HH Sheikha Moza bint Nasser Attends Opening of Precision Medicine and the Future of Genomics Summit 2025
Qatar Foundation and Sidra Medicine highlight 11 years of groundbreaking progress in Precision Health and Genomics. Her Highness Sheikha Moza bint Nasser, Chairperson of Qatar Foundation (QF), attended the opening of the Precision Medicine and the Future of Genomics (PMFG) Summit 2025, held at the Qatar National Convention Centre (QNCC). The prestigious event marks more than a decade of Qatar’s leadership and investment in precision medicine, genomics, and health innovation. The ceremony was also attended by HE Mansoor bin Ebrahim bin Saad Al Mahmoud, Minister of Public Health, alongside senior government officials, diplomats, and global healthcare and academic leaders — underscoring Qatar’s commitment to advancing the future of healthcare. A Decade of Milestones in Precision Medicine The PMFG Summit 2025 opened with keynote addresses from Julia Vitarello, Founder & CEO of Mila’s Miracle Foundation, and Prof. Ed Liu from The Jackson Laboratory. The ceremony concluded with the flagship panel discussion:“From Personalised to Population-Scale: Building a Thriving Precision Medicine Sector in Qatar.” In his remarks, Prof. Khalid Fakhro, Chief Research Officer at Sidra Medicine, stated: “As we celebrate 11 years of PMFG, we reaffirm our commitment to advancing genomic science, translational research, and precision health implementation. We extend our appreciation to all speakers, partners, sponsors, and the growing scientific community in Qatar who make this summit truly exceptional.” Driving the Future of Genomics and Healthcare Innovation Co-organised by Sidra Medicine and the Qatar Precision Health Institute, and held under the patronage of Qatar Foundation, the PMFG Summit focuses on three major transformative pillars shaping the next era of global healthcare: The summit brings together global experts to explore how genomics, technology, and clinical strategy can be integrated into population-wide healthcare transformation — positioning Qatar as a frontrunner in precision medicine. What’s Ahead on Day 2 – December 3 The second day of PMFG 2025 will feature: As Qatar continues shaping a world-class ecosystem for precision health, the PMFG Summit stands as a cornerstone of its national vision to lead scientific discovery, improve patient outcomes, and build a sustainable healthcare future.
Health Minister Inaugurates Qatar Medicare 2025 with Participation of 100 Companies
Organised by IFP Qatar in Collaboration with Qatar Chamber H.E. Mr Mansoor bin Ebrahim bin Saad Al Mahmoud, Minister of Public Health, inaugurated the second edition of Qatar’s International Healthcare and Medical Exhibition and Conference – Qatar Medicare 2025, held under the patronage of the Ministry of Public Health (MoPH). The event, organised by IFP Qatar in collaboration with Qatar Chamber, runs from November 11 to 13, 2025, at the Doha Exhibition and Convention Center (DECC), bringing together 100 local and international companies from across the healthcare ecosystem — including 64 local exhibitors and 36 global participants. This year’s edition showcases the latest advancements in healthcare innovation, medical technology, and sustainable health systems, featuring healthcare professionals, hospital representatives, medical service providers, technology experts, and investors from around the world. Public-Private Collaboration in Healthcare Ms Ibtihaj Al Ahmadani, Chair of the Health Committee at Qatar Chamber, reaffirmed the Chamber’s support for achieving self-sufficiency in Qatar’s healthcare and pharmaceutical sectors. “The Qatar Chamber is committed to achieving self-sufficiency in the medical and pharmaceutical sectors. Qatar Medicare reflects the strong public-private collaboration driving Qatar’s healthcare landscape,” Al Ahmadani said. She noted that this year’s event includes the participation of key governmental and semi-governmental entities, such as Hamad Medical Corporation (HMC), as the official partner, and the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology (MCIT), as the government partner. International representation spans 14 countries, featuring leading global organisations including the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC), UNESCO, World Health Organisation (WHO), and the International Labour Organisation (ILO), alongside numerous regional and private-sector partners. According to Fitch Solutions, Qatar’s healthcare sector is set for rapid expansion, with total health expenditure projected to grow at a CAGR of 14% by 2029, reaching USD 11.5 billion (QAR 41.86 billion) — positioning Qatar as the third-largest healthcare market in the GCC and tenth in the MENA region. Comprehensive Conference Agenda Ms Hayat Bayan, Commercial & Operations Director at IFP Qatar, outlined the dynamic structure of the three-day event, which features over 55 speakers, 25 presentations, five dialogue sessions, and four workshops. “Qatar Medicare includes daily one-on-one meetings between exhibitors and major hospitals, panel discussions, workshops, and an Open Stage segment that allows professionals to share their expertise. The event will conclude with the Qatar Medicare 2025 Healthcare Excellence Awards, recognising 15 categories of outstanding healthcare institutions and professionals,” Bayan said. She highlighted that the conference addresses key themes, including: Industry Voices and Strategic Partnerships Mr Nasser Mohammed Al Hajri, Chairman of Al Jazira Medical Group and Platinum Sponsor of the event, emphasised the importance of innovation and collaboration: “We will showcase our latest healthcare technologies and services while strengthening partnerships with the public sector. Our strategy focuses on expanding in the local market to meet Qatar’s growing healthcare demands.” Dr Zainab Al Moosa, CEO of Almoosa Specialist Hospital, noted the group’s participation as part of its regional growth strategy: “As a leading healthcare provider in Saudi Arabia, we aim to explore new opportunities for joint collaboration and expansion across the region through our participation in Qatar Medicare.” Dr Hadi Mohamad Abu Rasheed, Scientific Advisor at the Qatar Cancer Society (QCS), stressed the organisation’s commitment to raising public awareness and advancing cancer prevention: “As a Silver Sponsor, QCS is reinforcing its awareness role, focusing on cancer prevention, early detection, and public education. The event also allows us to explore partnerships that enhance healthcare innovation and improve the quality of life for patients.” Driving Innovation and Healthcare Excellence Qatar Medicare 2025 serves as a dynamic platform to connect innovators, policymakers, and investors, creating new opportunities for knowledge exchange and growth within the healthcare sector. Through its robust agenda, international participation, and collaboration between government and private stakeholders, the event underscores Qatar’s growing role as a regional hub for healthcare innovation and investment. Organised by: IFP QatarIn Collaboration with: Qatar ChamberVenue: Doha Exhibition & Convention Center (DECC)Dates: November 11–13, 2025
A National Milestone in Pediatric Care
Her Highness Sheikha Moza bint Nasser Inaugurates Pediatric Stem Cell Transplant Ward at Sidra Medicine Sidra Medicine, a member of Qatar Foundation, proudly announces the official inauguration of its state-of-the-art Pediatric Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplant (HSCT) Ward, launched under the patronage of Her Highness Sheikha Moza bint Nasser. This marks a groundbreaking advancement in Qatar’s pediatric healthcare landscape — the country’s first dedicated ward offering bone marrow transplant services to children with complex blood disorders, genetic diseases, and immune system conditions. The new HSCT Ward is designed exclusively for patients under 18 years of age, delivering highly specialised care for conditions such as: Treatments include autologous (self-donated) and allogeneic (donor-based) hematopoietic stem cell transplants, also known as bone marrow transplants. Precision Medicine Meets Global Standards Sidra Medicine’s HSCT program is a cornerstone of its precision medicine strategy. The new ward features: This launch supports Qatar’s healthcare goals under Qatar National Vision 2030, including: As of mid-2025, the HSCT ward will begin autologous transplants, with preparations underway for allogeneic procedures. Future phases will include CAR-T cell therapies and Casgevy gene therapy for thalassemia and sickle cell disease. Dr. Iyabo Tinubu-Karch, CEO of Sidra Medicine: “The HSCT program strengthens our commitment to providing world-class, family-centered care—right here in Qatar.” Prof. Ibrahim Janahi, Chief Medical Officer: “This initiative is a major step toward building a knowledge-based, innovation-driven health system in line with Qatar’s national goals.” The HSCT Program at Sidra Medicine is open to both Qatari and international patients. More than 50 children are currently awaiting transplantation, and new patient referrals are now being accepted. To learn more about our Pediatric Hematology, Oncology, and HSCT services, or to refer a patient, please visit:🔗 www.sidra.org
Sidra Medicine and İzmir Biomedicine and Genome Center (IBG) Sign MoU to Advance Pediatric Biomedical Research
Strengthening Collaboration in Genomics, Precision Medicine, and Translational Research 18 March 2025, Doha, Qatar – Sidra Medicine, a member of Qatar Foundation, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the İzmir Biomedicine and Genome Center (IBG) to enhance collaboration in pediatric biomedical research. The agreement marks a significant milestone in fostering scientific research, innovation, and knowledge exchange between the two institutions. Dr. Iyabo Tinubu-Karch, Chief Executive Officer at Sidra Medicine, emphasized the significance of the partnership, stating: “The MoU with IBG is a major step in accelerating genomic discoveries for rare diseases. Our collaboration will focus on key areas including biobanking, genomics and multi-omics, bioinformatics, animal models of disease, and stem cell research. By working together, we aim to advance precision medicine and develop groundbreaking solutions for children with complex medical conditions.” Prof. Yılmaz, Director of IBG, said: “Partnering with Sidra Medicine, a globally recognized leader in pediatric healthcare and research, reinforces our commitment to advancing biomedical research. This collaboration will enable us to make meaningful strides in genomic and translational medicine, ultimately improving healthcare outcomes for children globally.” The partnership with IBG will also establish a framework for collaborative research projects, academic exchanges, and the sharing of expertise in key areas such as genomics, precision medicine, and translational research. By combining resources and knowledge, Sidra Medicine and IBG aim to address critical health challenges affecting children worldwide. Prof. Khalid Fakhro, Chief Research Officer at Sidra Medicine said: “Our agreement with IBG will also enable student exchanges and visiting scientist programs in both directions between Qatar and Turkey, as well as joint grant applications. Additionally, we will establish research cohorts with similar disorders across the MENAT region, helping us gain deeper insights into disease patterns and therapeutic interventions.” The agreement paves the way for future joint initiatives, including research collaborations, training programs, and knowledge-sharing efforts that will benefit both institutions and the broader scientific community.
WCM-Q students gain real-world exposure to Qatar’s healthcare system
Doha – March 18, 2025: Seventeen students from Weill Cornell Medicine-Qatar’s (WCM-Q) foundation and pre-medical programs participated in the 2024-2025 Pre-Medical Observership Program. The program provides students with valuable exposure to the healthcare system in Qatar and the daily practices of medical professionals. It allows them to explore the different medical specialties and career options available. The students spent two weeks of their winter break at affiliate hospitals Hamad Medical Corporation (HMC) and Sidra Medicine, where they shadowed physicians during their daily rounds in various clinics, including obstetrics and gynecology, surgery, internal medicine, emergency, and trauma. They also observed doctor-patient interactions and listened to doctors’ discussions of cases, diagnoses, and potential treatment plans. An additional observation opportunity was exclusively offered to foundation students, who spent a week at Sidra Medicine as part of their English language course. The 19 participating students combined classroom knowledge with observations of hands-on clinical experiences. Their observations focused on themes such as professionalism, teamwork, and professional identity, with each hospital visit centered around a specific theme. Commenting on his experience, pre-medical student Abdulaziz Al-Hardan said: “I gained valuable insights into patient care, clinical decision-making, and the realities of working in a fast-paced medical environment. Witnessing a variety of intricate medical situations helped me appreciate the value of teamwork, empathy, and communication in the medical field.” This passion for medicine was echoed by fellow students Noof Al-Malik and Jassim Al-Hail from the foundation program. Al-Malik said: “As a foundation student, it’s easy to lose sight of the end goal while being preoccupied with studying. This program reminded me of my love for the profession and reignited my determination to work hard to achieve my goals.” Al-Hail added: “The days that had the most significant impact on me were spent in the Trauma Intensive Care Unit (TICU). We not only observed the meticulous work of the doctors and their team of residents while treating patients suffering from brain trauma, but we also learned invaluable lessons about life, religion, and the art of medicine.” Upon completing the observership, the students submitted reflective essays and received certificates of participation. Dr. Rachid Bendriss, associate dean for foundation, student outreach and educational development programs, said: “We are committed to providing our foundation and pre-medical students with the opportunity to gain firsthand experience of what practicing physicians face during their daily rotations. We are extremely grateful to our affiliates for hosting these enriching experiences. Offering such opportunities early in a student’s academic journey helps set realistic expectations about the challenges and rewards of a medical career.”
Sidra Medicine Study Identifies New Non-Invasive Method for Detecting Heart Disease Risk
Breakthrough Study Identifies Early Heart Disease Markers in Blood and Saliva 11 March 2025, Doha, Qatar – Sidra Medicine, a member of Qatar Foundation, has published a study in Scientific Reports, a journal from Nature Portfolio titled “Distinctive Blood and Salivary Proteomics Signatures in Qatari Individuals at High Risk for Cardiovascular Disease“. The study identifies protein markers that can help detect individuals at high risk of cardiovascular disease. These non-invasive methods contribute to advancing personalized healthcare and facilitating early diagnosis. Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality globally, accounting for 29 percent1 of all deaths in Qatar, with risk factors like diabetes and hypertension driving the disease burden. In the broader Middle Eastern population, CVD accounts for 34 percent2 of deaths. The Sidra Medicine study offers promising insights into precision medicine, with the potential to transform strategies for managing and preventing CVD. Dr. Souhaila Al Khodor, Director of the Perinatal and Reproductive Health Division and Principal Investigator at the Laboratory of Microbiome and Biomarkers Discovery, said: “Our study is a step forward in advancing precision medicine for cardiovascular disease. We identified eight biomarkers for CVD-risk that appear in both blood and saliva, demonstrating that non-invasive saliva-based testing could serve as an alternative to traditional blood tests. This approach could significantly improve screening efforts, allowing for timely interventions and better management of modifiable risk factors such as diabetes, hypertension, and high cholesterol.” The research, conducted as part of the Microbiome and Biomarkers Discovery lab at Sidra Medicine, was led by Dr. Souhaila Al Khodor and Principal Investigators, Dr. Annalisa Terranegra and Dr. Jean Charles Grivel. The multidisciplinary team also included Dr. Ghada Yousif, Research Specialist and Staff Scientists – Dr. Selvasankar Murugesan, Dr. Mohamed Nadhir Djekidel and Dr. Giusy Gentilcore. Prof. Khalid Fakhro, Chief Research Officer at Sidra Medicine, said: “Qatar has built a world-class ecosystem for precision medicine, integrating genomic research, national biobanking, and targeted healthcare initiatives. With participants recruited through Qatar Biobank and funding from the Qatar National Research Fund, this study demonstrates how we can translate local genetic insights into innovative healthcare solutions that has global implications. By focusing on cardiovascular disease, which has a significant death rate in the region, we are addressing a critical health challenge and working to reduce its impact on the Qatari population.” Sidra Medicine continues to lead in advancing innovative healthcare solutions tailored to the needs of the Qatari population. Through cutting edge research, Qatar is driving breakthroughs in precision medicine, enhancing early diagnosis and risk management for cardiovascular disease. Click here to read the full study, which was awarded via Qatar National Research Fund’s Path to Precision Medicine 2-PPM2 grant under the Qatar Genome Program.
Business Leaders – March 2025
Sidra Medicine’s ENT Service Delivers Breakthrough in Airway Surgery
Qatar’s Only National Pediatric Tracheostomy Program Provides Expert and Innovative Care for Airway Conditions 4 March 2025, Doha, Qatar – Sidra Medicine, a member of Qatar Foundation, is setting a new benchmark in pediatric healthcare with Qatar’s only national pediatric tracheostomy program. Supporting over 150 patients annually, the program has become a vital resource for families in Qatar, offering cutting-edge care and life-changing outcomes. In a recent success story, the Otolaryngology (ENT) team at Sidra Medicine successfully removed the tracheostomy tube of a 16-year-old patient. The patient experienced airway obstruction just above her vocal cords, which required the placement of a tracheostomy tube below the vocal cords to bypass the obstruction. Living with a breathing tube inserted through her neck was a life-altering condition, significantly limiting her as a high-functioning teenager. Despite undergoing multiple surgeries over the years to address the obstruction, previous attempts to resolve the issue and remove her tracheostomy had been unsuccessful. The team performed a unique combination of an epiglottoplasty and supraglottoplasty tailored specifically to her needs. The individualized approach, a first in Qatar, resolved the obstruction and allowed the patient to breathe normally through her nose for the first time in years. Dr. Taseer Feroze Din, an Attending Pediatric ENT Physician, who led the procedure on the young patient said: “This case highlights the strength of our airway surgical services and innovative approach to complex conditions. Our multidisciplinary team manages multiple new tracheostomies annually, cares for over 50 patients in long-term care, and supports over 100 patients in the community. Our team’s collaborative approach, which is harmonized by our nurse practitioner, Larkin Accinelli, has been pivotal in successes such as this. The aim of our program is to create a system that provides proactive management to prevent complications and optimize safe care for all our tracheostomized patients”. The patient’s mother shared her heartfelt gratitude: “Our daughter was born with a tightening in her throat, unable to breathe normally, and relied on a device to help her for the past 15 years. After five unsuccessful surgeries in the UK, Sidra Medicine here in Qatar, was the only place that could help her. We are deeply grateful to the doctors who provided exceptional care and checked on her tirelessly, even late into the night. It has been a long and painful journey since birth, but now after so many years, she can finally breathe on her own.” Dr. Faisal Abdelkader, Division Chief of Otolaryngology and Audiology at Sidra Medicine said: “Sidra Medicine’s tracheostomy program has doubled the number of successful tracheostomy removals in the past year, enabling children to lead more normal lives. The program has provided comprehensive care to local and international patients, including patients from Kuwait, Jordan, India, and Sri Lanka. We have become a trusted care partner for these families. I am equally proud of our efforts in presenting the development of the national tracheostomy program at international conferences in the USA, UAE and Tanzania, reinforcing our leadership in pediatric airway and tracheostomy care”. In addition to complex airway surgeries, the ENT service at Sidra Medicine provides a wide range of services, including complex sinus surgery, endoscopic ear surgery, pediatric sleep apnea treatment including the latest advances in adenoid and tonsil surgery, anterior skull base leak repair, endoscopic tear duct opening (DCR) and thyroid surgery. Using state-of-the-art equipment and a patient-centered approach, the team ensures exceptional care with optimal outcomes. For international inquiries about Sidra Medicine’s ENT services, please contact International.services@sidra.org. If you are based in Qatar, please call 40033333 for more information.
Sidra Medicine and Rasmal Ventures Partner to Drive Digital Health Innovation in Qatar
Advancing Healthcare Through E-health Innovation and Startup Integration 25 February 2025, Doha, Qatar – Sidra Medicine, a member of Qatar Foundation, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Rasmal Ventures, Qatar’s first venture capital firm. The strategic partnership, announced at the Web Summit Qatar 2025, marks a significant step in the hospital’s role in supporting and advancing digital health innovation in Qatar and beyond. Rasmal Ventures, with its extensive portfolio of global technology companies, will introduce Sidra Medicine to high-potential e-health startups and provide strategic support to incorporate innovative solutions into Sidra Medicine’s operations. In return, Sidra Medicine will contribute its clinical and research expertise to evaluate and refine the startups’ healthcare technologies, ensuring they are effective, scalable, and patient-focused. Moreover, the two organizations will develop entrepreneurship programs that encourage the development and growth of a Health-Tech sector for Qatar. Prof. Khalid Fakhro, Chief Research Officer at Sidra Medicine said: “This partnership highlights our commitment to establishing Sidra Medicine as a leading healthcare innovation hub in Qatar, in alignment with the Qatar National Vision 2030. By collaborating with Rasmal Ventures, we are building upon our current strengths in clinical care, genomics and cell and gene therapy, and taking a proactive approach to adopting innovative technologies and transforming Sidra Medicine into a living lab for entrepreneurial ventures from across Qatar and the world.” The MOU establishes a collaborative framework between the two entities to facilitate the exchange of expertise and best practices in e-health innovations. Through this partnership, Sidra Medicine and Rasmal Ventures aim to drive advancements in innovation, focusing on digital healthcare solutions such as patient-centric artificial intelligence (AI) technologies, telemedicine platforms, and wearable devices. Alexander Wiedmer, Co-Managing Partner at Rasmal Ventures said: “At Rasmal Ventures, we believe that innovation is key to transforming healthcare. Our partnership with Sidra Medicine represents a unique opportunity to bring the latest digital health technologies to the forefront, empowering Qatar’s healthcare system to deliver smarter, more efficient, and patient-centered care.” As part of the agreement, the two entities will host joint workshops, pilot studies, and discussions to validate the efficacy of emerging technologies and foster an open environment for innovation. This partnership positions Sidra Medicine as a driving force in healthcare innovation, creating valuable opportunities for biotech and healthtech leaders. It also underscores Sidra Medicine’s role as a premier destination for medical education and research, attracting innovators and nurturing the development of next-generation healthcare solutions.
Sidra Medicine Celebrates Graduates of Certificate in Leadership Program at Georgetown University in Qatar
Empowering the Next Generation of Healthcare Leaders 5 February 2025, Doha, Qatar – In a closing ceremony at Georgetown University in Qatar (GU-Q), Sidra Medicine celebrated the achievements of 14 middle and senior managers who completed the newly launched Strategic Leadership Development Certificate Program offered by Georgetown University. In her remarks, Dr. Iyabo Tinubu-Karch, CEO of Sidra Medicine, gave a background on why she initiated the program and the outcome she hoped to achieve, saying, “Our partnership with GU-Q has been instrumental in strengthening our investment in the growth of our national talent. I am confident that together, we will continue advancing Qatar’s vision of cultivating a highly skilled, innovative, and capable workforce—one that will drive the nation’s healthcare and broader development goals forward.” In her message to the graduates, Dr. Kelly Otter, Dean of Georgetown University School of Continuing Studies highlighted the importance of strategic leadership in building a better world, saying, “Your dedication and hard work will not only advance the goals of Sidra Medicine, but also will serve your communities well by providing holistic, patient-centric care. Your contributions will ensure that precision medicine is an accessible reality for many in the Gulf region.” Aysha Al-Kuwari, Director of the Talent Management Division at Sidra Medicine, added, “Strong leadership is the backbone of any successful healthcare institution. Through this collaboration with GU-Q, our managers have gained the skills to lead with confidence, adaptability, and a patient-first mindset—qualities that will drive both individual and institutional success at Sidra Medicine.” Launched in May 2024, the Strategic Leadership Certificate Program featured a distinguished faculty lineup, combining academic insights from Georgetown University’s Department of Health Systems Management with practical expertise from experienced healthcare industry executives. This tailored approach ensured that the 14 certificate holders are prepared to apply global healthcare insights and practical strategies to Sidra Medicine’s unique operational environment, leading to improved patient outcomes and enhanced organizational efficiency. Highlighting the Qatar campus’s strategic location and capacity to support this program, Andrew Henley, Chief Operating Officer of GU-Q, remarked, “As we celebrate our 20th Anniversary in Qatar, we are proud to support Georgetown’s School of Continuing Studies and leverage Georgetown’s global network of faculty expertise through GU-Q’s Office of Executive and Professional Education to help build Qatar’s knowledge economy and contribute to positive health, social, and economic outcomes for the region.”
