17-07-2025
Saudi's Game-Changer hospital eyes Global role
TDT | Manama
King Faisal Specialist Hospital & Research Centre (KFSHRC) has been awarded Global Healthcare Accreditation (GHA) for Medical Travel Services, earning a 95 percent score that cements its role as a leader in Saudi Arabia's transformation into a global medical destination.
The recognition reflects the Kingdom's shift from a historically outbound medical travel market to one now attracting international patients. In 2024 alone, KFSHRC treated individuals from 17 different countries, reinforcing its reputation as a trusted centre for complex, cross-border care.
Trusted care
The GHA certification, granted by a US-based body, evaluates hospitals on international standards that prioritise patient-centred care, cultural competence, care coordination, and post-treatment follow-up. KFSHRC's high score confirms its ability to deliver on all fronts.
'This accreditation affirms our commitment to providing international patients with exceptional care,' said Dr. Amaal AlDakheel, Director of International Healthcare Services at KFSHRC. 'The GHA process was more than a compliance exercise. It offered us deep reflection, professional exchange, and valuable learning that strengthened our readiness to serve the world.'
Vision-driven shift
Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 calls for developing the country as a world-class hub for healthcare and medical tourism. KFSHRC is taking a lead in this goal by aiming to attract at least 5 percent of patients who would otherwise seek treatment abroad. Renée-Marie Stephano, CEO of Global Healthcare Accreditation, said KFSHRC reflects the bold ambition of this vision. 'Their commitment to excellence and global best practices exemplifies the future of safe, patient-centred international healthcare.'
Cutting-edge capabilities
To prepare for the accreditation, KFSHRC trained staff in GHA's methodology and standards. Several team members earned the Advanced Certified Medical Travel Professional designation, enhancing the hospital's ability to support diverse patient needs and expectations.
KFSHRC also offers specialised care across eight Centres of Excellence covering cancer, transplant, neuroscience, heart, genome, surgery, paediatrics and women's health. Equipped with advanced technologies like CAR T-cell therapy and robotic surgery, it stands as one of the few institutions in the region offering such high-level treatments.
The hospital was recently ranked 15th globally and first in the Middle East and Africa among the world's top 250 academic medical centres. It was also named the most valuable healthcare brand in the region by Brand Finance and included in Newsweek's list of the World's Best Smart Hospitals.
Global network
GHA is creating a broader international healthcare ecosystem by connecting accredited hospitals with insurers, referral partners, and travel providers. KFSHRC's inclusion in this network enhances its access to new markets, improves patient trust, and supports Saudi Arabia's ambition to become a preferred destination for medical travel.
As one of the first in the region to achieve such a high standard, King Faisal Specialist Hospital is not only raising the bar for healthcare at home but also helping shape the Middle East's future as a trusted destination for advanced international treatment.
