Saudi Arabia Wins Top Arab Awards for Medical Excellence and Nursing Innovation
Saudi Arabia has cemented its status as a leader in regional healthcare excellence. The Kingdom won several prestigious awards during the 63rd session of the Council of Arab Health Ministers in Tripoli, Libya, highlighting the strength and innovation of its national health workforce.
The Saudi Ministry of Health stated that these achievements reflect the rapid development of the health sector and the high caliber of its professionals. These successes directly support the goals of the Health Sector Transformation Program under Saudi Vision 2030, aimed at building a sustainable, advanced healthcare system.
Top Honors for Pioneering Doctors
Two Saudi physicians received the distinguished Arab Doctors Award 2025. Dr. Ahmed bin Salem Bahammam, Director of the Prince Naif Center for Health Research, was awarded for excellence in scientific research and innovation.
Dr. Zuhair bin Yousef Al-Hlais, a senior cardiac surgery consultant at King Faisal Specialist Hospital, was honored for excellence, leadership, and professional medical impact, recognizing his influential career and contributions to the field.
Nursing Teams Recognized for Groundbreaking Models
Saudi nursing professionals also earned top honors, showcasing practical innovation developed from real-world challenges.
A Saudi team won first place in the clinical practice category of the “Outstanding Work in Nursing and Midwifery” award. Their winning project, the INS Model, was developed during the COVID-19 pandemic. It focuses on strengthening ICU surge capacity during disasters by enhancing nursing workforce readiness and rapidly scaling intensive care capabilities.
Furthermore, Dr. Badriah Awad Al-Shehri, Chief Nursing Executive at King Saud Medical City, jointly won the “Outstanding Work” award with Egypt for the Nethathon Project. This initiative aims to advance nursing education, enhance workforce competencies, and improve health education outcomes across the region.
A Testament to Strategic Vision and Investment
These awards underscore Saudi Arabia’s growing leadership in medical innovation and professional excellence within the Arab world. They validate the Kingdom’s strategic investments in healthcare research, specialized training, and workforce development, positioning it as a key contributor to the future of regional and global health.
