Revealed: The top 30 healthcare visionaries of 2024

This list celebrates the very best leaders in the Middle East’s healthcare industry, highlighting individuals who have not only achieved remarkable success in their respective fields, but have significantly contributed to the advancement of healthcare in the region.

Healthcare Visionaries 2024	Healthcare Visionaries 2024
01. Dr. Sulaiman Al Habib	16. Basel Ziyadeh
02. John Sunil	17. Pelin Incesu
03. Dr. Reem Osman	18. Naser Al Yammahi
04. Said Darwazah	19. Dr. Bashar Bizrah
05. Shaista Asif	20. Akram Bouchenaki
06. Dr. Hanan Mohamed Al Kuwari	21. Ayman Tamer
07. Hasan Jasem Al Nowais	22. Dr. Majid Ibrahim Al Fayyadh
08. Alexander Jankuloski	23. Hady El Khoury
09. Sherif Beshara	24. Ihsan Almarzooqi
10. Zaid S. Al Khayyat	25. John Ireland
11. Alisha Moopen	26. Dr. Michael H. Fakih
12. Jobilal M. Vavachan	27. Masood Jaffery
13. Leah Cotterill	28. Ole Per Maloy
14. Akbar Moideen Thumbay	29. Raza Siddiqui
15. Mutasim Alireza	30. Mana Bin Mansour Almana

Name: Dr. Sulaiman Al Habib
Rank: 01
Designation: Chairman of the Board of Directors
Company: Dr Sulaiman Al Habib Medical Services Group and Dr Sulaiman Al Habib Investment Company
Country: Saudi Arabia

Dr. Sulaiman Al Habib is the Chairman of the Board of Directors for both Dr Sulaiman Al Habib Medical Services Group (HMG) and Dr Sulaiman Al Habib Investment Company. With a strong background in paediatrics, Dr. Al Habib headed the Department of Paediatrics at the Security Forces Hospital in Riyadh from 1988 to 1991.

He earned his Bachelor’s degree in Medicine and Surgery from King Saud University in Riyadh in 1977 and completed a fellowship in Paediatrics from the British Royal College of Physicians in 1984. As the largest shareholder of HMG, Dr. Al Habib has elevated the group to a leading position in the healthcare industry, with a strong presence and reputation across the Gulf region.

Establishment and growth of HMG

Established in 1995 and originally known as the Olaya Medical Complex, HMG is one of Saudi Arabia’s fastest-growing healthcare organisations, operating 20 healthcare facilities in Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and Bahrain. The group’s growth plan has positioned it to meet the rising demand for quality healthcare services. In Q1 2024, HMG reported a 12.60 percent year-on-year increase in net profit to $147 million, up from $130.9 million. Revenues grew by 9.30 percent year-on-year to $673.3 million, compared to $616.9 million in the same period.

Dr Sulaiman Al Habib Hospital

Dr Sulaiman Al Habib Hospital in the UAE is part of the largest private healthcare provider in the Kingdom. The hospital began operations in 2015 and has since been committed to providing acute, specialist-oriented, multi-disciplinary healthcare to the people in Dubai and the wider community. With 30 years of experience, the hospital’s mission is to provide the latest medical facilities and innovative healthcare services of high value to individuals.

Specialities offered

The hospital offers a wide range of specialities, including cardiology, neurology, IVF, psychology, pulmonology, and more. This comprehensive approach ensures that patients receive high-quality care across various medical disciplines.

Leadership and vision

Under Dr. Al Habib’s leadership, HMG continues to focus on delivering exceptional healthcare services. The group’s success is driven by its commitment to quality, innovation, and patient-centric care. Dr Sulaiman Al Habib Hospital’s dedication to providing cutting-edge medical facilities and innovative healthcare solutions has solidified its reputation as a leading healthcare provider in the region.

Name: John Sunil
Rank: 02
Designation: CEO
Company: Burjeel Holdings
Country: UAE

For the last two decades, Burjeel Holdings has firmly established itself as a pillar in the region’s healthcare landscape. Founded on the principles of patient-centric care by Dr. Shamsheer Vayalil, the Group operates some of the most advanced healthcare facilities in the GCC. Today, it has a diverse portfolio comprising 83 assets, including 17 hospitals, 43 medical centres, and 15 pharmacies. Its flagship facility, Burjeel Medical City (BMC), stands as a hub for complex care services and ranks among the largest tertiary care hospitals in the UAE.

Upholding excellence across the GCC

Operating across the UAE, Oman, and a growing segment in Saudi Arabia, the brands under Burjeel Holdings—BMC, Burjeel, Medeor, LLH, Lifecare, PhysioTherabia, and Tajmeel—uphold a reputation for excellence. Thirteen of its facilities are JCI-accredited, highlighting the Group’s commitment to maintaining the highest standards of healthcare.

Leadership and vision

John Sunil, CEO of Burjeel Holdings, has played a key role in the Group’s journey. His focus on translating the Group’s vision and purpose into actionable priorities has driven the elevation of utilisation across Burjeel’s world-class assets and the expansion of its service portfolio.

Under Sunil’s leadership, Burjeel Holdings has prioritised the creation of a comprehensive ecosystem for complex care. The Group is building its expertise in complex care by focusing on key areas such as oncology, advanced orthopedics, advanced gynecology, fetal medicine and paediatric specialties, multi-organ transplant, and bone marrow transplant.

Innovating healthcare delivery

Sunil’s leadership has ushered in a new era of healthcare innovation, harnessing state-of-the-art technology and attracting world-renowned medical talent. He leads high-value collaborations to revolutionise healthcare delivery. From deploying Oracle Cerner for EMR transformation and building a connected healthcare ecosystem to leveraging robotics for precision surgery, Burjeel Holdings is leading the way in innovation.

A recent milestone is the opening of the Burjeel Cancer Institute (BCI) at BMC. BCI stands as the centrepiece of Burjeel’s cancer care network, spanning facilities in Abu Dhabi, Al Ain, Al Dhafra, Sharjah, and Dubai.

Commitment to medical education and research

Burjeel Holdings’ commitment to medical education and research is evident through initiatives like establishing the Burjeel Institute for Global Health in the US. The Group has also partnered with Colombia-based Keralty to jointly develop and operate an integrated healthcare ecosystem to provide affordable health services in MENA.

The journey of John Sunil

Sunil’s journey at Burjeel Holdings has seen him rise from Financial Controller to Chief Operations Officer, Regional CEO of Burjeel brands, and CEO in 2022. As CEO, he develops and executes strategies for business growth, overcoming complex challenges, and delivering value for stakeholders.

A strategic leader, Sunil has a track record of achieving extraordinary growth, revenue, operational performance, and profitability. His extensive experience in revenue building and high-level operational initiatives, including infrastructure design, process re-engineering, turnaround management, and reorganisation, has been instrumental in the Group’s success. He continues to navigate complex business challenges and make high-stake decisions with experience-based judgment, a solid work ethic, and irreproachable integrity.

Sunil’s management inspires a team of dedicated and compassionate healthcare professionals at Burjeel Holdings, united in their mission to advance patient outcomes and find innovative solutions to complex healthcare problems. Under his leadership, Burjeel Holdings is well-positioned to expand its legacy of excellence in the healthcare sector.

Name: Dr. Reem Osman
Rank: 03
Designation: Regional CEO
Company: Saudi German Health
Country: UAE

Dr. Reem Osman has been the Regional CEO of Saudi German Health (SGH) since May 2021, bringing over two decades of expertise in healthcare to the role. Under her leadership, SGH has solidified its position in Dubai, thriving in both the Middle East’s flourishing healthcare industry and the medical tourism market.

Dr. Osman holds a Medical degree from Tishreen University of Medicine in Syria and furthered her education with a Master’s degree in Business Administration and a Master’s degree in Ophthalmology and Eye Surgery from Wollongong University in Sydney, Australia. She also holds a certificate in Management Healthcare Delivery from Harvard Business School.

Company overview

SGH, founded by the Batterjee family, operates 18 facilities across Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Egypt, Yemen, Morocco, and Pakistan. As part of one of the largest hospital groups in the MENA region, SGH Dubai provides a broad spectrum of medical services at an international level, including critical care, various specialities, and sub-specialities. It also boasts one of the largest emergency departments in the private sector.

Financial performance

In Q1 2024, SGH achieved a net profit of $13.9 million, a 3.63 percent increase from $13.4 million in Q1 2023. Revenues rose by 8.02 percent to $184 million as of 31 March 2024, up from $170.3 million in Q1 2023. Dr. Osman’s leadership continues to drive SGH’s success and growth in the competitive healthcare landscape of the Middle East.

Name: Said Darwazah
Rank: 04
Designation: Executive Chairman
Company: Hikma Pharmaceuticals
Country: Jordan

Said Darwazah served as CEO of Hikma Pharmaceuticals from July 2007 to February 2018, and from June 2022 to August 2023. He has also been the Executive Chairman since May 2014. From 1994 to 2003, he was Chairman and CEO of Hikma’s group holding company. Additionally, he served as the Minister of Health for the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan from 2003 to 2006. Darwazah’s extensive experience is backed by strong academic qualifications, including an Industrial Engineering degree from Purdue University and an MBA from INSEAD.

Leadership and contributions

Darwazah’s leadership extends beyond Hikma Pharmaceuticals. He holds several prominent positions: Chairman of Royal Jordanian Airlines and Dead Sea Touristic & Real Estate Investments, Vice Chairman of Capital Bank, Jordan, and board member of INSEAD and Dash Ventures Limited. He is also the Chairman of the Board at the Queen Rania Foundation.

Company overview

Hikma Pharmaceuticals, launched over four decades ago in the MENA region, has grown remarkably, establishing a significant presence in the US, Canada, the MENA region, and Europe. Today, the company operates 29 manufacturing plants and eight R&D hubs, focusing on three main business lines; injectables, branded, and generics.

Financial performance

In 2023, Hikma Pharmaceuticals secured $2,875 million in revenue, which is an increase of 14 percent from $2,517 million in 2022. It also saw the company secure a 30 percent increase in operating profit; $367 million from $282 million in 2022. Under Darwazah’s leadership, Hikma Pharmaceuticals has not only expanded its global footprint but reinforced its commitment to quality and innovation in the pharmaceutical industry. His vast experience and strategic vision continue to drive the company’s growth and success.

Name: Shaista Asif
Rank: 05
Designation: Co-founder and Group CEO
Company: PureHealth Group
Country: UAE

Shaista Asif has had a distinguished career spanning over two decades, including 17 years in the healthcare industry. In 2006, she co-founded PureHealth and has since driven its growth and transformation into the largest healthcare group in the Middle East. As Group Chief Executive Officer, Asif’s vision fuels PureHealth’s continuous innovation. She leads the Group’s diverse portfolio, which encompasses hospitals, clinics, laboratories, health insurance, healthcare procurement, and health tech solutions.

Company overview

PureHealth is a key player in the region’s healthcare landscape, with a vast network of over 100 hospitals, 147 laboratories, and more than 300 clinics, supported by over 56,000 dedicated employees. At the core of PureHealth’s success is its holistic ecosystem, which includes prominent entities such as Abu Dhabi Health Services Company (SEHA), National Health Insurance Company (Daman), Ambulatory Healthcare Services (AHS), Rafed, PureLab, One Health, The Life Corner, and The Medical Office.

Global expansion and financial performance

PureHealth’s success extends beyond the Middle East. The Group has significantly expanded its global reach, including acquiring a stake in Ardent Health Services, the United States’ fourth-largest privately held healthcare group. The Group aims to further its global expansion through additional acquisitions.

In Q1 2024, PureHealth reported net profit growth of $133.6 million and revenue of $1.66 billion. The Group achieved a robust revenue growth of 52 percent, reaching $1.66 billion, and an 85 percent year-on-year increase in hospital revenue, totalling $1.31 billion. The growth was driven by a 10 percent year-on-year surge in total patient volumes, reaching 1.5 million patients, and a 10 percent increase in bed occupancy rates to 71 percent. The upward trajectory was supported by the consolidation of recent 100 percent acquisitions of Sheikh Shakhbout Medical City (SSMC) in Abu Dhabi and Circle Health Group in the UK.

In addition to achievements in the hospitals segment, the insurance sector recorded a revenue increase of 13 percent year-on-year to $435.6 million in Q1 2024, driven by higher gross written premiums, reflecting the growing demand for Daman’s insurance offerings. The procurement segment further supported revenue growth, with a 4 percent increase to $299.5 million in Q1 2024.

Profitability and asset growth

In terms of profitability, the Group’s gross profit reached approximately $408.3 million in Q1 2024, marking a 6 percent year-on-year increase, achieving a gross margin of around 24 percent. The profitability is attributed to an enhanced patient mix, reduced utilisation rates across the insurance segment, and successful operational streamlining and cost optimisation initiatives.

Net profit for PureHealth was notably strong at approximately $133.6 million, up by around $74 million from Q1 2023, with a margin improvement of approximately 2.5 percentage points to 8 percent. As of 31 March 2024, PureHealth reported total assets of approximately $12.8 billion, up from around $7.6 billion in Q1 2023, which includes a total cash balance of $2.2 billion.

Name: Dr. Hanan Mohamed Al Kuwari
Rank: 06
Designation: Managing Director
Company: Hamad Medical Corporation (HMC)
Country: Qatar

Her Excellency Dr. Hanan Mohamed Al Kuwari has been a pivotal figure at Hamad Medical Corporation (HMC), where she has held the position of Managing Director since 2007. Dr. Al Kuwari began her career at HMC’s Women’s Hospital in 1996 and steadily advanced through the ranks to become Managing Director. Her extensive experience also includes roles at the World Health Organisation (WHO), Reuters, and work as a freelance health reporter and writer.

Educational background

Dr. Al Kuwari’s educational achievements are notable, with a PhD in Healthcare Management from Brunel University in the UK. Her academic background has significantly contributed to her leadership and strategic vision at HMC.

Responsibilities and achievements

As Managing Director, Dr. Al Kuwari is responsible for overseeing the operational and strategic management of HMC, ensuring the delivery of high-quality healthcare services. She has played a crucial role in the preparation and development of Qatar’s National Health and Public Health Strategies, monitoring their progress and implementation. Her dedication and expertise have been instrumental in shaping the healthcare landscape in Qatar.

Company overview

Hamad Medical Corporation (HMC) is the primary provider of secondary and tertiary healthcare in Qatar and one of the leading hospital providers in the Middle East. For over four decades, HMC has been dedicated to delivering the safest, most effective, and compassionate care to all its patients. HMC manages 12 hospitals, including nine specialist hospitals and three community hospitals, as well as the National Ambulance Service and home and residential care services.

Accreditation and expansion

In January 2016, HMC became the first healthcare system globally to have all its hospitals accredited by Joint Commission International under the Academic Medical Center accreditation programme.

Additionally, since 2011, the National Ambulance Service, Home Healthcare Service, Stroke Service, and Palliative Care have all received this accreditation. To meet the needs of a rapidly growing population, HMC announced its plans to expand its capacity through to 2030. The expansion included three newly opened hospitals in Hamad Bin Khalifa Medical City: Qatar Rehabilitation Institute, Ambulatory Care Center, and Women’s Wellness and Research Center.

Responsibilities and achievements

In addition to her role at HMC, Dr. Al Kuwari has been serving as the Minister of Public Health since January 2016. In this capacity, she oversees all aspects of the Ministry of Public Health, ensuring the quality and effectiveness of services provided by both public and private health service providers. She also manages public health programmes, including disease prevention, occupational health, food safety, environmental safety, and national immunisation.

Name: Hasan Jasem Al Nowais
Rank: 07
Designation: Managing Director and Group CEO
Company: M42
Country: UAE

Hasan Jasem Al Nowais is a distinguished business leader currently serving as the Managing Director and Group CEO of M42, a tech-enabled global healthcare company headquartered in Abu Dhabi. Under Al Nowais’ leadership, M42 is transforming the traditional healthcare landscape by harnessing advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence and cutting-edge sequencing. This approach enables greater personalised, precise, and preventative care through M42’s extensive global network.

Company overview

M42 is dedicated to reshaping the future of health sustainably, with technology as a key enabler. M42 aims to empower individuals by anticipating and preventing health conditions while maintaining a strong consideration for environmental sustainability.

Comprehensive healthcare services

M42 offers a comprehensive range of healthcare services, from primary care to specialised treatment options, enhanced by personalised medicine and advanced healthtech solutions. The company manages over 450 medical facilities in 26 countries, employing more than 20,000 professionals. M42 operates the region’s first academic health system, combining innovative research, top-class education, and excellent clinical care.

Additional leadership roles

Aside from M42, Al Nowais holds a number of influential positions, including Chairman of Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi, Rosewood Abu Dhabi, and Four Seasons Hotel Abu Dhabi. He is also a Board Member of Yas Holdings and Chairman of Yas Holdings Healthcare Committee.

Previous roles and achievements

Before M42, Al Nowais was the Chief Executive Officer at Mubadala Health, the integrated healthcare network of Mubadala Investment Company. There, he played a key role in launching Mubadala Health as an independent entity, growing and integrating its network of facilities. He focused on enhancing patient experience, pursuing innovative solutions, driving sector-wide collaboration, and forging global partnerships to boost clinical outcomes.

Al Nowais joined Mubadala Investment Company (MIC) in 2007, where he oversaw international hospitality projects across the United States, the Middle East, and Asia. These projects included the Viceroy Hotel Group, Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts, and Rosewood Hotels and Resorts. He also served as Chief Administrative Officer of Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi, successfully directing diversified strategic functions.

Educational background

Al Nowais is a Finance graduate from the American University Washington College of Law and holds certifications from Cornell University and Harvard Medical School, among others.

Name: Alexander Jankuloski
Rank: 08
Designation: CEO
Company: Kuwait Hospital
Country: Kuwait

Alexander Jankuloski has over 15 years of experience in healthcare management, driven by his belief that personal leadership is essential to improving patient care. His background as a nurse has given him invaluable insight into the experiences of patients and their families within healthcare organisations. This perspective keeps him grounded and focused on the importance of patient-centred care.

Leadership and achievements

Jankuloski has extensive experience across the Gulf Region and has spent the last nine years in Chief Executive roles, successfully leading organisations through clinical, reputational, and financial turnarounds. Since July 2020, he has served as the CEO of Kuwait Hospital, a leading private healthcare organisation in Kuwait.

Company overview

Located in Sabah As Salim, Kuwait Hospital employs over 700 health professionals, operates 12 theatres, and has more than 140 patient rooms and over 40 specialities. Founded in 2005, the hospital achieved a significant milestone in 2019 when the Swedish healthcare provider GHP took over its operations, further solidifying its commitment to excellence in patient care.

Commitment to excellence

Kuwait Hospital is dedicated to the well-being and satisfaction of its patients. The hospital continuously strives to raise the bar of excellence in services and safety. Its Performance Development & Innovation Department focuses on healthcare innovation and digitalisation, ensuring that patients are well-informed about the hospital’s services and treatments, improving care quality, ensuring a safe environment for clients and employees, and upholding international healthcare industry standards.

Innovation and education

The hospital’s multidisciplinary committees engage all levels of management, from the Chief Medical Officer to healthcare professionals, in the pursuit of excellence. The hospital invests in employees’ continuing education and training while conducting insightful research in the healthcare and medical fields.

Organisational culture

Kuwait Hospital’s unique organisational culture is built on the foundation of safety, quality, trust, and innovation, with patient and community well-being at its core. The hospital offers advanced services, including transoesophageal echocardiograms, MAKO Smart Robotics, and Brainlab Robotic Systems.

Previous roles and vision

In his role as CEO, Jankuloski has brought a wealth of expertise and vision to Kuwait Hospital. Before joining Kuwait Hospital, he was the CEO at Oasis Hospital, now recognised as Kanad Hospital. Under his leadership, Kuwait Hospital continues to grow and evolve, remaining firmly committed to delivering exceptional healthcare services to the community.

Jankuloski emphasises the importance of soft skills in leadership, such as self-regulation, understanding oneself in high-stress situations, and guiding teams through challenges. He believes that healthcare is fundamentally a people business, with success hinging on being attractive to both patients and employees.

Name: Sherif Beshara
Rank: 09
Designation: Group CEO
Company: Mohamed & Obaid AlMulla Group of Companies
Country: UAE

Sherif Beshara is an accomplished leader with extensive experience in the legal industry. Holding a Master’s degree in International Law, his career spans over a decade with significant roles as a legal counsel, Chairman, and currently, Group CEO of Mohamed & Obaid AlMulla Group of Companies. His expertise covers diverse fields including finance, aviation, and corporate sectors, advising CEOs on airline matters, major joint ventures, and uninsured litigations.

Leadership and transformation

Since assuming the role of Group CEO in 2018, Beshara has been instrumental in leading the transformation of Mohamed & Obaid AlMulla Group from a family-run business to a corporate entity. His leadership includes guiding the group’s vision, developing internal audit and corporate compliance programmes, and participating in formulating general management policy. “As one of the UAE’s most respected family-owned businesses, the Mohamed & Obaid AlMulla Group’s growth and dynamism over 70 years have been driven by foresight, excellence, and innovation”, Beshara explains.

Company overview

American Hospital Dubai was established in 1996 by the Mohamed & Obaid AlMulla Group with the vision of bringing American-standard healthcare to the UAE and the wider region. Since its inception, the hospital has positioned itself as a premier healthcare institution, offering world-class, evidence-based primary, secondary, and selected tertiary medical services.

Innovations and milestones

Defined by cutting-edge technology and innovation, American Hospital Dubai prides itself on a team of physicians who are American Board Certified or equivalent. The hospital provides comprehensive treatment and care across more than 40 medical and surgical specialities. Its mission is to improve lives through the highest quality healthcare and leadership in progressive medicine, while its vision is to nurture healthier communities through research and innovation.

Accreditation and network

Since its founding, American Hospital Dubai has reached several key milestones. In 2000, it became the first hospital in the Middle East and the second globally to receive the prestigious JCI accreditation. In 2016, it joined the Mayo Clinic Care Network (MCCN), becoming the first healthcare organisation in the Middle East to do so.

Most recently, in 2023, American Hospital Dubai introduced the first and only autologous stem cell transplant department in Dubai, becoming the first private hospital in the UAE to offer in-house stem cell transplants using patients’ own stem cells without the need for a donor.

Leadership vision

American Hospital Dubai remains at the forefront of medical research, innovation, and patient care, continuing to set benchmarks in healthcare excellence in the region. Sherif Beshara’s leadership and vision continue to propel the Mohamed & Obaid AlMulla Group towards new heights.

His dedication to innovation, training, and sustainability ensures that the group remains a key player in the healthcare sector, delivering exceptional services and setting new standards for the region. Under his guidance, the group is well-positioned to continue its legacy of excellence and contribute significantly to the UAE’s development.

Name: Zaid S. Al Khayyat
Rank: 10
Designation: Managing Director
Company: Al Khayyat Investments (AKI)
Country: UAE

Zaid S. Al Khayyat stands at the forefront of AKI’s next chapter of growth and transformation. As Managing Director, he oversees AKI’s strategic direction, delivers on the company’s growth visions, and drives continuous evolution within the organisation.

Building on the legacy and founding principles established by Dr Saad F. Al Khayyat, Chairman of AKI, Zaid cultivates a culture of excellence and innovation that has allowed the company to achieve new pinnacles of success. With a deep understanding of the regional business landscape, Zaid actively engages AKI’s partners and customers, being truly invested in such relationships.

Company history and growth

Founded in 1982 by Dr Saad F. Al Khayyat, AKI has grown from a single pharmaceutical company in Dubai into a diversified business across the Middle East. Dr Saad’s entrepreneurial vision, people-first approach, and steadfast belief in family values continue to be the driving forces behind AKI’s forward momentum. Today, the company is renowned for delivering specialist products, intelligence, and services that enable people to lead healthier and more active lives.

Leadership and expansion

Under Zaid’s leadership, AKI has continued its tradition of growth and diversification. The company operates across multiple sectors spanning pharmaceuticals, medical equipment, retail, food and non-food consumer goods, fitness, automotive, environmental services, and contracting. Zaid has also spearheaded AKI’s geographical expansion, successfully entering markets such as Saudi Arabia and Egypt, while expanding the company’s presence in Oman, all as part of a broader strategy for the MENA region.

A holistic approach to health

AKI Healthcare stands at the forefront of the healthcare and wellness industry, supporting communities to lead happier and healthier lives. With a workforce of over 1000 medical professionals and more than 4,000 annual pharma registrations, AKI Healthcare continues to advance the industry by persistently innovating and expanding its services to meet the evolving needs of its customers.

In alignment with the UAE’s vision to become a global medical hub, AKI Healthcare operates through three core divisions: AKI Medlab, AKI Pharma, and BinSina Pharmacy. AKI’s Medlab division is a trusted and sought-after partner of cutting-edge medical equipment and consumables.

AKI Pharma has solidified its position in the industry, with its success inspired by a patient-centric approach. Providing an extensive range of advanced products, AKI Pharma holds long-standing partnerships with many of the world’s leading pharmaceutical companies, achieving record sales growth in 2024 and the highest market share for consumer healthcare products for three consecutive years in the UAE.

Meanwhile, BinSina Pharmacy – founded in 1965 – is one of the company’s flagship brands and the UAE’s first pharmacy chain. Today, BinSina Pharmacy sets the standard for quality and customer experience. In the past year alone, BinSina Pharmacy has expanded its reach with new branches in locations across the UAE and Oman, enhancing accessibility and convenience. BinSina has also contributed to the UAE Ministry of Health and Prevention’s Tatmeen platform, enhancing pharmaceutical tracking and public health security.

Additionally, it has broadened its network to include a myriad of local insurance companies. BinSina Pharmacy is constantly introducing innovative patient care services, including video consultations, advanced bone density diagnostics, and the opening of Diabetes Care Centres in Dubai and Abu Dhabi, all of which underscore its commitment to improving healthcare services and patient safety.

AKI’s dedication to innovation in healthcare excellence is reflected in its active participation in major healthcare conferences like DUPHAT and Arab Health.

Name: Alisha Moopen
Rank: 11
Designation: Managing Director and Group CEO
Company: Aster DM Healthcare FZC
Country: UAE

Alisha Moopen serves as the Managing Director and Group CEO of Aster DM Healthcare FZC. Since joining the company as a Director in 2013, she has played a pivotal role in guiding the direction and development of the company, particularly in spearheading the group’s expansion into new markets.

In recognition of her contributions to healthcare, Moopen was elected by the World Economic Forum as a Young Global Leader in 2018. This accolade has inducted her into a five-year programme that brings together like-minded individuals committed to tackling the world’s main challenges, with healthcare being a primary focus.

Educational background

Moopen is a Chartered Accountant from the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Scotland (ICAS) and previously worked with Ernst & Young. She graduated with distinction in Finance & Accounting from the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor. Her life philosophy, “Healthiness is Happiness,” reflects her commitment to enabling quality healthcare globally, characterised by compassion, precision, and excellence.

Focus on women empowerment and mental health

Dedicated to the causes of women empowerment and mental health, Moopen believes in workforce diversity and the strength found in differences. She has actively worked to improve the representation of women in leadership roles, launching the Women in Leadership programme at Aster DM Healthcare, which empowers talented female employees through training and growth opportunities.

Philanthropy and social welfare

Moopen is also a philanthropist, serving as a trustee of the Aster DM Foundation and participating in social welfare initiatives through the Aster Volunteers programme. The programme bridges the gap between those willing to help and those in need. Her focus is on ensuring humanity benefits from scientific advances and personal lifestyle choices, maintaining physical and mental health, and leveraging technology to enhance health outcomes through precision medicine, connected care, and artificial intelligence.

Company overview

Since its inception in 1987, Aster DM Healthcare has grown from a single medical centre to a performance-driven healthcare enterprise. Today, it comprises over 366 medical establishments, including 34 hospitals, 131 clinics, and 502 pharmacies across seven countries. This expansion cements Aster DM Healthcare as a leading healthcare authority in the Middle East and India, and one of the largest and fastest-growing conglomerates in the MENA region.

Portfolio and network

Aster DM Healthcare boasts an expansive portfolio that includes hospitals, clinics, pharmacies, diagnostic centres, educational institutions, healthcare management, and healthcare support systems. Headquartered in Dubai, the Aster DM network now encompasses over 19,657 employees, including doctors, nurses, and other healthcare professionals.

Name: Jobilal M. Vavachan
Rank: 12
Designation: CEO
Company: LIFE Health Care Group
Country: UAE

Jobilal M. Vavachan is the CEO of LIFE Health Care Group, a position he assumed in 2021. His journey with LIFE commenced in 1996, where he started as a Retail Operations Manager, playing a key role in the company’s growth over the years. Prior to re-joining LIFE, Vavachan served as the CEO of Aster Pharmacy from 2013 to 2021, where he significantly contributed to its expansion and success.

Leadership and strategic oversight

Vavachan’s strategic oversight has been instrumental in defining and executing strategies that have transformed LIFE into the largest pharmacy network in the UAE. He also led Aster and the Access clinic network, serving approximately 4.5 million patients annually.

Educational background

Vavachan holds a degree in Pharmacy from the University of Bangalore and is a licensed pharmacist. Vavachan’s strengths include strategic rigour, creating shareholder value, business development and growth, planning and execution, business transformation, change management and adaptability, a focus on digital and technology, and developing leaders from within. His operational knowledge in pharmacy retailing and keen interest in the training and development of human resources have been pivotal in LIFE’s success.

Company overview

LIFE began its journey as a retail pharmacy group in 1996. Today, LIFE has over 300 retail outlets, including pharmacies, healthcare hypermarkets, and health and wellness stores, and caters to an annual customer base of over ten million walk-ins. By 2025, it aims to expand its number of outlets to 1,500 and employ a workforce of over 3,000.

Innovations and industry leadership

LIFE Health Care Group has introduced many innovative concepts in pharmaceutical distribution in the region. These include the first Healthcare Hypermarket in the GCC, the first Drive-Thru pharmacy in the Middle East, and the first Shop-in-Shop concept in healthcare.

Over the years, LIFE has maintained its position as an industry leader by adapting to changes in pharmacy retailing and retail management. LIFE is also the largest healthcare retailer in New Dubai, with the highest number of 24/7 pharmacies in the UAE, and represents over 150 exclusive principal brands globally.

Name: Leah Cotterill
Rank: 13
Designation: CEO – Middle East and Africa (outside KSA)
Company: Cigna Healthcare
Country: UAE

In July 2024, Cigna Healthcare, a leading global health services company, appointed Leah Cotterill as the new Chief Executive Officer for Cigna Healthcare – Middle East and Africa (outside KSA). Cotterill is the first female CEO to lead an international health insurance company in the UAE, marking a significant milestone for the industry.

Extensive experience

Leah Cotterill brings over 25 years of experience in the health and wellness industry to her new role. Prior to becoming CEO, she served as the Chief Distribution Officer for Cigna Healthcare Middle East and Africa, where she led market growth teams, oversaw local International Private Medical Insurance (IPMI) operations, drove market development strategy, and addressed the needs of various buyer segments.

Career journey

Cotterill’s journey at Cigna Healthcare began in 2008, during the early stages of the Middle East business. She initially worked in Sales before building the Client Management capability in the region. In 2013, she moved to the US to lead the Client Management Team for Global Health Benefits in North America.

She later returned to the Middle East to lead the global client migration to Cigna Healthcares’s new operating model following the acquisition of Zurich Insurance Middle East. Before joining Cigna Healthcare, she worked at AXA PPP Healthcare in roles spanning customer service operations to business development, managing growth and service delivery for UK-based corporate clients.

Vision and achievements

In her role as CEO, Cotterill will drive Cigna Healthcare’s strategic growth and expand access to high-quality healthcare solutions across the UAE and other key markets in the Middle East and Africa (outside KSA). She has been instrumental in launching SmartCare by Cigna, the region’s first open-access network health insurance product, and played a crucial role in the company’s geographic expansion into Africa.

Cotterill actively champions gender equity, diversity, and inclusion, and is a strong supporter of Cigna Healthcare’s ‘Women in Networking’ (WIN) initiative. She holds an MBA with distinction from Hult International Business School, graduating with the prestigious Hodges Scholar.

Cigna Healthcare Middle East

Cigna Healthcare boasts a 225-year heritage in healthcare, with 60 years of global service and 20 years in the Middle East. The company has a robust global and local network, providing access to over 3,000 healthcare providers in the UAE and over 5,000 in the Middle East. Cigna Healthcare prides itself on its 24/7/365 customer service, with an 86 percent customer satisfaction rating.

Name: Akbar Moideen Thumbay
Rank: 14
Designation: Vice President and Board Member
Company: Thumbay Healthcare and Thumbay Group
Country: UAE

Akbar Moideen Thumbay is a prominent figure in the direction and growth of Thumbay Group, a diversified international business established in 1997, and headquartered in DIFC. Akbar plays a key role in shaping the organisation’s direction, overseeing and expanding Thumbay Healthcare’s operations, while also serving as co-chair of the GMU Academic Health System and a board member of Thumbay Group.

Education and professional background

Akbar’s educational journey spans across India, the UAE, Italy, and the US, providing him with a well-rounded and diverse academic foundation. A distinguished alumni of the Harvard Global Health Care Leaders Program, his professional career began with a New York-based company, where he developed his skills before joining Thumbay Group, the multinational business founded by his father, Dr. Thumbay Moideen, Founder President of Thumbay Group.

Akbar’s business acumen and proactive approach rapidly advanced his career within the organisation, ultimately leading to his current role as Vice President of Thumbay Group’s Healthcare Division.

Role and responsibilities

In his capacity as Vice President, Akbar oversees Thumbay Group’s healthcare operations across the UAE, including Thumbay Hospitals, clinics, and day care centres in Ajman, Fujairah, Sharjah, Umm Al Quwain, and Ras Al Khaimah. He also manages the extensive network of Thumbay Labs, Zo & Mo Opticals, and Thumbay Pharmacy outlets.

Under his leadership, Thumbay Healthcare has become the largest private-academic teaching hospital group in the UAE, serving patients from 175 countries, treating 11 million patients, and conducting over 80,000 deliveries. The healthcare division operates seven academic hospitals with 800 inpatient beds, five family clinics/medical centres, five diagnostic labs, and numerous retail pharmacy outlets, including the first drive-through pharmacy options.

Notably, Thumbay Healthcare was recognised as the prestigious 5th entity in the world with JCI Enterprise Accreditation, highlighting the quality and safety standards maintained in their clinical practice.

Vision and achievements

A significant aspect of Akbar’s strategy is the development of Thumbay Hospitals within the medical tourism sector, attracting patients from Africa and Southern Europe. The hospital’s advanced healthcare services and state-of-the-art facilities cater to a diverse clientele, offering everything from routine executive check-ups to complex surgeries.

Akbar’s leadership and vision have earned him several accolades, including the Young Leader Shaping the Future award at the Stars of Business Leadership Awards in 2017 and the Champion of Change award at the seventh annual MENA HR Excellence Awards in 2015. He was also featured among the 25 Young Business Leaders in the UAE in the coffee table book Gen Next Indians. Additionally, the American University of Sharjah recognised his career by inducting him into its Alumni Wall of Fame.

Name: Mutasim Alireza
Rank: 15
Designation: CEO and Board Member
Company: Magrabi Hospitals & Centers
Country: Saudi Arabia

Mutasim Alireza stands as a testament of excellence in the realm of eye healthcare. As the CEO and a Board member of Magrabi Hospitals & Centers, the largest eye care network in the Middle East and North Africa, he has overseen a remarkable expansion. The network, which serves over two million patients and performs more than 200,000 sight-preserving surgeries annually, is a testament to his visionary leadership.

Expanding horizons

During his 27-year tenure as CEO and partner, Alireza has led the expansion of Magrabi Hospitals & Centers to include 34 hospitals and centres. Under his guidance, the network has achieved top scores in local and international quality accreditations. In addition to this, he has successfully integrated dentistry and other services into its healthcare platform. Currently, his primary focus is on digitalisation and enhancing patient experience, which are key cornerstones of the company’s mission.

Leadership beyond Magrabi

Alireza also serves as the Chairman of the Board of AMI Saudi Arabia LTD, a leading hospital operation and management company. AMI managed the King Khaled Eye Specialist Hospital in Riyadh for 18 years and other state-owned hospitals. Additionally, he is a board member of Imdad, a prominent company in aesthetic medicine in the Middle East.

Contributions to Saudi healthcare

Alireza has been instrumental in advancing healthcare standards in Saudi Arabia. Serving on the Makkah region Healthcare Committee under the governor’s backing, the council played a critical role in initiating healthcare accreditation in the country, inspiring regional counterparts to follow suit. He also presided over the Health Services Committee at the Jeddah Chamber of Commerce and continues to contribute as a member of the National Healthcare Committee of the Saudi Chambers of Commerce.

Philanthropy and education

In addition to his healthcare contributions, Alireza co-founded the Ebsar Charity Organisation, dedicated to rehabilitating individuals with vision impairments. His commitment to education is evident, along with his wife and partners, he established NUN Academy, a bilingual secondary school in Jeddah, in collaboration with Kunskapsskolan of Sweden. The institution aims to prepare students for lives that are locally rooted yet globally connected.

Magrabi Hospitals & Centers – history and evolution

Founded in 1955 as the first specialised eye hospital in the MENA region, Magrabi Hospitals & Centers has evolved into a renowned network of specialised facilities. It pioneered sub-specialisation in ophthalmology in the Middle East and Africa, significantly enhancing the skills and expertise of ophthalmologists. Magrabi was also the first in the region to perform several procedures, including corneal transplant surgery in 1968, intraocular lens implantation in 1972, and laser-assisted cataract surgery in 2011.

Current operations and achievements

Today, Magrabi Hospitals & Centers employs over 400 doctors and more than 1,200 clinicians, all dedicated to ethical patient care. The hospitals focus on safety, high-quality services, and cost-effectiveness, continuing its legacy of innovation and excellence in eye healthcare.

Name: Basel Ziyadeh
Rank: 16
Designation: CEO
Company: Julphar (Gulf Pharmaceutical Industries)
Country: UAE

With a clear strategic direction and over 25 years of experience in the pharmaceutical industry, Basel Ziyadeh, CEO of Julphar, is leading the company through its transformational journey. Under his leadership, Julphar aims to provide health solutions both regionally and globally, ensuring that world-class care remains at the heart of its operations.

Previously, Basel Ziyadeh was the CEO of Tabuk Pharmaceuticals, where he played a vital role in transforming the business and significantly expanding the company’s profitability. He also established key partnerships during his tenure. Prior to Tabuk, Basel held several leadership positions at Hikma Pharmaceuticals over a 15-year period, serving across various functions and geographies.

He led Hikma’s branded strategy formulation and execution in the MENA region after overseeing the company’s full operations in the GCC and the Levant. Additionally, he has served as an advisor and board member for several pharmaceutical entities in Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Jordan, Sudan, Iraq, and Lebanon.

Educational background

Basel holds a Bachelor’s degree in Biological Sciences from the University of Jordan and an MBA from the American University of Beirut.

Company overview

Established in 1980 under the guidance of Sheikh Saqr Bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, the late ruler of Ras Al Khaimah, Julphar delivers high-quality, innovative and affordable healthcare solutions worldwide. With roughly 2,500 employees, Julphar distributes its products to more than 50 countries across five continents, while its 12 internationally accredited facilities in the Middle East produce one million boxes of medicine a day.

Product range and financial performance

Julphar is among the largest manufacturers of insulin globally and the only one in the UAE. It offers a vast range of medicines targeting major therapeutic segments and has achieved $220 million in global sales, with a market capitalisation of $400 million.

Subsidiaries

Julphar’s subsidiaries include Planet Pharmacies and MenaCool. Planet Pharmacies, established in 2007, is a vital part of Julphar’s supply chain. As a wholesaler and one of the leading pharmacy chains in the region, it serves a range of segments within the healthcare sector, including pharmaceuticals, nutraceuticals and medical devices.

Today, Planet Pharmacies has a retail and distribution presence in the UAE, Saudi Arabia and Oman, with 200 pharmacies employing more than 800 people. MenaCool, Julphar’s transport and shipping division, ensures the timely delivery of products by land, sea and air across the globe.

Offering 24/7 service dispatch by road to countries throughout the Middle East and Africa, MenaCool’s fleet of 40 trucks is supported by air and sea freight for cold chain products, ensuring medicines are delivered efficiently from origin to endpoint.

Leadership and vision

Under Basel Ziyadeh’s leadership, Julphar continues to thrive, maintaining its commitment to delivering high-quality healthcare solutions and expanding its global reach.

Name: Pelin Incesu
Rank: 17
Designation: Area Vice President
Company: AstraZeneca
Country: MEA

Pelin Incesu, a qualified psychiatrist, began her career with AstraZeneca in her native Türkiye in 2000. Over the past 24 years, she has held several pivotal roles within the company across various locations. Notably, she became the first Turkish woman to assume the role of AstraZeneca Country President, a milestone she proudly describes as “a glass ceiling I was proud to break.” Incesu has also served as AstraZeneca’s Vice President of Commercial Strategy, International.

Leadership and achievements

Since 2020, Incesu has been leading AstraZeneca’s strategy and growth in the Middle East and Africa (MEA). Within her first year in this role, the company recorded revenues of $1.2 billion from operations in the region. Her team, comprising 2,500 dedicated individuals, delivers solutions for patients dealing with health issues ranging from cancer and cardiovascular conditions to various respiratory and rare diseases.

During the pandemic, Incesu successfully navigated the company through the challenges, with AstraZeneca becoming the leading provider of Covid-19 vaccines to developing countries through the COVAX initiative, covering 61 countries in the MEA region.

Recent roles and initiatives

Incesu assumed the role of Area Vice President of Middle East & Africa in 2020 after serving as Vice President of Commercial Strategy, International from 2017. Under her leadership, AstraZeneca recorded over $1 billion in sales in 2022 in the MEA region and launched significant initiatives like the AZ Forest Initiative in Ghana and Rwanda.

Incesu oversaw the distribution of AstraZeneca’s COVID-19 vaccine across 61 MEA countries and announced the launch of the Cancer Care Africa programme at COP27. Additionally, she is the international leader sponsor for AstraZeneca’s Global Inclusion & Diversity Council.

Commitment and recognition

Throughout her career, Incesu has demonstrated remarkable leadership and strategic acumen, driving significant growth and transformation within AstraZeneca. Her commitment to delivering world-class healthcare solutions and her efforts in fostering inclusion and diversity have made her a respected leader in the pharmaceutical industry.

Company overview

AstraZeneca is a British-Swedish biopharmaceutical company with medicine sales in more than 130 countries, making it one of the largest drug companies in the world. AstraZeneca’s main research and development areas include oncology, rare diseases, and biopharmaceutical intervention, with numerous ongoing projects.

The company was founded on June 17, 1992, and is headquartered in Cambridge, the United Kingdom. Today, the company employs over 89,000 people, has a revenue of $47.6 billion, assets amounting to $102.3 billion, and profits of $6.3 billion.

Name: Naser Al Yammahi
Rank: 18
Designation: Deputy CEO
Company: Hayat Biotech
Country: UAE

Naser Al Yammahi, the Deputy CEO of UAE-based Hayat Biotech, brings over 15 years of expertise in both the public and private sectors. In his current role, he focuses on advancing the UAE’s capabilities in biotechnology and life sciences. Al Yammahi has played a key role in overseeing the successful rollout of the 4Humanity clinical trials, which led to the development of Hayat-Vax, the first Covid-19 vaccine in the MENA region. Additionally, he has developed strategic partnerships with 64 countries, significantly enhancing the global reach of Hayat Biotech.

Previous roles and achievements

Before joining Hayat Biotech, Al Yammahi managed strategic partnerships at G42, showcasing his leadership in business engagement strategies and high-value procurement activities. His tenure as the acting Executive Director at the UAE Ministry of State Office of H.E. Dr. Sultan Al Jaber highlights his contributions to identifying cross-sectoral opportunities and shaping policies.

Company overview

Al Yammahi’s journey with Hayat Biotech began in March 2021. Under his leadership, the company has made significant strides in biotechnology and life sciences. Hayat Biotech, founded in 2021, emerged as a beacon of innovation, driven by a passion to redefine the future of life.

Combining rich medical legacy with cutting-edge expertise, Hayat Biotech is committed to pioneering biotechnological solutions that empower individuals worldwide. The company’s mission is to revolutionise healthcare through the seamless integration of science and technology, transcending limitations to elevate the standards of life for generations to come.

National vaccine security

During the unprecedented time of the Covid-19 pandemic, Hayat Biotech played a crucial role in the UAE’s national vaccine security. In 2020, the company provided the UAE with access to the latest in vaccine technology, contributing to the country’s high immunisation rates and low infection rates.

Global distribution

Hayat Biotech has been instrumental in the global distribution of preventive medicine. Through strategic partnerships and global distribution networks, Hayat Biotech has successfully delivered to 64 countries, continuing its pledge to reimagine the future of life.

Recognition and awards

Al Yammahi’s contributions have not gone unnoticed. In March 2024, he was honoured with the 2024 Chinese Government Friendship Award by His Excellency Li Quang, the Prime Minister of China. The prestigious accolade, the highest established by the Chinese Government for foreign dignitaries, recognises Al Yammahi’s efforts in fostering collaboration between the UAE and China, particularly in the healthcare and industrial sectors.

Headquarters

Headquartered in ADGM Square, Al Khatem Tower, Abu Dhabi, Hayat Biotech continues to lead the way in biotechnology and life sciences under Al Yammahi’s strategic guidance.

Name: Dr. Bashar Bizrah
Rank: 19
Designation: Senior Consultant, Specialist in Rhinoplasty and Otolaryngology
Company: Bizrahmed
Country: UAE, Saudi Arabia, and the UK

Dr. Bashar Bizrah is a highly experienced surgeon in rhinoplasty and otolaryngology, practising in the Middle East and the UK. With over 30 years of experience, Dr. Bizrah has performed over 49,000 facial plastic surgeries, including 40,000 rhinoplasty procedures, a figure unmatched by any surgeon practising today.

Dr. Bizrah is renowned as a pioneer in the field of rhinoplasty, adopting a closed preservation rhinoplasty approach that leaves minimal incision marks and uses local anaesthesia with sedation for fast recovery. He has been classified in the USA as one of the top 10 influencers in rhinoplasty surgery worldwide.

Academic contributions

Dr. Bizrah is the author of the textbook “Rhinoplasty & Facial Aesthetic Surgery,” recognised by The American and European Academies of Facial Plastic Surgery as a key teaching reference. The textbook, which has sold out worldwide, consists of over 1,000 illustrations and is the first of its kind authored in the Middle East.

In addition to his textbook, Dr. Bizrah established Bizrah Academy, where he holds webinars and uploads second-by-second surgical videos on his YouTube channel, Rhinoplasty Bizrah Academy and Ask-DrBizrah, to share his surgical techniques with surgeons worldwide. His patients include luminaries, dignitaries, royalty, and celebrities from the Middle East and England.

Qualifications and memberships

Dr. Bizrah’s qualifications include a Fellowship of the Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh (FRCS), certification by the Royal College of Surgeons of England in rhinoplasty, facial plastic surgery, and blepharoplasty, and full GMC Registration on the Specialist Register. He is also a member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons and the American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery (AAFPRS).

Company overview

Bizrahmed is a leading cosmetic centre with branches in Dubai, London, and Jeddah. The centre specialises in rhinoplasty, hair transplant, and facial and body contouring. Named after Dr. Bashar Bizrah, Bizrahmed’s team of highly qualified and internationally recognised doctors aims to shape local communities’ perceptions of plastic surgery and educate them on self-care principles for a better and healthier life.

Name: Akram Bouchenaki
Rank: 20
Designation: CEO
Company: Jameel Health
Country: Saudi Arabia

Akram Bouchenaki serves as the Chief Executive Officer of Jameel Health, part of Abdul Latif Jameel that focuses on accelerating access to modern medical care and addressing unmet medical needs in developing markets worldwide. Jameel Health is part of a collective of independent international, family-owned, and diversified businesses, founded in 1945 in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, by the late Abdul Latif Jameel.

Experience

With 25 years of operational and strategic roles in the pharmaceutical and healthcare sectors, Bouchenaki brings a wealth of knowledge to Jameel Health. His career spans global leadership roles in large pharmaceutical companies and top California-based biotech firms, where he was an Executive Director for Africa, overseeing the continent’s largest markets.

Bouchenaki possesses extensive knowledge and experience in both generic and branded medicines, having worked in established and emerging markets worldwide. His experience includes significant markets in Africa, Brazil, and Mexico, where he co-founded a rapidly growing start-up to commercialise medicines in Latin America. Bouchenaki holds a Doctorate in Pharmacy from Université de Paris V, France. He has lived and worked in nine different countries across five continents and is fluent in French, Spanish, Arabic, Portuguese, and English.

About Abdul Latif Jameel

Abdul Latif Jameel operates across major industry sectors, aiming to positively shape the future of core industries driving the global economy. These sectors include investments, mobility, financial services, energy and environmental services, health, and a diversified range of other operations from consumer products and property development to professional services.

With corporate representation offices around the globe, Abdul Latif Jameel has an operational presence in more than 35 countries, across six continents and employs over 11,000 people of more than 65 nationalities. The organisation has deep roots in the Middle East, North Africa, and Turkey (MENAT region), making it a powerful partner for businesses looking to enter these markets.

Legacy of trust and innovation

From its modest beginnings nearly 80 years ago as a small trading business and Toyota distributorship in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, Abdul Latif Jameel has grown into a network of internationally diversified businesses.

In addition, to continue the tradition of philanthropy and community service established by the Jameel family, Community Jameel was launched in 2003. Among its network of research centers is the MIT Jameel Clinic, which was launched in partnership with the Massachusetts Institute of Technology.

The MIT Jameel Clinic works on novel algorithms that can model biological and clinical data to make new discoveries that can be deployed into mainstream clinical practices.

Name: Ayman Tamer
Rank: 21
Designation: Executive Chairman
Company: Tamer Group
Country: Saudi Arabia

Ayman Tamer is a distinguished figure in the health industry, with memberships in the World Economic Forum Family Business Community and the Pharma Committee at the Jeddah Chamber of Commerce and Industry. His influence extends to board positions at SAJA and Arabio, and an honorary advisory role at Effat University. His numerous achievements are strengthened by Saudi Arabia’s favourable regulatory environment.

The evolution of the Tamer Group

The Tamer Group, a family business with over a century of history, has evolved from a modest pharmacy into a multifaceted enterprise. Today, it boasts a diversified portfolio encompassing healthcare supply, manufacturing, logistics, e-commerce, consumer care, and IT solutions. With a workforce of 4,000, the Tamer Group is a key player in multiple sectors, offering a wide array of medical, pharmaceutical, and nutritional products and services throughout Saudi Arabia and the broader MENA region.

Embracing digital transformation

In 2021, the Tamer Group reached a major milestone in its digital transformation journey with the acquisition of Mumzworld, an online platform for mothers, babies, and children. The Dubai-based start-up reaches 2.5 million people across 20 countries and offers over 250,000 products. The acquisition paved the way for the launch of the Pharmaciaty e-commerce platform in December 2022, marking a significant shift towards business-to-consumer operations.

Leadership and commitment to excellence

Under Ayman Tamer’s leadership, the company is driven by a commitment to personal wellness and public health, delivering products and services that enhance the well-being of individuals and communities. The group’s dedication to service excellence solidifies its status as a leading force in regional healthcare advancement. In 2023, the group partnered with the UK’s Open Medical to integrate digital transformation solutions within Saudi Arabia.

Pledge to environmental sustainability

Environmental sustainability is another key focus for the Tamer Group. In 2023, the company embarked on a three-year journey to fully adopt sustainable energy investment metrics approved by the World Economic Forum. They aim to implement 45 percent of these metrics in the same year and 75 percent by the end of the next.

Future endeavours and technological innovation

As the Tamer Group looks to the future, it continues to embrace transformation. With SAJA, the company plans to start producing sterilised surgical procedure trays in Jeddah in 2024 through a joint venture with Swedish medical products company Mölnlycke. Additionally, the group intends to diversify its product range to include food and beverages and female products, while staying up-to-date with the latest technological trends in medicine.

Name: Dr. Majid Ibrahim Al Fayyadh
Rank: 22
Designation: CEO
Company: King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Centre (KFSH&RC)
Country: Saudi Arabia

Since October 2017, His Excellency Dr. Majid Ibrahim Al Fayyadh has helmed King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Centre (KFSH&RC). Under his leadership, KFSH&RC has cemented its position as a beacon of advanced medical care, encompassing specialised centres in cardiology, neuroscience, and genomic medicine.

Key achievements and collaborations

In 2022, KFSH&RC’s partnership with Oracle Cerner marked a significant milestone, focusing on collaborative research in data and AI. The same year, the KFSH&RC-Madinah mega project was honoured by the Project Management Institute as one of the top global projects in the large and mega category. Additionally, KFSH&RC-Riyadh plays a pivotal role in the International Cancer Genome Consortium, underlining its global impact in oncology.

Commitment to Vision 2030

Dr. Al Fayyadh, previously the Deputy Executive Director of Medical and Clinical Affairs, is a supporter of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030. Guided by the Health Sector Transformation Programme, the focus has been on preventative care, clinical research, and the integration of advanced technologies to ensure superior patient care and experience.

Addressing healthcare challenges

The Saudi healthcare market presents unique challenges, particularly with a growing population demanding innovative solutions and enhanced operational efficiency. Dr. Al Fayyadh’s leadership has been instrumental in fostering cross-sector partnerships, strengthening local talent, and driving clinical innovation. These efforts aim to position Saudi Arabia as a leader in healthcare, adopting new technologies, and achieving medical breakthroughs.

Excellence in patient care

KFSH&RC’s commitment to excellence is evident in its role as the national referral centre for complex diseases. The hospital sees around 10,000 patients daily across its branches in Riyadh, Jeddah, and Madinah. With a diverse staff of approximately 16,468 from over 60 countries, KFSH&RC embodies a global standard of healthcare excellence. In February 2023, it was ranked number one in the MENA region and placed in the top 20 globally by Brand Finance’s Academic Medical Centres study.

Strategic partnerships

Strategic partnerships have been vital to KFSH&RC’s growth. Recent collaborations include a partnership with Roche to enhance research capabilities and an alliance with Oracle-Cerner to advance technological developments in the healthcare sector. Other significant agreements include those with the Saudi Authority for Data and Artificial Intelligence and international institutions such as Johns Hopkins Medicine International and Massachusetts General Hospital.

Technological advancements

The launch of the Capacity and Command Centre in 2022, which utilises AI and predictive analytics, has significantly improved patient management and operational efficiency. At LEAP23, KFSH&RC showcased AI-driven systems designed to optimise operations and enhance patient care. KFSH&RC is also pioneering virtual reality programmes to support children with autism and exploring the potential of the metaverse to overcome healthcare access limitations.

Future outlook

Looking ahead, KFSH&RC remains committed to the goals of Vision 2030, striving to offer world-class care and continue its trajectory of innovation and excellence in the global healthcare landscape.

Name: Hady El Khoury
Rank: 23
Designation: Regional General Manager
Company: GE HealthCare
Country: MENEAT

Hady El Khoury, with over 20 years of experience, is a keen advocate for integrating technology into healthcare to support patients across various markets. His career commenced with GE HealthCare in Marketing in France, followed by product and service management roles in Northern Europe. Demonstrating his expertise and leadership, he was appointed Northern Europe regional services sales manager. In 2015, he relocated to Dubai, UAE, emphasising his dedication to bolstering the region’s healthcare infrastructure and expanding GE HealthCare’s footprint.

Since moving to Dubai, El Khoury has held key leadership positions, including Director of Commercial Operations, Services General Manager for Emerging Markets, and Chief Operating Officer for Europe, Middle East, and Africa. In these roles, he has driven growth strategies and expanded market share in critical regions such as the Middle East, Northeast Africa, Turkey, and South-Central Asia. His leadership has been pivotal in enhancing healthcare infrastructure and GE HealthCare’s presence in these markets.

Educational background

El Khoury’s educational background underpins his career success. He graduated from Saint Joseph University of Beirut with a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration and holds a diploma in Economics from Panthéon-Assas University in Paris and a Master’s degree in Management & Corporate Finance from SKEMA Business School in Nice, France.

Leadership and “genba”

El Khoury believes effective leaders excel in three areas: clearly outlining strategic directions and priorities, fostering an open, transparent, and inclusive work environment, and understanding the business to remove obstacles for their teams. When employees feel supported, they are more engaged and motivated, leading to better business outcomes and a greater community impact in healthcare.

GE HealthCare embraces the principle of Lean, including “going to Genba,” where leaders spend time with frontline staff to gain firsthand insights and support real-world decision-making. This approach ensures leaders are connected with the operational realities of their teams.

GE HealthCare’s impact

GE HealthCare, with approximately 50,000 employees in over 160 countries, is dedicated to fostering an inclusive culture of respect, transparency, and integrity. The company holds over 11,000 patents and is a pioneer in innovative solutions, tackling current and future healthcare challenges.

GE HealthCare’s Edison intelligence platform enables clinicians to make faster, more informed decisions through intelligent devices, data, analytics, applications, and services. The company’s technology manages four million imaging, mobile, diagnostic, and monitoring devices worldwide, handling over two billion patient scans annually.

Leading healthcare into the future

Investing $1 billion annually in R&D, GE HealthCare focuses on innovations in imaging, life care technologies, software, and AI. For instance, updating MR machines with AI-enabled software has reduced exam times from 40 minutes to 10 minutes, while improving image quality.

GE HealthCare leverages AI broadly across hospitals via the Edison cloud platform. The company also offers strategic support to health ministries, developing cost-effective solutions for public health challenges in areas like cardiovascular disease and cancer. By partnering with health ministries, GE HealthCare aims to significantly improve healthcare accessibility and outcomes in the region.

Name: Ihsan Almarzooqi
Rank: 24
Designation: Co-founder and Managing Director
Company: GluCare.Health
Country: UAE

Dr. Ihsan Almarzooqi is at the forefront of transforming diabetes management and metabolic health through the integration of digital therapeutics. Specialising in revolutionising traditional diabetes care, he focuses on providing patients with more effective and personalised solutions.

As a co-founder of GluCare.Health, a pioneering digital therapeutics company, Dr. Almarzooqi is dedicated to addressing the global metabolic health crisis and improving individuals’ overall well-being worldwide. Almarzooqi is also the co-founder of meta[bolic], a hybrid digital therapeutics company dedicated to addressing the global metabolic health crisis.

Tenure at Mubadala Healthcare

Dr. Almarzooqi’s tenure as Director and Deputy Head at Mubadala Healthcare, spanning over a decade, played a pivotal role in shaping the organisation’s healthcare portfolio. His responsibilities included asset management, strategy development, financial performance, business expansion, and operational management.

He also served as Vice-Chairman of the Board of Directors for several healthcare institutions, including Healthpoint, Imperial College London Diabetes Centre, National Reference Laboratory, Tawam Molecular Imaging Centre, and Capital Health Screening Centre.

GluCare.Health’s innovative approach

GluCare.Health operates on the belief that combining a human-centric patient approach with advanced technology leads to better and more efficient management of diabetes and metabolic syndrome. In 2022, GluCare.Health became the world’s first globally ICHOM-accredited facility, aspiring to report outcomes transparently with full accountability over its model of care.

The company employs a continuous remote data monitoring (RCDM) system, addressing the needs of patients across the Gulf Cooperation Council countries. This approach offers a comprehensive, real-time view of patients, making GluCare.Health one of the first healthcare providers to use a hyper-personalised, data-driven method for managing diabetes.

Comprehensive services and digital therapeutics

GluCare.Health’s unique model includes early adoption of Digital Therapeutics (DTx), combined with wearable and connected technology, innovative in-clinic workflows, and a dedicated expert care team.

The clinic offers a wide range of services, including diabetes care, cardiology, thyroid disorders, male health, urology, female health, gynaecology, paediatric endocrinology, adult and paediatric obesity, and preventive health. By treating diabetes as a continuous condition, the use of digital therapeutics becomes integral to their standard care model for diabetics.

Leadership and team excellence

Dr. Almarzooqi’s leadership ensures that GluCare.Health employs individuals who are genuinely passionate about diabetes management. The team consists of physicians, nurses, educators, and health coaches, all dedicated to providing exceptional care. Under his guidance, GluCare.Health is setting new standards in diabetes care and digital health, making significant strides in enhancing patient outcomes and revolutionising the healthcare landscape.

Name: John Ireland
Rank: 25
Designation: CEO
Company: Amanat Holdings
Country: UAE

John Ireland, appointed as CEO of Amanat Holdings in March 2024, brings a wealth of experience and expertise in finance, strategy, and business development across various industries. Throughout his career, Ireland has held significant leadership roles in real estate, media, and entertainment.

Prior to joining Amanat Holdings as Chief Financial Officer (CFO) in 2021, he served as CFO for several prominent listed and private organisations, both locally and internationally. His extensive experience in financial management and strategic planning has been instrumental in driving growth and success for these companies.

Educational background and professional qualifications

Ireland holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Business Management from the University of Exeter. As a qualified chartered accountant, his proficiency in financial analysis and accounting principles is a key asset for Amanat Holdings. His strong foundation in finance and strategic planning positions him to lead the company towards sustained growth in today’s competitive business landscape.

Vision for Amanat Holdings

Amanat Holdings is an investor in the healthcare and education sectors. Under Ireland’s leadership, the company is focused on capitalising on growth opportunities in these critical areas. The healthcare platform consists of five specialised hospitals, providing approximately 450 beds across the UAE, KSA, and Bahrain. This positioning enables Amanat to meet the growing demand for quality healthcare services in the region.

Commitment to healthcare and education

Ireland’s vision for Amanat Holdings focuses on continued investment in healthcare and education. In 2022, Amanat’s healthcare platform achieved an impressive $91 million in revenue, showcasing significant success in the healthcare industry across the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Bahrain. By establishing specialised hospitals and concentrating on these sectors, Amanat is well-positioned to leverage the growth potential in healthcare and education.

Amanat’s healthcare platform includes the Cambridge Medical and Rehabilitation Center (CMRC), a leading post-acute care and rehabilitation provider in the UAE and KSA. It also includes Sukoon, a provider of long-term and post-acute care services, including extended critical care and home care medical services in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, and Bahrain. Additionally, it includes the real estate assets of the Cambridge Medical and Rehabilitation Center in Abu Dhabi, UAE.

Amanat’s education platform features NEMA Holding, a leading provider of higher education in the UAE, and Middlesex University Dubai, the first overseas campus of the internationally renowned Middlesex University in London. It also includes the Human Development Company, the leading provider of special education and care services, covering educational, medical, and rehabilitation services in KSA, along with a small stake in BEGiN, a US-based, award-winning education technology company, and the real estate assets of the North London Collegiate School in Dubai, UAE.

Financial performance

In Q1 2024, Amanat Holdings’ revenue grew by 21 percent year-on-year to $60.48 million, driven by strong performances in both the Education and Healthcare platforms, which increased by 24 percent and 17 percent, respectively. The net profit before tax and zakat also saw an impressive increase of 18 percent year-on-year, reaching $14.47 million in Q1 2024.

Name: Dr. Michael H. Fakih
Rank: 26
Designation: CEO and Group Medical Director
Company: Emirates Hospitals Group, Fakih IVF, IVF Michigan, FIRST IVF
Country: UAE, USA, Lebanon

With over 25 years of experience, Dr. Michael H. Fakih is a distinguished leader in the field of reproductive endocrinology. He has been instrumental in over 35,000 IVF deliveries, showcasing his expertise and commitment to innovation in reproductive techniques. Dr. Fakih obtained his MD from the American University of Beirut in 1981.

He completed his residency in Obstetrics and Gynaecology before pursuing a Clinical Fellowship in Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility at Yale University School of Medicine in the USA. He furthered his expertise with a Fellowship in Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility at the Medical University of South Carolina in 1986.

Recognised for his pioneering work, Dr Fakih was honoured in 2008 as one of the top 15 American Lebanese of all time in the category of Medicine.

Company overview

Dr. Fakih is the CEO of Emirates Hospitals Group, one of the UAE’s most trusted integrated healthcare service providers. Emirates Hospitals Group operates an extensive portfolio of fully serviced hospitals, specialty clinics, urgent care centres, and pharmacies. The group offers a wide range of treatment options in every field of modern medicine and healthcare, backed by advanced technologies and a team of multidisciplinary doctors with rich regional and global knowledge.

Emirates Hospitals Group expansion

The Emirates Hospitals Group continues to expand its presence in the GCC at a remarkable pace, strengthening its network through acquisitions and the development of new facilities across the GCC and other parts of the world. The group aims to achieve professional excellence in delivering quality care while adhering to regional and global standards in healthcare.

Vision and mission

The mission of Emirates Hospitals Group is to provide high-quality, faster, better, friendlier, and safer services, consistent with the needs and beliefs of patients, employees, visitors, and vendors in a comfortable and secure environment. The vision is to be the highest quality multi-speciality private healthcare network of choice for patients, employees, and community doctors in the UAE.

Other roles and contributions

Dr. Fakih is also the co-founder and Group Medical Director of Fakih IVF in the UAE, IVF Michigan in the USA, and the Founder of FIRST IVF in Lebanon. Additionally, he serves as an Associate Professor at Michigan State University, College of Human Medicine. His academic contributions include over 40 medical publications, further cementing his status as a thought leader in his field.

Name: Masood Jaffery
Rank: 27
Designation: Area Vice President and Programme Leader
Company: GSK
Country: UAE

Masood Jaffery has been serving as the Area Vice President & Programme Leader for MENA/CIS at GSK since January 2016. Previously, he held significant positions within the company, including Vice President and General Manager of GSK Saudi Arabia, and Managing Director and Board Member of Glaxo SA Ltd. from February 2012 to December 2015. His journey at GSK also includes roles as Vice President for the Middle East Africa region and Director of Marketing and Sales in Pakistan.

Extensive expertise

With an MBA and a background as a pharmacist, Jaffery brings over 30 years of experience in the pharmaceutical industry. He has worked in various capacities across Pakistan, the UK, the UAE, and Saudi Arabia. His wealth of expertise and deep understanding of the pharmaceutical landscape make him a valuable leader in healthcare and pharmaceuticals.

GSK – A global biopharma leader

GSK is a global biopharma company dedicated to developing and delivering medicines, vaccines, and consumer healthcare products. GSK aims to enhance the health of 2.5 billion people by 2030, with a strong focus on infectious diseases, HIV, respiratory/immunology, and oncology.

Committed to developing innovative cancer treatments, GSK seeks to provide hope and better outcomes for patients with ovarian cancer, endometrial cancer, multiple myeloma, and other diseases. GSK boasts the broadest vaccines portfolio in the industry, offering protection against meningitis, shingles, flu, polio, measles, and more. In 2021, GSK achieved major product approvals for treatments targeting endometrial cancer, Covid-19, and HIV.

Financial growth

According to GSK’s Q1 2024 financial report, the company saw strong growth and performance across multiple sectors. Sales increased by 6 percent at actual exchange rates (AER) and 10 percent at constant exchange rates (CER), reaching $9.56 billion. Excluding COVID-19 solutions, sales growth was 13 percent. The core operating profit rose by 27 percent at AER and 35 percent at CER, reaching $3.17 billion, with the core operating profit margin improving by 460 basis points at CER, excluding COVID-19 solutions.

In the vaccines sector, sales grew by 22 percent, driven by strong performances in RSV and shingles vaccines. Speciality medicines saw significant growth, with sales increasing by 18 percent, largely due to contributions from HIV and respiratory medicines. HIV long-acting injectables experienced impressive growth of 83 percent. General medicines saw modest growth of 1 percent, driven by Trelegy, which increased by 33 percent, though other general medicines experienced a 2 percent decline.

Looking ahead, GSK has upgraded its financial guidance for 2024, expecting sales growth of 5-7 percent, core operating profit growth of 9-11 percent, and core EPS growth of 8-10 percent, all excluding COVID-19 solutions. These findings underscore GSK’s strong start to 2024, driven by robust sales growth across vaccines, speciality medicines, and general medicines.

Name: Ole Per Maloy
Rank: 28
Designation: Senior Vice President
Company: Siemens Healthineers
Country: UAE

Ole Per Maloy has been a key figure at Siemens Healthineers since his appointment as Senior Vice President in January 2018. His career within the company includes significant leadership roles such as General Manager and SVP for Western Europe and Western Africa. His progression and achievements highlight his substantial contributions to the growth and success of Siemens Healthineers.

Innovating in medical technology

For over 125 years, Siemens Healthineers has been at the forefront of medical technology, pushing boundaries with cutting-edge advancements in imaging, diagnostics, and cancer therapy. The company’s mission is to empower healthcare providers with innovative technologies and services in diagnostic and therapeutic imaging, laboratory diagnostics, molecular medicine, digital health, and enterprise services.

Global presence and customised solutions

Siemens Healthineers is currently present in more than 70 countries, ensuring close proximity to customers. The company’s products, solutions, and services are tailored to meet local market needs, leveraging unmatched global expertise.

Built on a history of innovation, Siemens Healthineers is a global player with a strong engineering heritage. Just one year after X-rays were discovered by Wilhelm Conrad Roentgen in 1895, the company created its first medical X-ray device.

Today, engineers and researchers worldwide continue to build upon this legacy of innovation. Supported by an annual research and development investment of $1.6 billion and about 24,000 technical intellectual property rights, including more than 15,000 granted patents, Siemens Healthineers consistently brings breakthrough innovations to market for the benefit of patients, medical professionals, and society.

Dedicated and diverse team

The team at Siemens Healthineers comprises of more than 71,000 employees, who push the boundaries of what’s possible in healthcare to improve lives globally. As a diverse organisation, Siemens Healthineers can better relate to people—whether customers or patients—their communities, and their specific challenges.

Diversity, equity, and inclusion are vital aspects of the company’s broader responsibilities. Contributing to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals is a priority in the company’s business strategy, continuously enabled by its unique culture.

Commitment to sustainability

Siemens Healthineers is a member of the UN Global Compact, with emissions reduction targets approved by the Science Based Targets Initiative as consistent with the goals of the Paris Agreement. The company’s sustainability strategy is built on three pillars: improving healthcare access for all, limiting environmental impact while pioneering breakthroughs, and engaging its diverse workforce to achieve this global impact. Siemens Healthineers pioneers breakthroughs in healthcare for everyone, everywhere, sustainably.

Financial performance

In Q1 2024, the company achieved a revenue of $61 million, representing a 21 percent year-on-year growth. Additionally, the net profit before tax and zakat was $14.6 million, marking an 18 percent year-on-year growth.

Name: Raza Siddiqui
Rank: 29
Designation: CEO
Company: Arabian Healthcare Group (RAK Hospital)
Country: UAE

Raza Siddiqui, with a career spanning over 40 years, currently serves as the CEO of Arabian Healthcare Group, which includes the flagship RAK Hospital. Siddiqui’s journey in the healthcare sector began as a management trainee at Lupin Laboratories Limited, a leading pharmaceutical firm in India, followed by a role at Ranbaxy Laboratories. He later founded Stancare for Ranbaxy and progressed to corporate communications and strategic planning at Indraprastha Apollo Hospital in New Delhi, India.

During his tenure as Director of Operations at Belhoul Speciality Hospital in Dubai from 1998 to 2003, on behalf of the Apollo Hospitals Group, Siddiqui played a key role in obtaining Joint Commission International (JCI) accreditation and introduced cardiac surgery programmes to boost medical tourism in the UAE. He then served as Executive Director at ETA Star Healthcare, where he led the establishment of joint ventures with companies such as Trivitron Healthcare.

Leadership and achievements

Siddiqui believes that passionate and ethical leadership is essential for developing strong organisations that continuously grow and prosper. He strives to provide his colleagues with an environment that fosters leadership in both their professional and personal lives. Through pioneering efforts in healthcare delivery, infrastructure, cutting-edge technology, and inclusive approaches, Siddiqui has significantly contributed to the sector.

In 2018, he received a token of appreciation by His Highness Sheikh Saud Bin Saqr Al Qasimi, ruler of Ras Al Khaimah and member of Supreme Council for serving as a Member of The Board of Directors in the Ras Al Khaimah Chamber of Commerce, a role that he has fulfilled since 2013.

Under the Arabian Healthcare Group, Siddiqui spearheaded the creation of a chain of premium medical and speciality centres across various locations in Ras Al Khaimah. RAK Hospital was launched in 2007, founded upon the initiative of Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi, Ruler of Ras Al Khaimah and Member of the Supreme Council of the UAE.

Arabian Healthcare Group

A few of the services offered by the 80-bed hospital include cardiac surgery, joint replacements, neurosurgery, minimally invasive surgeries, and plastic and aesthetic surgery among other disciplines. The hospital has firmly secured its place as a premier health tourism destination, attracting international patients seeking quality healthcare at an affordable price. The hospital has also partnered with Sonnenhof Swiss Health, leveraging the rich Swiss heritage of healthcare and hospitality.

Name: Mana Bin Mansour Almana
Rank: 30
Designation: Group CEO
Company: Almana Group of Hospitals
Country: Saudi Arabia

Mana began his journey with the group in 2007, initially leading the human resources department and overseeing various administrative tasks. His effective management and commitment to the group’s day-to-day operations have been pivotal in his rise within the organisation.

Academic credentials

Mana holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration from King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals and a Master’s Degree in International Business Administration from the University of Surrey, UK. These academic achievements have equipped him with the knowledge and skills essential for driving the group’s strategic vision and operations.

Professional journey

In April 2008, Almana was appointed as the on-site Director of Marketing and Business Development, a role he held until September 2018. His contributions in this position were significant in steering the group’s marketing strategies and business growth. In October 2018, he ascended to his current role as Group CEO, where he continues to lead Almana Group towards achieving its global vision and objectives.

Almana Group of Hospitals

The Almana Group of Hospitals, part of the larger Ibrahim bin Mohammed Almana & Brothers Company, is one of the largest independent, family-owned groups in the region. Established in Saudi Arabia in 1949 by Sheikh Mohammad Bin Abdullah Almana, the group has evolved from its early trading and shipping business into one of the most diversified and highly regarded business entities in the region and beyond.

The Almana Group stands as the Eastern Province’s largest medical company and healthcare provider, with a history spanning over seven decades. It has earned its reputation through exceptional care and a comprehensive array of healthcare services. The group is committed to serving the community by ensuring access to state-of-the-art technology that meets international standards in the healthcare industry.

Current scope and reach

Almana Group boasts a workforce of 6,600 employees, including 800 doctors, and operates 1,100 total beds across eight medical facilities. The group’s Trading Division supplies medical equipment and supplies to other national healthcare facilities, reinforcing its commitment to enhancing healthcare accessibility and quality.