Alfaisal University hosted a high-level delegation from NEOM Health in a landmark meeting aimed at establishing a transformative partnership in healthcare education, workforce development, and system innovation. The meeting, held on the 8th of May, 2025 brought together leaders from both institutions to align visions for reshaping the future of health and wellness in Saudi Arabia.
The NEOM delegation included Dr. Khaled Hamawi (Executive Director – Health Planning and Provision), Dr. Zaki Algasemi (PHM Intervention Design Director), and Mr. Sultan Shokair (Strategic Partnerships Manager). Alfaisal University was represented by Dr. Baraa Alghalyini, Vice Dean of College of Medicine and Chair of the Department of Family and Community Medicine, alongside Prof. Helen Batty, Dr. Racha Khaled, and Ms. Saphiya Banafa.
The meeting began with NEOM presenting its ambitious healthcare vision, a model built around upstream prevention, personalized care, and health system transformation. This model emphasizes holistic approaches incorporating AI, genetics, environment, lifestyle, and social determinants of health. NEOM’s strategy includes redefining workforce roles by introducing integrated physicians, care navigators, and health coaches, while also incorporating simulation-based training and curriculum redesign for medical professionals and students.
Alfaisal University showcased its readiness to contribute to this vision through strong academic programs, cutting-edge research environment, and community engagement initiatives. Highlights included faculty-led innovations, national and international academic partnerships, and a proven ability to launch high-impact programs aligned with Vision 2030 priorities. Both institutions emphasized the importance of co-developing strategic educational models that serve the health needs of future populations.
The discussions outlined a robust roadmap for collaboration in proposed areas including joint curriculum design for undergraduate and postgraduate programs, faculty and student exchange with NEOM University, and development of an advanced Simulation Center in Riyadh anchored by IRCAD methodologies. Additional initiatives discussed included public health research, integration of digital health competencies, and multi-stakeholder training programs.
This collaboration marks a defining moment in Alfaisal University’s commitment to shaping the healthcare landscape of tomorrow. By aligning with NEOM’s transformative vision, the university reinforces its position as a regional leader in academic innovation and health system advancement.
