roughly between SR100 ($27) and SR150 depending on the dishes ordered. While this places the restaurant in the mid-range category for Riyadh dining, ordering several dishes to share can quickly raise the overall bill.
Service throughout the evening was welcoming and attentive. The restaurant was quite busy, which meant the wait for the main course was slightly longer than expected.
To end the meal, I ordered Persian tea, which arrived steaming and fragrant — a simple but perfect conclusion.
Riyadh has no shortage of restaurants, but Ziba manages to stand out by staying true to its roots.
Find more details on @ziba.saudi.
