Latest news with #SaudiGermanHospital
Khaleej Times
2 days ago
- General
- Khaleej Times
UAE: Some schools issue chickenpox advisories, doctors urge vaccinations
Doctors in the UAE are urging parents to ensure their children are vaccinated against chickenpox. This advisory follows health notices issued by a few schools after some reported cases of chickenpox. Institutions have also observed instances of scarlet fever, a bacterial infection, among students. Medics explained that chickenpox, a contagious viral infection, tends to see increased activity during the warmer months. Higher temperatures can contribute to the spread of the virus, especially in environments where children are in close contact for extended periods. Stay up to date with the latest news. Follow KT on WhatsApp Channels. Immunise with two doses Dr Hamza Rahhal, Pediatric Consultant at Saudi German Hospital Dubai, said the increase in chickenpox cases is noticeable in school environments. 'There has indeed been an increase in reported chickenpox (varicella) cases among children, particularly within school environments,' he said. Rahhal linked the trend to missed immunisations during the pandemic. 'During the pandemic, many routine childhood vaccinations were delayed or missed. Some parents may also have postponed non-essential clinic visits. This has left a cohort of children either unvaccinated or partially immunised, increasing susceptibility.' Echoing the concern, Dr Mohamed Shahid Padiyar, Specialist Pediatrician at Medcare Hospital Sharjah, noted a change in how the disease is presenting in some children. 'There has definitely been an increase in chickenpox cases recently, particularly among school-aged children. We're seeing more intense symptoms than usual in some cases — higher fevers, more widespread and inflamed rashes, and increased skin infections due to scratching,' he said. 'In rare cases, children develop complications like pneumonia or neurological symptoms, especially if they have a weakened immune system.' Dr Mamata Bothra, Specialist in Pediatrics and Neonatology at International Modern Hospital Dubai, added that high summer temperatures and poor immunity can worsen the situation. 'Severe chickenpox infections can be seen in individuals with weak immunity and with certain medical conditions. Rising summer temperature also can increase the chances of spread of virus,' she said. 'Prevention is possible and most important is to vaccinate the child at right age and complete two doses as recommended. Beyond vaccination, practice good hygiene and avoid exposure to infected individuals.' Cases in primary sections Meanwhile, one Dubai school, in a recent circular shared with parents, confirmed a few cases of chickenpox within its primary section. The school circular read, 'We are writing to inform you that a few cases of chickenpox have recently been reported in our Primary School. These include two students (in Year 2 and KG2) and one staff member. Chickenpox is a highly contagious viral infection, and we are taking all necessary precautions to protect the health and wellbeing of our school community.' The communication further assured parents of the steps taken to contain the spread. 'The affected individuals are isolating at home, and all impacted classrooms and shared areas were thoroughly disinfected. The situation is being closely monitored by the school's medical team. Parents have been informed that chickenpox typically has an incubation period of 10 to 21 days, with early symptoms including fever, fatigue, and red, itchy spots that often begin on the chest or abdomen.' Institutions clarified the protocol followed by their network of schools. Dr Mirrah Kandil, Group Medical Director at GEMS Education, 'Only when we have a confirmed case, do we notify the health authority and share an exposure hazard letter with parents. This informs parents about what to be aware of in terms of potential symptoms and to seek medical assistance early.' 'We have not seen a significant rise in cases in GEMS schools. We maintain a central infection control database, in which we log all cases across the GEMS group — and we have not seen any spikes,' she added. 'Chickenpox is a vaccine-preventable disease, and we urge parents and guardians to get timely vaccinations. Prevention is better than cure.' Other school leaders also reported scattered infections and outlined the response measures being followed. Dr Arogya Reddy, Principal of Ambassador School Sharjah, said while chickenpox cases haven't been reported at their school, scarlet fever has emerged among students. 'We've observed a few illnesses circulating in schools here. In addition to chickenpox, scarlet fever is also making rounds. While we haven't recorded any chickenpox cases in our school, we have seen instances of scarlet fever, which is infectious.' Reddy emphasised the school's detailed response protocol in such cases. 'Our protocol involves identifying the affected student, informing their family, and then notifying the relevant authorities, specifically the Preventive Department under the Ministry of Health and Prevention (MoHAP). Depending on the severity of the case, students are required to stay home for at least seven days. Upon their return, they must present a Fitness Certificate issued by their treating doctor.'
Syyaha
4 days ago
- Health
- Syyaha
Healthtrip launches Healinharam.com to strengthen Saudi Arabia's position as a global medical and wellness tourism hub
Riyadh: 2nd June 2025: Healthtrip, the world's largest health travel platform, has launched a dedicated digital platform that connects international tourists, particularly pilgrims, to a trusted network of medical, wellness, and chronic care servicesacross Makkah, Madinah, and Jeddah. The initiative directly supports Saudi Arabia's broader ambition to establish itself as a global hub for medical and wellness tourism, in line with Vision 2030. It also responds to increasing demand for high-quality care services during pilgrimage as the Kingdom continues to rapidly scale its healthcare infrastructure and wellness offerings. 'Muslims around the world spend over $20 billion on medical tourism, and a majority of these patients also travel to the holy cities for pilgrimage. With the recent launches of world-class hospitals and wellness retreats in Saudi Arabia, we recognized the increasing demand for quality care during pilgrimage seasons. This inspired the creation of Heal in Haram – a dedicated platform enabling customers to heal their bodies and souls, during a pilgrimage trip.' said Obaidullah Junaid, CEO, Healthtrip (Riyadh HQ). Through pilgrims can now book health screenings, wellness therapies, and essential treatments such as dialysis,chemotherapy, etc, at leading Saudi hospitals including Saudi German Hospital, Kings College Hospital, Fakeeh, Care Medical Makkah, Wellcare Medical by IMC, and Makkah Medical Center by Dallah – all through one integrated app. Dr. Ahmed Shebl, Group CEO of Saudi German Health, said, 'At the Saudi German group, we're very well placed to serve international patients and pilgrims, through our hospitals across the Holy Cities and Jeddah. In addition, we manage medical facilities in Mina and Arafa during Hajj to serve pilgrims from across the world. Recently, we became the first Saudi hospital to get the TEMOS accreditation for serving international patients. We've already started getting international patients through Healthtrip and are excited to partner with them in the Heal In Haram initiative '. According to the General Authority for Statistics (GASTAT), Saudi Arabia recorded 1.83 million Hajj pilgrims in 2024, with nearly 88% arriving from abroad, and a 31% surge during the fourth quarter of 2024 compared to the same quarter in 2023. Claire Smith, CEO, Kings College Hospital Jeddah, said, 'At Kings College Hospital, we are inspired with the opportunity of global tourists coming to the Kingdom. Our hospital in Jeddah brings the latest technology and top global talent together, offering patients world-class healthcare near the Holy Cities. We're excited to partner with Healthtrip and offer our executive health checkup and other treatments to pilgrims through Heal in Haram.' Danish Ahmed – Founder, Healthtrip said, 'The unprecedented growth in tourism is coming along with remarkable globalization of the Kingdom's healthcare landscape, making it an oasis of healing in the MENA region. addresses a real need for structured access to quality healthcare during pilgrimage. Additionally, there is a unique opportunity to promote Prophetic Medicine in wellness offerings, especially along the Kingdom's pristine coastlines and tranquil mountains. World-class retreats are also being developed in Medina – the city of tranquility – which is bound to attract thousands of wellness seekers from around the world. These developments created a compelling need for a dedicated platform to showcase the Kingdom's healthcare offerings to our global customer base. Since its inception, Healthtrip has served over 70,000 international patients from 42 countries, through a global network of 1,500+ accredited healthcare providers. With 6,800 channel partners and extensive experience in medical concierge services, the company offers tailored solutions in medical tourism, cosmetic care, wellness programs, and chronic condition management. With in-house health travel technology and tech-first approach – including multilingual AI chatbots and integrated scheduling tools, the comprehensive system ensures a seamless, end-to-end patient journey – from initial consultation and appointment booking to travel logistics, on-site support, and post-treatment follow-ups – all while upholding the highest standards of safety, dignity, and patient-centered care. Healthtrip plays a vital role in promoting premier healthcare destinations such as Saudi Arabia, helping to expand access to high-quality medical care while reducing travel barriers and enhancing patient trust.
Arabian Business
7 days ago
- Business
- Arabian Business
Sultan Batterjee on turning IHCC into Saudi Arabia's leading turnkey construction company
Sultan Batterjee doesn't just build Healthcare facilities or residential projects– he builds ecosystems. As Chairman & CEO of IHCC, he's led the delivery of more than 25 advanced healthcare campuses across the Middle East, transformed the company into one of Saudi Arabia's top contracting companies. But Sultan Batterjee's ambition runs deeper than just infrastructure. Whether retrofitting 3,300 schools for energy savings or launching the Kingdom's first Marriott Autograph hotel through a Saudi-born concept, Batterjee is clear on one thing – developments, when done right, can change lives. In this rare interview, he explains how legacy shapes his leadership, why wellness is central to his development strategy, and where IHCC is heading next. As CEO of IHCC for over 18 years, you've established it as a world-renowned turnkey solution provider. What do you consider your most significant achievement in transforming healthcare infrastructure in the MENA region? One of my most significant achievements has been transforming IHCC into a trusted partner for world-class healthcare infrastructure in the MENA region and a turnkey solutions provider across multiple industries including education, healthcare, hospitality and complex projects. We have delivered over 25 hospitals and medical cities, including flagship projects like Saudi German Hospital in Dammam, Saudi German Hospital in Cairo, and other medical cities throughout the Kingdom in across the MENA. What sets IHCC apart is our holistic turnkey model – we design, build, equip, and even manage healthcare ecosystems that are tailored to the region's clinical, cultural, and economic needs. We also deliver high-performance building solutions, and we use innovative and sustainable methods to create buildings that are energy efficient, comfortable and durable. In 2021, we became the first organisation in Saudi Arabia to achieve the WELL Health and Safety rating that demonstrates our adherence to the highest standards of health and safety protocols. Also, our head office is a Platinum LEED building which reflects our commitment to sustainability. Your company was recently listed among the top 5 construction companies in Saudi Arabia. What key strategies have driven IHCC's growth and success under your leadership? Our success lies in our specialisation and our ability to deliver complex, end-to-end solutions. We focus on high-impact sectors – healthcare, education, hospitality design and engineering to MEP, fitout and facilities management, we control the value chain. This ensures speed, quality, and innovation. Strategic partnerships with public entities like the PIF and leading private organisations have also driven consistent growth. As a third-generation member of the Batterjee family, with business roots extending over 100 years, how has this legacy influenced your approach to business and leadership? Legacy to me is a responsibility, not just a history. My grandfather pioneered private healthcare in Saudi Arabia; my father scaled it across the Arab world. That deeply influenced my belief in purpose-driven development. With IHCC, I have taken that legacy forward by building institutions that create long-term social value – from Hospitals and Universities to green communities and mixed-use environments, every project we take on must serve a larger mission and I always to keep all my companies continuously serve one purpose under the umbrella of the holding company -Sultan Batterjee Holding. Could you tell us about the Centre of Excellence Batterjee in Medical City Dubai and the Makkah Saudi German Hospital? How do these projects reflect your vision for healthcare facilities? Both are examples of next-generation healthcare destinations. The Centre of Excellence in Dubai is a regional leader in specialist care and medical training, equipped with the latest digital and research infrastructure. The Saudi German Hospital in Makkah is built to serve not only residents but also millions of pilgrims annually. These projects reflect our belief that healthcare must be accessible, technologically advanced, and culturally contextual. You've successfully collaborated with global hospitality giants like Marriott and Four Seasons. Are you exploring similar strategic partnerships with international wellness operators – whether in preventive health, longevity, or lifestyle medicine – to complement your mixed-use and wellness-focused developments? Absolutely. At Sultan Batterjee Holding, we see wellness and hospitality as a cornerstone of future-forward development. Just as we have collaborated with leading hospitality brands like Marriott and Four Seasons to elevate standards of living for generations to come. Our goal is to embed world-class wellness infrastructure into our mixed-use and healthcare-focused developments, aligning with both Vision 2030 and the growing demand for holistic, health-enhancing environments. These partnerships are not just about adding amenities – they're about shaping healthier, more resilient communities. We adopt biophilic designs and green spaces across all our developments, most of which are LEED certified, to enhance the well-being of all communities and geographical areas. The recent Green Mosques Initiative aims to rationalise energy use in 100 mosques across the Kingdom. What inspired this project, and what sustainable solutions are you implementing? This initiative came from our belief that sustainability should be integrated into every part of our society – including spiritual spaces, which is part of our social responsibility towards the community. Through Greener by IHCC, we are applying solar retrofits, smart lighting, and water efficiency systems to mosques, starting with pilot projects in Jeddah and Riyadh. It's about leading by example and contributing to Saudi Arabia's Net Zero goals in a culturally meaningful way. As another example, we partnered with Tarsheed for an initiative, spearheaded by Greener by IHCC, a transformative energy efficiency programme aimed at enhancing sustainability across educational institutions in Saudi Arabia. With 3,300 schools retrofitted across the Kingdom, this outstanding achievement resulted in remarkable energy savings of 54,000,000 KWH per year, reducing 38,200 tonnes of CO₂ emissions. Through Greener by IHCC, you've championed sustainability in construction. How are your energy auditing, retrofitting, and LEED consultancy services changing the landscape of building practices in Saudi Arabia? Greener by IHCC is changing the game by making sustainability measurable, actionable, and profitable. Our team has audited over 1 million sqm of builtup area, saving up to 30% in energy costs through retrofitting. We have helped clients secure LEED and ESTIDAMA certifications and advised public As President and Founder of Lifestyle Developers, you've partnered with international brands like YOO and Philippe Starck. What makes these branded residences unique in the Saudi market? These residences introduce a new standard of living in the Kingdom. With YOO International Studios and Philippe Starck coming to the Kingdom for the first time, we have curated design-forward homes that merge luxury with lifestyle. Projects like THE VUE, featuring waterfront homes in Jeddah, offer not just high-end design and finishes, but a complete emotional experience through art, architecture, and amenities such as a cigar room, tea room, private cinema, kids' play areas, open green spaces, and infinity pools overlooking the stunning Ubhur. This is a growing niche in the Saudi market – demand is shifting towards experiential living, and we're leading that evolution. Your LinkedIn profile mentions you're 'a developer with a cause.' Could you elaborate on how this philosophy shapes your approach to real estate development? For me, everything I do has to be purpose-driven. I aspire to impact communities and raise the standards of living with every project we deliver. Every Lifestyle Developers project is about empowering communities and redefining quality of life. Profit is important, but purpose drives everything we do. We are also very focused on creating the next generation of leaders and creating the right talent and jobs in the market. Our recently launched Tamkeen programme aims to train Saudi youth across different fields of design, engineering, and construction. The recent signing with Autograph by Marriott marks the first Marriott Autograph in Jeddah. How do you see this enhancing Saudi Arabia's hospitality sector? We have brought the first Autograph by Marriott hotel in Jeddah through a Saudi-born concept called B-Hotel, which is curated for the modern Arabian traveller. The B Hotel concept, partnering with Autograph by Marriott, will bring a globally recognised boutique hospitality experience to Jeddah's North Obhur and will be available across key locations in the Kingdom and beyond. It's about delivering curated experiences for both tourists and residents. As Saudi Arabia positions itself as a luxury and lifestyle destination, properties like this will be pivotal in attracting international travellers and elevating the hospitality offerings in line with Vision 2030. You signed six PIF projects in 2024, including Four Seasons. How do these projects align with Saudi Vision 2030? These projects are a direct response to Vision 2030's mandate for infrastructure modernisation, healthcare access, and luxury tourism. Our portfolio includes global hotel brands and IHCC has a solid track record in delivering luxurious hotels in prime locations within the Kingdom and beyond in partnership with international operators such as Four Seasons, Edition, Miraval, InterContinental, and Marriott. We have also announced key wellness resorts in Taif and across the Kingdom to cater to the needs of the discerning local and international traveller. IHCC is enabling the Kingdom's transformation through execution excellence, local capacity building, and international best practices. Saudi Arabia is targeting 70 million annual tourists by 2030. How are your hospitality projects specifically structured to capitalise on this projected influx? Our hospitality portfolio is strategically positioned to meet the needs of this diverse tourism base. We are developing properties near premium sites, pilgrimage routes, Red Sea coastal zones, and urban entertainment hubs. Projects like B Hotel in partnership with the Autograph by Marriott, THE VUE, The Standard by Philippe Starck, and the upcoming wellness resorts in Taif in partnership with ASFAR (PIF) in the Kingdom combine cultural relevance with international standards – attracting both regional and global visitors seeking authentic, elevated experiences. Many Saudi companies are exploring international expansion. Are you considering taking IHCC beyond MENA into markets like Southeast Asia or Africa? Yes, we are actively exploring new frontiers. Our turnkey model is highly scalable and in demand in emerging markets. We are currently evaluating healthcare, education, and hospitality infrastructure opportunities in East Africa and Southeast Asia, particularly where governments are prioritising social development and PPP models. Our vision is to make IHCC a globally recognised Saudi export in specialised construction.
New Straits Times
20-05-2025
- Health
- New Straits Times
Malaysia among first three countries given approval to operate haj clinic in Madinah
MAKKAH: The Tabung Haji (TH) Treatment Centre in Madinah has obtained the permit approval (Tasrih) from the Saudi Arabian Ministry of Health to operate fully the health facility for the 1445H/2025M haj season. Head of the Malaysian Haj delegation Mohd Hisham Harun said Malaysia was among the first three countries to receive the approval for the Madinah sector, attributing this to the strategic collaboration between TH and Saudi German Hospital, being implemented for the first time this haj season. "This approval not only proves the level of compliance (of TH Treatmnent Centre ) with international regulations, but is also a form of recognition of the high standards of the Malaysian health service system in caring for the welfare and health of pilgrims in the Holy Land," he told a media conference here today. He said TH's health facilities went through a strict inspection process set by the Saudi Arabian health authorities and directly supervised by the Saudi German Hospital before being approved. Meanwhile, Mohd Hisham said that a total of 141 Malaysian pilgrims have received health treatment since their arrival in the Holy Land, either at the TH Treatment Centre or at local hospitals in Saudi Arabia. "Of the total, 129 pilgrims received treatment at TH health facilities, while 12 pilgrims were referred to the Saudi Arabian hospitals. "In Makkah alone, a total of 97 pilgrims received treatment, with 89 at the TH Treatment Centre and eight at local hospitals. "Meanwhile, in Madinah, 44 pilgrims sought treatment with 40 people at TH facilities and four others at Saudi Arabian hospitals," he said. He said the cases that were treated involved various health problems, including respiratory diseases such as coughs and colds, ear, nose and throat (ENT) problems, muscle and joint problems and skin diseases. Meanwhile, Mohd Hisham said so far, two Malaysian pilgrims were confirmed to have died in Makkah, both due to heart attacks. He said the first death involved Norizan Tambonan Nordin, 47, from Batu Pahat, Johor, who died at 7am last Friday, while the second was Abdullah Mat, 59, from Pasir Mas, Kelantan, who died at 5.10am yesterday, after collapsing while performing the circumambulation of the Grand Mosque. "Their bodies were buried at the Syariee Cemetery, Makkah. "TH will perform the badal haj for them," he said. – Bernama
The Sun
20-05-2025
- Health
- The Sun
Malaysia among first three countries given approval to operate haj clinic in Madinah
MAKKAH: The Tabung Haji (TH) Treatment Centre in Madinah has obtained the permit approval (Tasrih) from the Saudi Arabian Ministry of Health to operate fully the health facility for the 1445H/2025M haj season. Head of the Malaysian Haj Delegation Mohd Hisham Harun said Malaysia was among the first three countries to receive the approval for the Madinah sector, attributing this to the strategic collaboration between TH and Saudi German Hospital, being implemented for the first time this haj season. 'This approval not only proves the level of compliance (of TH Treatmnent Centre ) with international regulations, but is also a form of recognition of the high standards of the Malaysian health service system in caring for the welfare and health of pilgrims in the Holy Land,' he told a media conference here today. He said TH's health facilities went through a strict inspection process set by the Saudi Arabian health authorities and directly supervised by the Saudi German Hospital before being approved. Meanwhile, Mohd Hisham said that a total of 141 Malaysian pilgrims have received health treatment since their arrival in the Holy Land, either at the TH Treatment Centre or at local hospitals in Saudi Arabia. 'Of the total, 129 pilgrims received treatment at TH health facilities, while 12 pilgrims were referred to the Saudi Arabian hospitals. In Makkah alone, a total of 97 pilgrims received treatment, with 89 at the TH Treatment Centre and eight at local hospitals. 'Meanwhile, in Madinah, 44 pilgrims sought treatment with 40 people at TH facilities and four others at Saudi Arabian hospitals,' he said. He said the cases that were treated involved various health problems, including respiratory diseases such as coughs and colds, ear, nose and throat (ENT) problems, muscle and joint problems and skin diseases. Meanwhile, Mohd Hisham said so far, two Malaysian pilgrims were confirmed to have died in Makkah, both due to heart attacks. He said the first death involved Norizan Tambonan Nordin, 47, from Batu Pahat, Johor, who died at 7 am last Friday, while the second was Abdullah Mat, 59, from Pasir Mas, Kelantan, who died at 5.10 am yesterday, after collapsing while performing the circumambulation of the Grand Mosque. 'Their bodies were buried at the Syariee Cemetery, Makkah. TH will perform the badal haj for them,' he said.
