Healthcare is personal. Every choice, every innovation, every policy touches real lives. From ministers and policymakers steering national strategies to doctors, entrepreneurs, and executives transforming hospitals, clinics, and medical services, these changemakers are shaping a future where care is accessible, advanced, and compassionate. They bridge science and humanity, using cutting-edge solutions to save lives every day. This list celebrates the UAE’s Most Influential Healthcare Leaders—from pioneers who built hospitals and clinics decades ago, when there were barely any, to today’s innovators redefining how care is delivered.
Ahmed Al Sayegh
UAE Minister of Health and Prevention
Ahmed Al Sayegh, appointed UAE Minister of Health and Prevention in September 2025, has worn several hats. He has led major energy and infrastructure projects, held senior leadership roles in national and international ventures, and steered initiatives in economic development and cross-border collaboration.
Dr Maryam Matar
Founder & Chairperson, UAE Genetic Diseases Association | Sheikh Zayed Genetic Research Centre
Dr Maryam Matar is a physician and medical economist who pioneered Longevity Medicine in the Middle East, led national health reforms, founded multiple medical institutions, and drives translational medicine and global health initiatives, advancing preventive, regenerative, and sustainable healthcare.
Dr Hussain Alrand
Assistant Undersecretary (Public Health), MoHAP
Dr Hussain Alrand shapes public health policy in the UAE, leads national and global health committees, advances medical education, and has earned international recognition for contributions to disease prevention, health security, and sustainable development in healthcare.
Shaista Asif
Group CEO, PureHealth
Shaista Asif leads the region’s largest healthcare group, overseeing 110+ hospitals, 316+ clinics, diagnostic centres, insurance solutions, pharmacies, and health tech. She has driven innovations and acquisitions across regions and played a pivotal role in PureHealth’s successful 2023 initial public offering.
Dr Shamsheer Vayalil
Founder and Non-Executive Chairman, Burjeel Holdings
Dr Shamsheer Vayalil transformed a single hospital into a leading integrated healthcare group across the Middle East and India. He champions innovation, philanthropy, and community welfare, creating impactful healthcare solutions and advancing accessible, high-quality care globally.
Alisha Moopen
Managing Director and Group CEO, Aster DM Healthcare
Alisha Moopen is a social entrepreneur transforming global healthcare equity. She champions accessible wellness through physical and digital solutions, drives sustainable growth, and has been recognised internationally for leadership, innovation, and impact in healthcare and social entrepreneurship.
Mansoor Ibrahim Al Mansoori
Chairman of Department of Health – Abu Dhabi
Mansoor Al Mansoori is a distinguished UAE leader with extensive experience across multiple sectors. He has held senior leadership roles, driving strategic initiatives, fostering innovation, and contributing to the development and growth of organizations throughout the region.
Saeed Jaber Al Kuwaiti
Group CEO, Abu Dhabi Health Services Company – SEHA
Saeed Jaber Al Kuwaiti has been part of the SEHA network since its inception in 2007. With decades of experience, he has led major hospitals and, as Group CEO, drives strategic leadership, healthcare excellence, and healthier, longer lives for UAE residents.
Dr Ali Abdulkarim Al Obaidli
Chairman, National Committee for Organ Transplantation
Dr Ali Abdulkarim Al Obaidli has been instrumental in advancing the Hayat program, increasing organ donations, and fostering community solidarity. He leverages skilled medical teams, advanced facilities, and global collaborations to position the UAE as a leader in organ transplantation.
Kimberley Pierce
CEO, King’s College Hospital London, Dubai
Kimberley Pierce is an expert in hospital leadership and clinical service development, with extensive experience managing major capital projects, and balancing clinical and financial priorities. She excels at building high-performing teams and delivering impactful healthcare solutions.
Dr Farida Al Hosani
Deputy CEO, Global Institute for Disease Elimination
Dr Farida Al Hosani has led critical public health initiatives in communicable disease preparedness, environmental health, and safety. She served as the UAE’s official spokesperson during Covid-19, guiding public health and vaccination efforts, while championing research, innovation, and AI in healthcare.
Dr Amer Sharif
CEO, Dubai Health
Amer Ahmad Sharif is a veteran healthcare leader with extensive experience in the UAE health system. He has held key roles across multiple entities and conducted research addressing healthcare challenges, reforms, and future strategic development in the region.
Dr Reem Osman
Vice-Chairwoman, Saudi German Health UAE
Dr Reem Osman is a visionary healthcare leader with years of experience driving quality, accessibility, and innovation across hospitals and clinics in the Middle East. She has led expansions, transformations, and humanitarian initiatives, earning recognition as a top regional healthcare figure.
Prof. Humaid Obaid Al-Shamsi
President, Emirates Oncology Society | CEO, Burjeel Cancer Institute
Humaid Obaid Al-Shamsi is a pioneering oncologist in the UAE and MENA region, recognized for advancing cancer research, public awareness, and precision oncology. He has authored groundbreaking publications, led transformative initiatives, and shaped the region’s oncology landscape.
Dr Mohammad Salim Al Olama
Chairman of the Board of Directors, Emirates Health Services
Dr Mohammad Salim Al Olama led the development of new healthcare projects and drove business growth in clinical support services. He focused on strategic initiatives that enhanced healthcare delivery, optimized operations, and expanded access to quality medical services.
Dr Marwan Al Kaabi
CEO, Sheikh Shakhbout Medical City
Dr Marwan Al Kaabi has years of experience leading complex healthcare operations and large teams. He is recognized for driving operational efficiency, enhancing patient care, managing enterprise risk, and developing crisis management and safety protocols.
Dr Abdulla Al Khayat
CEO Emeritus, Al Jalila Specialty Hospital for Children
Dr Abdulla Al Khayat is among the first UAE nationals to specialise in paediatrics and is widely recognised as one of the best paediatricians in the UAE. He has built a reputation for excellence, expertise, and contributions to child healthcare.
Dr Zulekha Daud
Founder and Chairperson, Zulekha Healthcare Group
Dr Zulekha Daud is the first recognised Indian woman medical professional and a pioneering entrepreneur in the UAE. For decades, she has expanded healthcare access, transformed services, and inspired others, shaping the region’s healthcare landscape.
Georges-Pascal Haber
CEO, Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi
Georges-Pascal Haber is a visionary leader and innovator in robotic and oncologic surgery. With decades of experience, he has pioneered advanced robotic procedures in urology and contributed significantly to the development and leadership of surgical programs and initiatives.
Dimitris Moulavasilis
Group CEO, M42
Dimitris Moulavasilis has over 30 years of international experience in healthcare and medical technology. He is a passionate advocate for digital transformation, leveraging AI and technology to drive innovation and make high-quality, personalized healthcare accessible to all.
Dr Raza Siddiqui
Group CEO, Arabian Healthcare Group, and Executive Director, RAK Hospital
Dr Raza Siddiqui is a healthcare leader with extensive experience enhancing healthcare delivery and management. He focuses on innovation, quality, and operational efficiency, driving transformative initiatives that improve patient care and advance health outcomes across the region.
Hein van Eck
CEO, Mediclinic Middle East
Hein van Eck is a seasoned healthcare leader with over two decades of experience in strategy, operations, and business growth. His career spans international healthcare systems, combining actuarial expertise with a focus on driving sustainable performance and strategic transformation.
Dr Jamil Ahmed
Founder & Managing Director, Prime Healthcare Group
Dr Jamil Ahmed is an accomplished orthopaedic surgeon and entrepreneur whose vision has transformed Prime Healthcare Group into a leading name in UAE healthcare. Combining medical expertise with strategic foresight, he has driven the group’s expansion, innovation and focus on quality patient care.
Hanan Al Suwaidi
Chief Business Officer, Dubai Health
Dr Hanan Al Suwaidi made history as the first Emirati space flight physician, supporting the UAE’s first mission to the International Space Station. She has extensive experience spanning clinical practice, healthcare administration and health policy across public and private sectors.
Dr Mohaymen Abdelghany
Group CEO, Board Member – Fakeeh Health | CEO, Fakeeh University Hospital
Dr Mohaymen Abdelghany is an accomplished healthcare leader with over 25 years of global experience spanning clinical practice, management, and digital transformation. He actively contributes to the healthcare community through his involvement in leading healthcare and advisory boards.
Dr Shanila Laiju
Group CEO, Medcare Hospitals & Medical Centers
Dr Shanila Laiju is a dynamic healthcare leader known for driving organizational growth through people-centered leadership and operational excellence. She has led large-scale projects, enhanced institutional performance, and continues to inspire future leaders as a mentor in women’s leadership initiatives.
Thumbay Moideen
Founder President, Thumbay Group
Dr Thumbay Moideen is a visionary entrepreneur who has built a diversified international conglomerate spanning multiple sectors, including healthcare, education, hospitality, and technology. Recognized regionally and internationally, he is celebrated for his leadership, innovation, and impact across the UAE and beyond.
David Hadley
CEO, NMC Healthcare
David Hadley is a seasoned healthcare leader with decades of experience driving growth and expansion across the GCC. He is recognized for his strategic vision, commitment to improving healthcare standards, and dedication to delivering high-quality patient care.
Haider Al Enzi
Managing Director, Al-Futtaim Health
Haider Al Enzi is an experienced healthcare executive with over two decades in leadership, strategic planning, and operational excellence. He has driven innovation, developed integrated healthcare networks, led public health initiatives, and improved access and efficiency in patient care.
Dr Sara Al Bastaki
Founder & President, Emirates Society of Colon & Rectal Surgery
Dr Sara Al Bastaki is a UAE-based colorectal surgeon with training in Ireland, Germany, and the UK. She specializes in laparoscopic and advanced colorectal procedures, leads a surgical division, and serves as president of the Emirates Society of Colon & Rectal Surgery.
