Dr. Dale Schmoll, DC CEO, Director, VIP Services
In 2001, amidst the vibrant and rapidly modernizing cityscape of Abu Dhabi, Chiropractic UAE was born. At its helm was Dr. Dale Schmoll, a seasoned chiropractor with nearly a decade of success in the United States. The journey to establish the first federally recognized chiropractic clinic in the UAE began not only as a professional challenge but as a mission to bring a transformative form of healthcare to an underserved region.
“I wanted more,” Dr. Schmoll recalls. “After building my practice in the U.S. from the ground up—designing policies, staffing, and growing a loyal patient base—I felt the urge to expand chiropractic care to parts of the world where its benefits were largely unknown.” This vision aligned serendipitously with the Al Nahyan family’s desire to bring chiropractic’s holistic advantages to the UAE after experiencing its transformative potential through connections with American chiropractors.
With his wife, who was expecting their first child, Dr. Schmoll moved to Abu Dhabi to set up the UAE’s first chiropractic clinic licensed by the Federal Ministry of Health. By February 2001, the clinic welcomed its first patient, marking the beginning of a journey that would redefine healthcare for thousands in the Emirates.
Evolving Healthcare in the UAE
Chiropractic UAE has come a long way since its inception. As the clinic approaches its 25th anniversary in 2026, its evolution reflects a commitment to patient-centered care. “In the early days, we relied heavily on translators to bridge language barriers with patients,” says Dr. Schmoll. Today, a majority of patients speak English or bring family members to assist, demonstrating how chiropractic care has permeated diverse communities.
Technological advancements have also enhanced the clinic’s services. Cutting-edge diagnostic tools and adjunctive therapies now complement traditional chiropractic adjustments, addressing soft tissues, reducing inflammation, and promoting holistic recovery. From laser therapy to decompression equipment, Chiropractic UAE continues to integrate innovative solutions to serve its growing patient base effectively.
A Unique Approach to Long-Term Wellness
Chiropractic care stands apart from conventional healthcare by focusing on the root causes of neuromusculoskeletal issues rather than merely alleviating symptoms. “A mechanical problem cannot be solved with a chemical solution,” Dr. Schmoll emphasizes. “Surgery should always remain a last option.”
By restoring spinal alignment and ensuring the health of the nervous system, chiropractic adjustments address the underlying issues causing pain, stiffness, or loss of mobility. Beyond immediate relief, routine chiropractic care promotes sustained wellness. “Like maintaining an exercise regimen or healthy diet, ongoing chiropractic care ensures your joints last longer and helps you continue doing the things you love,” he explains.
Dr. Schmoll often references Thomas Edison’s visionary quote: ‘The doctor of the future will give no medicine but will interest his patients in the care of the human frame, diet, and the cause and prevention of disease.’ This philosophy underpins Chiropractic UAE’s mission to educate patients about their bodies and empower them toward long-term health.
Overcoming Challenges, One Adjustment at a Time
Launching chiropractic care in a region unfamiliar with the practice presented significant challenges. In the early 2000s, Dr. Schmoll and his team dedicated countless hours to educating the public and medical community through workshops, snail-mail campaigns, and presentations.
An iconic poster created during this time featured camels to illustrate the progression of chiropractic care: a three-hump camel represented acute care, a two-hump camel corrective care, and a one-hump camel wellness care. This creative approach resonated with patients, making complex concepts relatable and setting the tone for a patient-first philosophy that endures today.
However, the rise of viral TikTok videos showcasing exaggerated chiropractic adjustments has brought new hurdles. “These clips are often dramatized for clicks and can mislead patients,” Dr. Schmoll notes. His team works diligently to educate patients about the realities of chiropractic care, ensuring treatments are safe, personalized, and rooted in medical necessity.
Tailored Services for Every Patient
Chiropractic UAE prides itself on its comprehensive offerings. From spinal adjustments to advanced therapies such as shockwave, electro muscle stimulation, and decompression, the clinic is equipped to handle a wide range of conditions. The inclusion of x-ray facilities and on-site physiotherapy ensures that patients receive seamless care under one roof.
What truly distinguishes Chiropractic UAE is its expertise in treating spinal subluxations—misalignments in the spine that can disrupt neurological, structural, and functional harmony. The clinic’s customized techniques cater to patients of all ages, addressing conditions like scoliosis, sports injuries, and herniated discs with precision and care.
Empowering Patients and Team Alike
Patient education is at the heart of Chiropractic UAE’s care model. “We meet each patient where they are,” Dr. Schmoll explains. Treatment plans are tailored based on individual needs, x-ray findings, and personal health goals. For those seeking independence from ongoing care, programs focusing on rehabilitation, nutrition, and stress reduction are offered.
Equally vital is the clinic’s commitment to cultivating a motivated, skilled team. Under the leadership of Clinic Directors and Managing Partners Dr. Reem Awad, with over 18 years of service, and Dr. Rashid Hassen, with over 10 years, the team thrives on a culture of ‘CANI—Constant and Never-Ending Improvement.’ Weekly staff meetings and ongoing professional development empower every practitioner and support staff member to deliver outstanding care. This dedication not only ensures exceptional patient outcomes but also fosters a supportive and dynamic workplace.
The Future of Chiropractic UAE
With plans to open a new branch in the Emirates and expand services to include gender-specific medical massage centers and state-of-the-art physiotherapy suites, the future of Chiropractic UAE looks bright. With the UAE Health Authorities’ approval, Dr. Schmoll also envisions integrating emerging technologies, such as wearable neurotech and frequency-based healing devices, to further enhance patient outcomes.
Dr. Schmoll’s pioneering journey has come full circle as he has now repatriated back to the USA. While no longer based in the UAE full-time, he continues to play an integral role in the clinic’s operations. “I consult daily with the managing directors and visit each clinic quarterly,” he explains. This ongoing involvement ensures that the clinic’s standards remain uncompromised and that its legacy of excellence continues.
As lifestyles become increasingly sedentary and exposure to environmental toxins rises, the demand for holistic, preventative care will only grow. “The post-COVID era has made people more aware of their health,” Dr. Schmoll observes. Chiropractic UAE is poised to lead this shift, championing a healthcare model that prioritizes wellness over medication.
After 25 years, Chiropractic UAE remains a trailblazer, not just in the Emirates but across the region. Dr. Schmoll’s pioneering spirit, coupled with his team’s unwavering dedication, continues to redefine healthcare, one adjustment at a time.