Latest news with #RazaSiddiqui
Khaleej Times
27-03-2025
- Health
- Khaleej Times
RAK Hospital distributes iftar meals for taxi drivers
In the spirit of giving and community support, RAK Hospital continues its Ramadan initiative by distributing hundreds of iftar meals to RAK Taxi drivers. Recognizing the relentless dedication of these unsung heroes, the hospital is ensuring that those who spend their days on the road, often away from their families, receive a warm meal to break their fast. The Iftar meal distribution, held at the hospital premises, brought together dozens of taxi drivers who were greeted with appreciation and respect. These drivers play an essential role in keeping the city moving, yet their contributions often go unnoticed. Through this initiative, RAK Hospital aims to show gratitude and offer them a moment of comfort and care during the holy month. Dr. Raza Siddiqui, Executive Director of RAK Hospital, emphasized the importance of such community-driven efforts: 'Ramadan serves as a reminder that simple acts of generosity—whether a meal, a kind word, or a helping hand—can make a profound difference in someone's day. Taxi drivers form the backbone of our daily lives, yet their efforts often go unnoticed. This initiative is our way of thanking them and ensuring they feel valued during this holy month.'
Zawya
19-02-2025
- Business
- Zawya
GCC healthcare industry set for robust growth, forecasts Alpen Capital
Dubai – Alpen Capital's latest healthcare industry report for the GCC forecasts the Current Healthcare Expenditure (CHE) in the region to reach US$ 159 billion by 2029, implying an annualized growth rate of 7.8%. During the forecast period, CHE in the GCC countries is anticipated to increase at growth rates ranging from 4.0% to 8.8% UAE-based investment banking advisory firm, Alpen Capital, launched its latest GCC Healthcare Industry report which features forecasts on the sector, recent analysis on trends, growth drivers and challenges facing the segment. It also profiles some of the key healthcare companies in the region. The report was launched over a webinar followed by a panel discussion featuring Dr. Raza Siddiqui, Group CEO, Arabian Healthcare Group & Executive Director, RAK Hospitals; Dr. Mohaymen Abdelghany, Chief Executive Officer, Fakeeh University Hospital and Olivier Tricou, Managing Director, Alpen Capital. Hameed Noor Mohamed, Managing Director, Alpen Capital moderated the discussion ' The GCC healthcare industry is poised for strong growth driven by macro-economic factors, a growing and ageing population, and the expansion of mandatory health insurance. Government-led diversification strategies and national development plans of the GCC will continue to enhance the healthcare infrastructure and facilities, bringing them at par with international standards. Further growth of the healthcare industry will be fueled by privatization initiatives, substantial investments in digital transformation and rising demand for specialized healthcare services. Looking ahead, we expect the sector to offer innovative opportunities for investors and operators to expand their presence and deliver advanced, high quality healthcare services ', says Sameena Ahmad, Managing Director, Alpen Capital (ME) Limited. 'The GCC healthcare industry is experiencing significant transformation, driven by a growing demand for specialized medical centers and increasing medical tourism. In response, private sector players are investing heavily to expand healthcare services and meet the needs of a diverse population. Key trends shaping the industry include the rapid adoption of artificial intelligence and digitalization, which are enhancing diagnostics, patient care, and operational efficiency. Additionally, there is a notable increase in specialized clinics to address complex medical conditions and cater to specific patient demographics. To remain competitive, healthcare organizations are developing strategic plans that leverage technology and multi-specialty services. This ongoing transformation is expected to drive a dynamic M&A landscape, as operators seek to scale, innovate, and align with the region's evolving healthcare demands', says Olivier Tricou, Managing Director, Alpen Capital (ME) Limited. According to Alpen Capital, CHE in the GCC is expected to grow from an estimated US$ 109.1 billion in 2024 to US$ 159 billion in 2029, at a CAGR of 7.8%. The region's expanding population base, high incidence of NCDs, rising cost of treatment and medical inflation, coupled with increasing penetration of health insurance are expected to drive growth. CHE as a proportion of GDP in the GCC is anticipated to grow from 5.0% in 2024 to 5.7% in 2029. The growth varies widely among the GCC nations largely owing to country-specific population projections, economic conditions and cost of healthcare among other factors. Saudi Arabia is likely to witness the highest growth rate at 8.8%, whereas the UAE's healthcare industry is expected to grow at a CAGR of 6.7% during the forecast period. . The market rankings are expected to remain unchanged, with Saudi Arabia and the UAE dominating the region's CHE with a combined share of 82.6% by 2029. CHE of Qatar, Kuwait, Bahrain and Oman is expected to grow at CAGRs of 8.3%, 6.3%, 6.0% and 4.0%, respectively between 2024-2029. The report forecasts that the region is likely to require 12,317 new hospital beds between 2024 and 2029. This translates into an estimated annual average growth of 1.9% since 2024 to reach a collective bed capacity of 140,572. Majority of the new additions are expected to be driven by the private sector as the GCC governments have started focusing on privatization to reduce cost burden and increase standard of care. Saudi Arabia is likely to witness the highest demand for beds in the GCC at over 8,500 new beds, accounting for 69.0% of the region's total additions during the forecast period. The report highlights that economic growth, coupled with the governments' focus on economic diversification, is expected to drive healthcare investments in infrastructure and human capital development. Key demographic trends – such as population growth, increasing life expectancy at birth, and improvements in infant mortality rate– are shaping the regions' healthcare demand. Notably, the proportion of population over 50 years is projected to increase from 12.7% in 2024 to 13.8% in 2029, further intensifying the demand for specialized healthcare services. Additionally, the expansion of health insurance coverage and the rise in medical tourism are expected to boost the utilization of private hospitals and healthcare services. Despite these strong growth drivers, the GCC's healthcare sector faces several challenges. The industry remains highly reliant on foreign healthcare professionals across specialties. There also remains a gap in supply of specialized care units in the tertiary care segment, contributing to rising outbound medical tourism. Moreover, the cost of healthcare services continues to rise due to high prevalence of non-communicable diseases (NCDs), increasing demand for advanced treatments, dependence on imported medical supplies, and a shortage of specialized treatment centers. In response, the GCC governments are actively promoting privatization through public-private partnership (PPP) models to increase quality and efficiency of care. Significant investments in digital transformation aim to integrate innovative technologies for better healthcare outcomes. Another key trend, precision medicine and genomics are gaining traction with a goal of developing targeted treatments and therapies. Additionally, the rising demand for specialized and complex treatments is accelerating the establishment of Centers of Excellence (CoEs), long-term post-acute care (LTPAC) facilities and home healthcare services. As the sector continues to mature, PPPs are expected to bring about a shift in care delivery that will be pivotal in shaping the industry's landscape. With the GCC healthcare ecosystem becoming more digital and patient-centric, health-tech innovations present significant prospects for growth. Going forward, industry players are likely to focus on value-driven investments, with larger operators targeting smaller providers and tech-enabled healthcare firms to expand their service offerings. About Alpen Capital: Alpen Capital (ME) Limited is incorporated as a limited liability company in the Dubai International Financial Centre, Dubai, United Arab Emirates and is licensed by the Dubai Financial Services Authority. Alpen Capital offers a full range of investment banking advisory services in the areas of M & A, Debt, Equity and Capital Markets to some of the largest business conglomerates and financial institutions in the GCC and South Asia. It has offices in Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Doha, Muscat and New Delhi. About Alpen Asset Advisors: Alpen Asset Advisors Limited, is an independent wealth management firm offering private banking and asset management services. It offers a comprehensive offering covering all asset classes, investment themes & styles and sectors. With our open architecture platform we identify investment opportunities and design an investment program to achieve the wealth creation within the given risk appetite. For media queries, please contact: Rasheed Palliyalil Watermelon Communications Dubai, UAE rasheed@
Zawya
10-02-2025
- Health
- Zawya
RAK Hospital launches 5th edition of the UAE's biggest weight loss challenge with a new family category
Cash prizes will be awarded to the top male and female winners, with AED 300 per kilogram of weight lost for first place, AED 200 for second place, and AED 100 for third place Registration for the 3-month-long challenge opens on February 10, 2025 Ras Al Khaimah, UAE – Leading a crucial health movement and encouraging the community to create a culture of wellness, RAK Hospital in association with Ministry of Health & Prevention Ras Al Khaimah is excited to announce the return of its flagship RAK Biggest Weight Loss Challenge (RBWLC) for 2025, a transformative initiative aimed at tackling one of the world's most pressing health concerns—obesity. Now in its 5th year, this year's challenge introduces a new Family Category to encourage families to work together toward better health, making it a more inclusive and community-driven event. This 12-week initiative, running from February 21 to May 22, 2025, invites families across the country to join forces in the battle against obesity. With over 2 billion adults classified as overweight worldwide and 650 million as obese (according to the World Health Organization), the UAE has not escaped the crisis. In fact, nearly 40% of adults and 40% of children in the UAE are affected by obesity, contributing to a rise in chronic conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, and cancer. The RAK Biggest Weight Loss Challenge seeks to change this alarming trajectory. 'We are thrilled to bring back the RBWLC for its 5th year, and this time with an exciting twist—introducing a Family Category to make the challenge even more inclusive,' said Dr. Raza Siddiqui, Executive Director of RAK Hospital. 'The family unit is the cornerstone of society, and when families come together to embrace healthier habits, they not only improve their own health but also create a positive ripple effect within their communities.' 'Our initiative has gained significant attention, not only within the UAE but globally, with participants from various countries expressing interest in joining the challenge. We are proud to host such a large-scale contest that is transforming lives on an international level. Plans are already underway to explore how we can expand the challenge to reach a wider audience. In previous years, we have proven that lifestyle changes can profoundly impact health, and our winners, along with their families, have experienced the lasting benefits of being part of this life-changing movement.' The Family Category encourages parents, children, and even extended family members to participate together, committing to a healthier lifestyle as a team. This approach not only promotes accountability but makes the weight loss journey more engaging, fun, and sustainable for everyone involved—no matter their age. The decision to introduce the new Family Category reflects RAK Hospital's recognition that lasting change begins at home. 'We've been proactive in encouraging more people to join this movement, continuously introducing new elements with each edition. Last year, we launched the School Category, inviting students and staff to participate as a team. This year, we're excited to introduce the Family Category. When families align with common health goals, it creates a supportive environment for sustainable change. Children learn healthy habits, and adults find strength in working together toward a shared objective,' said Prof. Adrian Kennedy, Chief Wellness Officer at Arabian Wellness and Lifestyle Management, the wellness division of RAK Hospital. Registration for the 2025 RAK Biggest Weight Loss Challenge (RBWLC) is now open,with participants invited to sign up for free on the official competition website Participants can choose from several categories based on their preference and goals: Physical Challenge: Weigh-in at RAK Hospital at both the start and end of the challenge. Virtual Challenge: Weigh-in at a local clinic of their choice. Corporate Team Challenge: Companies can form teams, with the top 10 employees' average weight loss determining the winning team. School Weight Loss Team: This category invites teams of 10 or more staff members from schools to compete. Also the school with the lowest average BMI recorded for its children (boys & girls) will be recognized. Family Category: New for 2025, families can now compete together as a team. This encourages families to work together on their health journey; participants can register in either the Physical or Virtual challenge. The 2025 RBWL Challenge offers exciting prizes and recognition across multiple categories. In the Physical Category, the top male and female participants will receive cash prizes of AED 300, AED 200, and AED 100 per kilogram of weight lost. The Virtual Category rewards participants win staycations, health packages, dining vouchers, and gym memberships. In the Corporate Team Challenge, the winning team will receive the prestigious RBWLC25 Corporate Trophy, while the School Weight Loss Team will compete for the RBWLC25 School Weight Loss Team Trophy. The Family Category (new for 2025) encourages families to join as a team, winning an array of lifestyle vouchers. The RAK Biggest Weight Loss Challenge represents RAK Hospital's ongoing commitment to improving public health. By raising awareness about obesity and providing practical tools, support, and education, the hospital is driving meaningful change. The challenge is more than just a competition—it's a movement aimed at fostering a culture of wellness that extends beyond the event itself and into everyday life. Prepare for the transformative journey! Weigh-ins for the Physical Category participants are scheduled from Feb 21-23, 2025 at RAK Hospital. Virtual participants can weigh in at their local clinic, and Corporate Teams and Schools can register as teams to embark on this health-focused adventure. For more information about the challenge, including how to register and details about the categories, visit
Gulf News
10-02-2025
- Health
- Gulf News
Win cash prizes with UAE's Biggest Weight Loss Challenge
Ras Al Khaimah: Residents now have the opportunity to lose weight and win cash prizes in the UAE. RAK Hospital in association with Ministry of Health and Prevention (MoHP) Ras Al Khaimah on Monday announced the return of its flagship RAK Biggest Weight Loss Challenge (RBWLC) for 2025, a transformative initiative aimed at tackling one of the world's most pressing health concerns — obesity. Now in its 5th year, this year's challenge introduces a new family category to encourage families to work together toward better health, making it a more inclusive and community-driven event. This 12-week initiative, running from February 21 to May 22, 2025, invites families across the country to join forces in the battle against obesity. 'We are thrilled to bring back the weight loss challenge for its 5th year, and this time with an exciting twist — introducing a Family Category to make the challenge even more inclusive,' said Dr. Raza Siddiqui, Executive Director of RAK Hospital. 'The family unit is the cornerstone of society, and when families come together to embrace healthier habits, they not only improve their own health but also create a positive ripple effect within their communities.' The Challenge offers exciting prizes and recognition across multiple categories. In the Physical Category, the top male and female participants will receive cash prizes of Dh300, Dh200, and Dh100 per kilogram of weight lost. The Family Category encourages parents, children, and even extended family members to participate together, committing to a healthier lifestyle as a team. This approach not only promotes accountability but makes the weight loss journey more engaging, fun, and sustainable for everyone involved — no matter their age. 'We have been proactive in encouraging more people to join this movement, continuously introducing new elements with each edition. Last year, we launched the School Category, inviting students and staff to participate as a team. This year, we're excited to introduce the Family Category. When families align with common health goals, it creates a supportive environment for sustainable change. Children learn healthy habits, and adults find strength in working together toward a shared objective,' said Prof. Adrian Kennedy, Chief Wellness Officer at Arabian Wellness and Lifestyle Management, the wellness division of RAK Hospital. Registration for the weight loss challenge is now open, with participants invited to sign up for free on the official competition website. Participants can choose from several categories based on their preference and goals: Physical Challenge: Weigh-in at RAK Hospital at both the start and end of the challenge. Virtual Challenge: Weigh-in at a local clinic of their choice. Corporate Team Challenge: Companies can form teams, with the top 10 employees' average weight loss determining the winning team. School Weight Loss Team: This category invites teams of 10 or more staff members from schools to compete. Also the school with the lowest average BMI recorded for its children (boys & girls) will be recognised. Family Category: New for 2025, families can now compete together as a team. This encourages families to work together on their health journey; participants can register in either the Physical or Virtual challenge. Sign up for the Daily Briefing Get the latest news and updates straight to your inbox
Khaleej Times
10-02-2025
- Health
- Khaleej Times
UAE: Win up to Dh300 for every kilo you lose as weight loss challenge returns with new category
You can win up to Dh300 per each kilogramme you lose as the UAE's annual weight loss challenge returns this February. Now in its fifth year, the RAK Biggest Weight Loss Challenge (RBWLC) will run for 12 weeks from February 21 to May 22. Registration for the challenge is now open, with participants invited to sign up for free. This year, organisers have added a new category encouraging families to work together. In the 'physical category', the top male and female participants will receive cash prizes of Dh300, Dh200, and Dh100 per kilogramme of weight lost. The 'virtual category' rewards participants with staycations, health packages, dining vouchers, and gym memberships. Stay up to date with the latest news. Follow KT on WhatsApp Channels. According to RAK Hospital, nearly 40 per cent of adults and 40 per cent of children in the UAE are affected by obesity, contributing to a rise in chronic conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, and cancer. 'We are thrilled to bring back the RBWLC for its 5th year, and this time with an exciting twist — introducing a Family Category to make the challenge even more inclusive,' said Dr Raza Siddiqui, executive director of RAK Hospital. 'Our initiative has gained significant attention, not only within the UAE but globally, with participants from various countries expressing interest in joining the challenge. Plans are already underway to explore how we can expand the challenge to reach a wider audience.' The new 'family category' encourages parents, children, and extended family members to participate together. Participants can register for either the physical or virtual challenge. They stand to win lifestyle vouchers. The physical category requires participants to have weight checks at RAK Hospital at both the start and end of the challenge. For the virtual one, weigh-in can be done at a local clinic. In the corporate team challenge, the top 10 employees' average weight loss determines the winning team. The 'school weight loss' category invites teams of 10 or more staff members from schools to compete. The school with the lowest average BMI recorded for its children (boys and girls) will be recognised. Both these categories will see trophies awarded.
