In a new achievement added to its impressive record, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has strengthened its leading position in the health sector at the Arab level, by obtaining a number of prestigious awards in the fields of medicine and nursing for the year 2025. This crowning came during the work of the sixty-third regular session of the Council of Arab Health Ministers, which was hosted by the city of Tripoli in Libya, under the umbrella of the League of Arab States, which confirms the great development witnessed by the Saudi health sector and the high efficiency of its national cadres.
Background and importance of the Arab Health Ministers Council Awards
The Council of Arab Ministers of Health is the highest official platform for health cooperation among Arab states, and its annual awards aim to recognize individuals and institutions that have made exceptional contributions to the development of healthcare, scientific research, and innovation. Winning these awards represents regional recognition of excellence and encourages the exchange of expertise and best practices among member states, serving the ultimate goal of building strong and sustainable health systems in the Arab region.
Reflecting the Kingdom's Vision 2030
This achievement is not a coincidence, but rather a direct result of the massive investments and strategic plans adopted by the Kingdom within Vision 2030 and the Health Sector Transformation Program. This vision aims to restructure the healthcare system to be more efficient and innovative, with a focus on building a vibrant society where all members enjoy good health. The winning of these awards by Saudi professionals underscores the success of these policies in empowering national talent and providing a stimulating environment for research, development, and professional excellence.
Winners of the Arab Physician Award for 2025
Within the “Arab Physician Award” issued by the General Secretariat of the League of Arab States, two prominent Saudi names emerged in the sky of Arab medicine:
- Dr. Ahmed bin Salem Bahammam: The Director of the Prince Naif Center for Health Research received the “Excellence in Scientific Research and Innovation” award, in recognition of his outstanding research contributions that have enriched medical knowledge.
- Dr. Zuhair bin Yousef Al-Halees: The senior consultant of cardiac surgery at King Faisal Specialist Hospital won the “Excellence, Leadership and Medical Professional Impact” award, in recognition of his distinguished career and profound impact in the field of cardiac surgery.
Saudi excellence in nursing and midwifery
The recognition wasn't limited to the medical field; it extended to the vital nursing sector as well. Within the framework of the "Outstanding Work in Nursing and Midwifery" award, the Kingdom achieved remarkable accomplishments:
- The “INS Model” project: The Saudi team, comprised of Dr. Manal Saeed Banaser, Iman Mohammed Al-Shammari, Abdulrahman Abdullah Abu Khada’a, Jawhara Fahad Al-Harbi, and Reem Mohammed Al-Humaidan, won first prize in the clinical practice category. Their project is an innovative model for building capacity in critical care units during disasters, developed in response to the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, reflecting the Saudi healthcare system’s preparedness and ability to innovate during times of crisis.
- “Natathon” Project: In partnership with the Arab Republic of Egypt, Dr. Badriya Awad Al-Shehri, Chief Nursing Officer at King Saud Medical City, won the award for this pioneering project which aims to develop nursing education and training, and raise the efficiency of educational outputs in the health sector.
Future impact of the achievement
This multifaceted success reinforces the Kingdom's reputation as a regional hub for medical excellence and healthcare innovation. Domestically, it boosts the morale of healthcare professionals and encourages new generations to pursue careers in the health sector. Regionally, it sets a high standard of quality and opens new avenues for collaboration and knowledge exchange with fellow Arab nations, ultimately benefiting the health of Arab citizens everywhere.
