Abu Dhabi: From the 12-week fetal scan during which a serious fetal defect was detected to undergoing in-utero surgery, a specialized EXIT procedure at birth, and major surgery to repair his diaphragm at 6 days old, baby Saif’s arrival into this world was fraught with challenges. After a 135-day stay in the NICU at Burjeel Medical City (BMC), Abu Dhabi, the little one emerged victorious, and is set to go home with his parents. Baby Saif’s parents, an Emirati couple from Al Ain, are relieved by the miraculous recovery of their newborn son following a complex medical journey that began even before his birth.

A Difficult Diagnosis

Latifa and her husband were overjoyed when they learned they were expecting their first child after five years of marriage following IVF (In vitro fertilization). Their initial excitement turned to concern at a 12-week scan when it was discovered that the baby had a serious diaphragmatic defect, causing his bowel and liver to herniate into the thorax.

The diagnosis was a blow to the couple. “It was difficult to hear that our baby might not survive due to his complex health condition or that the pregnancy might not be completed,” recalls Latifa.

They sought out specialists who could provide assistance and finally consulted Dr. Mandeep Singh, Consultant, Fetal Maternal Medicine and Obstetrics, Kypros Nicolaides Fetal Medicine and Therapy Center at BMC. Learning that specialized care was available within the country, they decided against traveling abroad for treatment.

As the pregnancy advanced, it was clear that the defect was severe, and this had led to both lungs being severely compressed. The chances of the baby surviving with such a serious defect are around 10-15%.
 Their only hope was to undergo a complex in-utero procedure called FETO procedure (Fetal endotracheal occlusion procedure), in which a balloon is placed in the baby’s trachea using a fetoscope to encourage lung growth.
Dr. Mandeep

Dr. Mandeep leads the team of doctors managing the case. Other members of the team included Dr. Iviano Ossuetta (Consultant and Director of Neonatology), Dr. Mussadaq Inayat (Consultant Neonatologist), Dr. Ahmed Omran (Consultant Obstetric Anesthesiologist), Dr. Shaikh Irfan Basha, (Consultant Otorhinolaryngology, Head & Neck Surgery), Dr. Rajasekhar Cingapagu, (Specialist, Pediatric Surgery), and Dr. Kesava Ramakrishnan (Consultant Pediatric Intensive Care Unit).

When Latifa first heard about the interventional procedure that would take place when her baby was still in her womb, she was filled with fear and anxiety. However, the medical team reassured the couple and they decided to go ahead with the procedure.

Overcoming Challenges

At 27 weeks gestation, the FETO procedure was performed successfully with the help of Dr. Mauricio Herrera (visiting physician and fetal medicine specialist). However, the mother faced a setback when she went into preterm labor shortly afterwards and started leaking amniotic fluid. With careful management, the pregnancy continued, and Latifa stayed in the hospital for the remainder of her pregnancy.

At 34 weeks, when she went into labor, the medical team performed a specialized operation known as EXIT (Ex-utero intrapartum treatment), which allowed the baby to be partially delivered while still attached to the placenta, allowing him to receive oxygen from his mother as the medical team stabilized his breathing before delivering him. During this time, Dr. Irfan Basha punctured the balloon and inserted an endotracheal tube to help Saif breathe. The baby was then delivered and transferred to the NICU. Later, baby Saif underwent major surgical repair of the diaphragm at 6 days old by Dr. Rajasekhar.

For Latifa, seeing her baby in the intensive care unit for premature babies brought mixed feelings of pain, joy, and fear. The couple traveled daily from Al Ain to Abu Dhabi to be by their baby’s side and ensure he received the best care possible. “It was a challenging time. My husband and family supported me, giving me the confidence that this would pass. The hospital felt like a second family, providing us with compassionate care. I am grateful to the UAE for its advanced healthcare system, which allowed us to stay close to our family and loved ones,” said Latifa.

Getting Ready to Go Home 

Four-and-a-half months later, baby Saif is all set to go home soon. “We are very pleased that baby Saif’s condition has greatly improved. In the last few months, he has overcome critical health challenges as our entire team worked together to deliver the best care. We are hopeful that we can continue to offer this treatment to any baby in a similar situation,” said Dr. Mandeep.

The Kypros Nicolaides Fetal Medicine & Therapy Center in Abu Dhabi has successfully managed numerous complex congenital malformations. It is one of the first centers in the UAE to perform in-utero spina bifida repair and continues to perform many such successful procedures.

UAE, Abu Dhabi:Abu Dhabi University (ADU) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Burjeel Holdings, a leading super-specialty healthcare services provider in MENA, to advance national research in health sciences and enhance the academic experience for university students through world-class practical expertise.

The two parties will collaborate to advance clinical studies in the UAE in line with national ambitions to become a global healthcare hub. The partnership will also increase opportunities for national and international grants for ADU students and faculty members.

Through joint initiatives, ADU and Burjeel Holdings aim to improve academic excellence and integrate industry insights to further develop curricula for students. Both parties also seek to foster innovation through collaborative research projects and the inauguration of innovative labs, advancing ADU’s standing as a hub for cutting-edge discoveries.

Abu Dhabi University continues to invest in its research capabilities to contribute to the UAE’s vision of building a knowledge-based economy. Leveraging Burjeel Holdings’ leading expertise in healthcare and the university’s world-class academic excellence, we aim to elevate the standards of research in the field of health sciences. At ADU, we are committed to creating a dynamic learning environment that adapts to the ever-evolving needs of the industry, ensuring our students are well-prepared to become the future leaders and innovators of tomorrow.
Dr. Hamad Odhabi
Vice Chancellor for Financial and Administrative Affairs of ADU

The MoU was signed by Dr. Hamad Odhabi, Vice Chancellor for Financial and Administrative Affairs of ADU, and Mr. Safeer Ahamed, Group COO of Burjeel Holdings, in the presence of Dr. Professor Ghassan Aouad, Chancellor of ADU), Salem Aldhaheri, Executive Director of Community Relations, Dr. Dr. Sofyan Maghaydah, Acting Dean of College of Health Sciences, and Dr. Tahani Al Qadiri, Director — Emiratization and Academics at Burjeel Holdings.

Our partnership with Abu Dhabi University underscores our commitment to advancing medical education and clinical research. This collaboration will open up unparalleled training opportunities for health sciences students, equipping a new generation of healthcare professionals with the knowledge and skills to drive excellence and innovation in the field.
Mr. Safeer Ahamed
Group COO of Burjeel Holdings

The partnership also aims to nurture community knowledge by providing extended programs that focus on higher education and skill development initiatives[N1] [U2] . ADU and Burjeel Holdings will also work together to organize conferences, workshops, seminars, and academic training programs, which will delve into the latest developments and best practices in the field of health sciences.

Furthermore, the MoU will leverage ADU’s leading academic facilities to conduct lectures and training workshops designed to enhance the human resources and administrative practices at Burjeel Holdings. The healthcare provider will also offer internship opportunities throughout its facilities in the UAE to provide ADU students with in-depth practical skills necessary for future careers in healthcare.

The Center, led by renowned orthopedic surgeon Dr. Nader Darwich, located at Burjeel Day Surgery Center, Al Reem Island, offers tailored solutions.

Abu Dhabi, September 12, 2024: In line with its commitment to enhancing accessibility to complex care in the UAE, Burjeel Holdings, a leading super-specialty healthcare services provider in MENA, has launched the Nader Orthopedics & Sports Medicine Center at Burjeel Day Surgery Center, Al Reem Island. The state-of-the-art facility employs the latest medical technology and innovative treatment techniques to deliver personalized care.

The center was inaugurated by His Excellency Adnan Hamad Al Hammadi, Member of the Federal National Council, alongside Dr. Shamsheer Vayalil, Founder and Chairman of Burjeel Holdings, Mr. John Sunil, Group CEO of Burjeel Holdings, Mr. Omran Al Khoori, Executive Board Member at Burjeel Holdings, and Dr. Ghuwaya Al Neyadi, Senior Vice President, Group Medical & Wellbeing, ADNOC, and Non-Executive Board Member at Burjeel Holdings.

Advanced Orthopedics and Sports Medicine Care

Led by Dr. Nader Darwich, Consultant Orthopedic Surgeon, the center is designed to deliver a full range of care for musculoskeletal conditions, from acute injuries to complex reconstructive surgeries. With over 30 years of experience and more than 17,000 successful surgeries, Dr. Nader brings unparalleled expertise to the Burjeel Holdings network.

The center specializes in minimally invasive procedures that shorten hospital stays, promote faster recovery, reduce pain, and improve precision. Services cover key areas such as knee, foot and ankle, shoulder, hand, wrist, elbow, hip, and spine conditions, providing comprehensive solutions for arthritis, joint pain, fractures, and sports injuries.

By integrating advanced medical technology with personalized care, we are committed to helping patients restore mobility, reduce pain, and bounce back quickly. The center is envisioned on the values of expertise, innovation, and compassion, and we are confident that it will become a key destination for orthopedic care in the region.
Dr. Nader

Expertise in Sports Medicine

The Nader Orthopedics & Sports Medicine Center offers a comprehensive range of specialized treatments, including joint replacement, ACL reconstruction, and advanced care for sports injuries. The center provides specialized care for knee conditions, such as ligament reconstruction and meniscal surgery, as well as foot and ankle treatments, using minimally invasive techniques for deformities and sports injuries. It also specializes in shoulder and upper limb procedures, including rotator cuff repairs and joint replacements, along with advanced treatments for hand, wrist, and elbow conditions. By incorporating 3D printing and AI technologies, the center tailors care plans, and offers both surgical and non-surgical solutions for chronic pain and sports injury management.

The establishment of the center is part of Burjeel Holdings’ broader strategy to expand its portfolio of specialized medical services. By investing in advanced orthopedic treatments, the Group ensures that patients can access top-tier, patient-centric solutions that address the community’s evolving healthcare needs.

The Nader Orthopedics & Sports Medicine Center is another milestone in Burjeel Holdings’ mission to deliver specialized care. It strengthens our commitment to orthopedic excellence and aligns with our vision of creating state-of-the-art centers across various medical specialties. We are fostering an environment of innovation and expertise to empower patients with better health outcomes and improved quality of life. Mr. John Sunil

In addition to surgical interventions, the center emphasizes comprehensive rehabilitation and physiotherapy. Customized rehabilitation programs ensure patients recover fully and quickly, while athletes benefit from performance-enhancement services that help optimize their physical capabilities post-injury. Preventive care is also a key focus, offering assessments designed to minimize the risk of future injuries, especially for athletes and active individuals.

The other experts of the center include Dr. Khaled Ahmed Said Khattab, Specialist Orthopedic Surgeon; Dr. Sherif Ahmed Ban, Specialist Orthopedic Surgeon (Wrist, Hand, Elbow); Dr. Mostafa Azab, Consultant Orthopedic Surgeon (Shoulder & Upper Limb); Dr. Ashraf Salem, Consultant Orthopedic Surgeon (Foot and Ankle), Dr. Amr Osman, Consultant Orthopedic Surgeon (Joint Replacement), and Dr. Joe Paul, Specialist Orthopedic Surgeon.

Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, 6 September 2024: Burjeel Holdings PLC (“Burjeel” or “the Group”), a leading super-specialty healthcare services provider in the MENA region, which is listed on the Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange, was recognized as a “Most Honored Company” in its debut appearance in the 2024 Emerging EMEA Executive Team Survey by Institutional Investor Research.

The Group was highlighted for its strength in investor relations, and was one of only six companies in the UAE to receive the “Most Honored Company” distinction. Burjeel came in second place in seven categories within the Emerging EMEA “Health Care & Pharmaceuticals” segment of the 2024 survey, which is based on rankings from the buy-side and sell-side investment community:

• Best CEO — John Sunil
• Best CFO — Muhammad Shihabuddin
• Best IR Professional — Sergei Levitskii
• Best ESG Program
• Best Investor/ Analyst Day
• Best IR Program
• Best IR Team

This year, the Emerging EMEA Executive Team Survey reflects the votes and opinions of 405 investment professionals at 248 financial services firms. Only 33 out of 332 companies from 11 sectors across the Emerging EMEA region received the “Most Honored Company” distinction.

The Group’s achievements are testament to its outstanding performance, recognized by investors and the market, and reflect the growth in its foreign investor base. Ranking as a top company in IR in the Emerging EMEA region highlights Burjeel’s commitment to providing quality disclosures, timely responses to investor queries, and effective investor communication.

We are proud and honored to be recognized by Institutional Investor Research for our performance. These achievements reflect the confidence of investors and analysts in Burjeel Holdings, highlighting the company’s excellence in financial disclosure, risk management, and commitment to transparent timely communication with external stakeholders. We will continue to further consolidate our leading position in the UAE healthcare market, maximize our shareholder value, and reinforce our daily commitment to the community.
Mr. Muhammed Shihabuddin
Group Chief Financial Officer

About Institutional Investor Research

Institutional Investor Research (IIR) is a renowned provider of independent data-driven insights and actionable feedback for the sell side, corporates, and buy side. They conduct comprehensive research surveys with global investment professionals to evaluate and rank the best-performing investment professionals, service providers, asset managers, and corporate executives.

About Burjeel Holdings

Founded in 2007, Burjeel Holdings is a leading super-specialty healthcare services provider in the UAE and Oman, and it operates a growing specialized healthcare segment in Saudi Arabia. The Group developed an integrated and multi-brand healthcare ecosystem across primary, secondary, tertiary, and quaternary medical care, ensuring complex care delivery to 

Our network comprises 89 assets across the UAE, Oman, and Saudi Arabia, including 19 hospitals, 47 medical centers, 15 pharmacies, and other allied services. Burjeel Holdings’ brands include Burjeel, Medeor, LLH, Lifecare, PhysioTherabia and Tajmeel.

The Trust Fertility Clinic is the largest fertility center in the UAE, offering advanced personalized fertility care and cutting-edge technologies such as AI-driven embryo selection.

Abu Dhabi, 23 September 2024: As part of its strategy to expand women and children healthcare services, Burjeel Holdings PLC (“Burjeel” or “the Group”), a leading super-specialty healthcare provider in the MENA region, listed on the Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange (SYMBOL: BURJEEL; ISIN: AEE01119B224), has announced plans to launch IVF services. The Group’s comprehensive portfolio already includes advanced gynecology, fetal medicine, and pediatric subspecialties. With the addition of IVF, Burjeel aims to offer an integrated approach to women’s healthcare, ensuring a continuum of care for women at all stages of life.

360-Degree Care for Women

The integration of IVF services will complement the Group’s existing expertise in advanced gynecology, fetal medicine, and pediatric sub-specialties, offering women a seamless journey from conception to delivery. The Trust Fertility Clinic at Burjeel Medical City (BMC), the flagship facility of Burjeel Holdings, will further strengthen the Group’s offering, addressing fertility challenges and enabling women to receive all necessary care under one roof. BMC is already home to several renowned centers, including the IFEM Endo Middle East Clinic, the Advanced Gynecology Institute, the Kypros Nicolaides Fetal Medicine and Therapy Center, and the state-of-art Obstetrics and Gynecology department. With dedicated Neonatal and Pediatric Intensive Care Units (NICU and PICU), the hospital ensures the highest standards of care for both maternal and newborn health.

The UAE In-Vitro Fertilization market is experiencing rapid growth and transformation, reflecting social trends and advances in reproductive technologies. The addition of fertility services not only strengthens our comprehensive women’s healthcare portfolio but also positions us to meet the growing demand in the region. We are dedicated to providing world-class, personalized care that utilizes the latest technological advancements. This expansion reflects our commitment to leading the region in holistic women’s health services, empowering patients with the best possible care on their journey to parenthood.
Mr. John Sunil
Chief Executive Officer of Burjeel Holdings

Largest Fertility Clinic in the UAE

The Trust Fertility Clinic will be the largest fertility center in the UAE, providing state-of-the-art fertility treatments. Leading the center will be Dr. Walid Sayed, a pioneering expert in reproductive endocrinology and infertility with more than 29 years of experience. Dr. Sayed has played a key role in shaping IVF regulations in the UAE, establishing him as a trusted authority in the field.

As part of Burjeel’s comprehensive women’s healthcare offering, the Trust Fertility Clinic will play a crucial role in addressing the unique fertility challenges faced by many families. Our focus is on delivering personalized, evidence-based treatments that integrate the latest advancements in reproductive medicine. By delivering compassionate and tailored care, we strive to ensure that each patient receives the necessary support to navigate their fertility journey with confidence and hope.
Dr. Walid Sayed
Medical Director of the Trust Fertility Clinic

The clinic will offer a wide range of fertility treatments, including egg retrieval, AI-driven embryo selection, embryo transfer, fertility assessments, intrauterine insemination (IUI), IVF consultations, reproductive medicine consultations, and laparoscopic surgery for diagnosing and treating fertility-related conditions.

The addition of the Trust Fertility Clinic will further solidify BMC’s position as a leading quaternary care center in the UAE, offering patients access to world-class services across various specialties.

About Burjeel Holdings

Founded in 2007, Burjeel Holdings is a leading super-specialty healthcare services provider in the UAE and Oman, and it operates a growing specialized healthcare segment in Saudi Arabia. The Group developed an integrated and multi-brand healthcare ecosystem across primary, secondary, tertiary, and quaternary medical care, ensuring complex care delivery to patients across all socioeconomic groups.

Our network comprises 89 assets across the UAE, Oman, and Saudi Arabia, including 19 hospitals, 47 medical centers, 15 pharmacies, and other allied services. Burjeel Holdings’ brands include Burjeel, Medeor, LLH, Lifecare, PhysioTherabia and Tajmeel.

The organizations are working on sending a suite of medical capabilities to space to further science research on how the human body reacts in microgravity.

Houston, USA September 24, 2024: Axiom Space, the leading provider of human spaceflight services and developer of human-rated space infrastructure, and Burjeel Holdings PLC (“Burjeel” or “the Group”), a leading super-specialty healthcare services provider in MENA listed on the Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange (SYMBOL: BURJEEL; ISIN: AEE01119B224), signed a Memorandum of Understanding today to conduct science research and test new technologies in space, forging the beginning of a long-term collaboration aimed at expanding access to microgravity for medical advancements.

The collaboration was officially announced at a signing ceremony held at the Burjeel Institute for Global Health in New York, attended by Dr. Shamsheer Vayalil, Founder and Chairman of Burjeel Holdings, and Mr. John Sunil, CEO of Burjeel Holdings.

As their first initiative, Axiom Space and Burjeel are working on sending a suite of medical capabilities to space to further science research on how the human body reacts in microgravity. The suite consists of best-in-class technologies used in hospitals and clinics around the world, including Burjeel Holdings’ flagship facility Burjeel Medical City (BMC). The research seeks to study how the microgravity environment affects relevant biomarkers, drug substance quality, and remote health services. Axiom Space astronaut(s) intend to wear and operate these technologies remotely throughout their training, launch, and during Axiom Mission 4 (Ax-4), which is scheduled to launch next spring.

This partnership with Burjeel Holdings underscores how Axiom Space is providing opportunities for organizations around the world to conduct medical research in space. We’re reimagining the way humans live and work in low-Earth orbit by leveraging microgravity to further our understanding of the human body, while also educating the global community on how to employ the microgravity environment for advancements in science and technology to benefit humanity.
Dr. Lucie Low
Axiom Space Chief Scientist

Through our groundbreaking partnership with Axiom Space, we are not only advancing the frontiers of medical innovation in microgravity, but we are also ensuring that both patients in the UAE and around the globe benefit from next-generation healthcare solutions. This collaboration aligns seamlessly and supports the UAE’s ambitious vision for space exploration. Just as we continue to reap the benefits of innovations from the space missions over 50 years ago — transforming everything from telecommunications to medical imaging — this collaboration represents a commitment to harnessing the unique environment of space to develop and enhance treatment methodologies. Ultimately, we are laying the foundation for improved patient outcomes today and for generations to come.
Dr. Shamsheer Vayalil

This partnership sets the foundation for a long-term collaboration between Axiom Space and Burjeel, opening the microgravity environment to new users and space explorers, and elevating Burjeel’s healthcare innovation ambitions.

ABOUT AXIOM SPACE

Axiom Space is guided by the vision to improve life on Earth and foster possibilities beyond it. The leading provider of human spaceflight services and developer of human-rated space infrastructure, Axiom Space operates end-to-end missions to the International Space Station today while developing its successor, Axiom Station — the world’s first commercial space station in low-Earth orbit, which will sustain human growth off the planet and bring untold benefits back home. For more information about Axiom Space, visit www.axiomspace.com.

ABOUT BURJEEL HOLDINGS

Founded in 2007, Burjeel Holdings is a leading super-specialty healthcare services provider in the UAE and Oman, and it operates a growing specialized healthcare segment in Saudi Arabia. The Group developed an integrated and multi-brand healthcare ecosystem across primary, secondary, tertiary, and quaternary medical care, ensuring complex care delivery to patients across all socioeconomic groups.

Our network comprises 89 assets across the UAE, Oman, and Saudi Arabia, including 19 hospitals, 47 medical centers, 15 pharmacies, and other allied services. Burjeel Holdings’ brands include Burjeel, Medeor, LLH, Lifecare, PhysioTherabia and Tajmeel.

Abu Dhabi, 16 October 2024: Burjeel Holdings PLC (“Burjeel” or “the Group”), a leading super-specialty healthcare provider in the MENA region, listed on the Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange (SYMBOL: BURJEEL; ISIN: AEE01119B224), has announced the launch of nine new primary care clinics across Abu Dhabi, Al Ain, and Dubai. These facilities will enhance access to comprehensive primary care services, catering to diverse demographic segments and improving community health outcomes.

The UAE’s healthcare strategy emphasizes the importance of primary care in promoting preventive healthcare and managing chronic conditions through early detection and treatment. Aligning with this vision, the new clinics will deliver a diverse range of services designed to meet the specific healthcare needs of various communities, including both residential and industrial areas, providing accessible high-quality care close to patients’ homes and workplaces.

The new primary care clinics will reinforce Burjeel Holdings’ established hub-and-spoke network, which is forecast to perform more than 300,000 outpatient visits per year and drive cross-group referrals. The facilities will serve as community-based hubs, offering convenient access to a variety of primary healthcare services, including obstetrics and gynecology, cardiology, dental care, family medicine, radiology. For more complex medical needs, patients are referred to Burjeel’s hospitals and day surgery centers, which provide secondary, tertiary, and quaternary care.

With this expansion, six clinics will open in the Abu Dhabi region (Medeor Al Nahyan, LLH Najda, LLH Ghayati, Lifecare Al Mafraq, LLH Al Nasser, and LLH Razeen), as well as two clinics in the Al Ain region (LLH Al Noud and LLH Al Hilal) and one clinic in Dubai (LLH Dubai Investment Park). The new facilities, which are the result of an AED 20 million investment by Burjeel Holdings, are expected to be fully operational within the next two months.

We are delighted to launch these nine new clinics as part of our ongoing efforts to broaden access to primary care across the UAE. This expansion underscores our commitment to supporting the nation’s healthcare objectives and ensuring that every resident has access to top-tier healthcare services, regardless of their location or demographic. The new facilities are strategically located to meet the needs of the diverse communities we serve, with a special focus on improving access to healthcare for industrial workers and expatriate populations.
Mr. John Sunil
Group CEO of Burjeel Holdings

The conference, endorsed by DoH and hosted by Burjeel Holdings, brought together nearly 500 in-person attendees and over 3,000 virtual participants

Abu Dhabi, 19 October 2024: Aimed at raising awareness on palliative care and its critical importance in improving the quality of life for patients with life-limiting illnesses, Burjeel Holdings hosted the UAE’s first-ever Palliative Care Conference in Abu Dhabi. Endorsed by the Department of Health — Abu Dhabi (DoH), the two-day conference brought together nearly 500 in-person attendees and over 3,000 virtual participants.

Her Excellency Sawsan Jafar, Founding Member and Chairman, Board of Directors, Friends of Cancer Patients, and Mr. John Sunil, CEO of Burjeel Holdings, and Prof. Humaid Al Shamsi, CEO of Burjeel Cancer Institute, graced the inaugural session of the conference.

A Historic First for the UAE

The conference, the first of its kind in the UAE, provided an invaluable platform for healthcare professionals to deepen their understanding of palliative care. The goal was to highlight how palliative care, by relieving health-related suffering, improves the quality of life for patients facing serious illnesses.

Renowned Experts Lead the Way

The conference featured plenary sessions led by some of the most respected figures in the field of palliative care, including multiple Nobel Peace Prize nominee and renowned Indian palliative care pioneer, Dr. M.R. Rajagopal. In his keynote address, Dr. Rajagopal shared insights from his three decades of experience, highlighting the importance of compassionate care.

Every healthcare provider has a responsibility to reduce suffering. Palliative care should be integrated into all healthcare practices, with providers applying its principles in every aspect of care. This includes alleviating pain and other symptoms, while also offering psychological and social support to enhance the overall well-being of patients.
Dr. Rajagopal

Dr. Joy Ross, a leading voice in hospice care from London, presented on the history and societal benefits of hospice care, while Prof. Justin Baker, a globally recognized specialist in pediatric palliative care, covered the essentials of caring for children with life-limiting conditions.

One particularly moving session featured a healthcare professional working in Gaza, who shared his experiences on providing palliative care in conflict zones, shedding light on the importance of supporting patients in even the most challenging environments.

The speaker lineup included experts from the UAE, India, the UK, Saudi Arabia, and Italy, with sessions covering a wide range of topics from palliative care advocacy to nursing roles and international experiences.

Vision for the Future: A Hospice in the UAE

A key highlight of the conference was the unveiling of Burjeel Holdings’ vision to establish a state-of-the-art hospice palliative care center in the UAE. “Burjeel Holdings is committed to developing a hospice that will offer patients and families the highest levels of palliative care, ensuring dignity and relief from suffering at every stage of illness. We envision a future where palliative care is an integral part of healthcare services across the UAE,” said Dr. Neil Arun Nijhawan, Conference Chair and Consultant Hospice and Palliative Medicine, and Director of Palliative and Supportive Care at Burjeel Cancer Institute.

In addition to expert discussions, the conference also emphasized advocacy for palliative care and highlighted the need for specialized roles in palliative nursing.

The brands ‘Alkalma’ and ‘Burjeel One’ mark a new era in healthcare innovation, enhancing accessibility and aligning with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030.

Riyadh: As part of its expansion in Saudi Arabia, Burjeel Holdings, a leading super-specialty healthcare provider in the MENA region, introduced two pioneering healthcare solutions at the Global Health Exhibition 2024. The Group unveiled Alkalma, a mental health and well-being platform, and Burjeel One, a specialized network of day surgery centers. Both initiatives align with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 and are set to revolutionize healthcare delivery in the region. Dr. Shamsheer Vayalil, Founder and Chairman of Burjeel Holdings, briefed His Excellency Fahad bin Abdurrahman Al-Jalajel, Minister of Health of Saudi Arabia, on the new initiatives at the Global Health Exhibition.

Alkalma, born from a strategic joint venture between Burjeel Holdings and Colombia-based healthcare leader Keralty, marks a new chapter in mental health services. Integrating value-based care with specialized primary centers and health risk management, Alkalma is debuting in Saudi Arabia with an ambitious goal of reaching nearly 30 million patients across MENA over the next decade. Alkalma will enhance preventive care, manage health risks, and reduce hospitalizations, all while delivering a comprehensive care ecosystem.

Burjeel One, a specialized network of day surgery centers, was also revealed at the exhibition, addressing the increasing demand for high-quality same-day medical services. These centers will offer minimally invasive procedures across key specialties such as oncology, advanced gynecology, orthopedics, and neurology. By incorporating advanced robotics and cutting-edge technologies, the first two Burjeel One centers, set to open in Riyadh by 2025, will ensure that patients receive world-class care without the need for prolonged hospital stays.

At the exhibition, visitors were given insight into how Alkalma and Burjeel One is supporting the Kingdom’s shift towards a comprehensive healthcare model.

The launch of Alkalma and Burjeel One reflects our commitment to transforming healthcare in the region by integrating advanced technologies and value-based care models. These initiatives address the growing need for accessible mental health services and specialized ambulatory care while aligning with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030.
Mr. John Sunil
CEO of Burjeel Holdings

The unveiling of Alkalma and Burjeel One builds on the success of PhysioTherabia, Saudi Arabia’s largest and fastest-growing physiotherapy network, which has expanded to 28 centers since its launch in 2023. These new services will enhance the network, offering integrated care from mental health to specialized surgery and rehabilitation.

Participating under the theme ‘Making Space for Innovation,’ Burjeel Holdings showcased its commitment to advancing healthcare at the Global Health Exhibition. Attendees experienced live demos of advanced physiotherapy equipment, while Burjeel highlighted its expertise in complex care across specialties like fetal medicine, orthopedics, oncology, pediatrics, and cardiovascular care.

During their visit to Burjeel’s booth, H.E. Dr. Majid Al-Fayyadh, CEO of King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Centre; H.E. Dr. Mohammed Al-Abd Al-Aali, Assistant Minister of Health; H.E. Dr. Ibrahim Alomar, Assistant Deputy Minister for Health Investment, Private Sector Participation (PSP), Ministry of Health; H.E. Dr. Khaled Alabdulkareem, Assistant Deputy Minister for Primary Health Care, Ministry of Health; and H.E. Dr. Shabab Al Ghamdi, General Secretary of CCHI, were introduced to the new brands the Group is launching in the Kingdom.

LLH Hospital and Burjeel Hospital, Abu Dhabi, clinch top spots in the Healthcare and Social Work category, reflecting the Group’s dedication to nurturing vibrant workplaces and sustainable workforce practices.

Abu Dhabi: Burjeel Holdings, a leading super-specialty healthcare services provider in the MENA region, has reinforced its position as a pioneer in workplace excellence by securing five awards at the second edition of the Emirates Labour Market Awards. Organized by the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE), the prestigious ceremony was held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, UAE Vice President, Deputy Prime Minister, and Chairman of the Presidential Court, at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre.

In the Establishments — Healthcare and Social Work category, LLH Hospital and Burjeel Hospital, Abu Dhabi, secured the top two positions, showcasing Burjeel Holdings’ commitment to nurturing dynamic workplaces, enhancing occupational health, and implementing sustainable workforce practices. Notably, this marks the second time LLH Hospital has been recognized at the Labour Market Awards, having won in the inaugural edition for outstanding achievement in the Workforce Well-being and Quality of Life category.

The group also excelled in the Outstanding Workforce category, with three employees recognized for their dedication and contributions. Dr. Nashwa Bahaa El-Din, Specialist Pediatrics at Burjeel Hospital Abu Dhabi, Ms. Maya Saseendran, Nursing Supervisor at LLH Hospital Musaffah, and Mr. Bharath Kumar, HSE Officer at Lifecare Hospital Baniyas, have been recognized among the top three at the Emirates Labour Market Award.

The winners were honoured by His Highness Theyab bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Chairman of the Presidential Court for Development and Fallen Heroes’ Affairs.

We are honored to receive this prestigious award. It reflects the dedication of our exceptional team and our commitment to nurturing an inclusive, sustainable, and empowering workplace. At Burjeel Holdings, we believe that investing in our people is central to delivering exceptional care and driving innovation in healthcare. This recognition motivates us to continue striving for excellence and supporting the UAE’s vision of creating world-class workplaces.
Ms. Tahani Al Qadiri
Group Director — Emiratization and Academics at Burjeel Holdings

This award is a great honor and a reflection of the support and opportunities provided by Burjeel Holdings. It inspires me to continue making a difference in my patients’ lives and contributing to our healthcare community’s growth. I hope my achievement encourages others to embrace excellence and passion in their work.
Dr. Nashwa

The winners, comprising companies and individuals, were chosen from a competitive pool of 7,700 applications across various categories. Expert committees assessed the applications using comprehensive and integrated criteria, including employment and empowerment, occupational health and safety, creativity and innovation, talent acquisition, labor relations and wages, and social responsibility, among other category-specific benchmarks.