Burjeel invests US$25M in Advanced Oncology Network

UAE—Burjeel Holdings, a prominent healthcare provider in the Middle East and North Africa, has taken a significant step in cancer care by acquiring an 80% stake in Dubai’s Advanced Care Oncology Center (ACOC).

This acquisition, valued at AED 92 million (US$25.05 million), is part of Burjeel’s strategy to build the leading radiation oncology network across the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries.

ACOC, known for its expertise in radiation therapy, nuclear medicine, and chemotherapy, will be pivotal in this new network.

The center generated a revenue of AED 64 million (US$17.42 million) in 2024.

Bashir Abou Reslan, ACOC’s Founder and CEO, will continue to lead the center, retaining a 10% stake, with Raphael Khlat Middle East FZCO holding the other 10%.

This ensures continuity of leadership and expertise in delivering top-notch patient care.

The initiative aims to transform cancer treatment in the region by making advanced oncology services more accessible.

The planned network will focus on underserved areas in the GCC, establishing standalone centers equipped with the latest technology, including advanced linear accelerators (LINAC), AI-driven radiation planning, and precision imaging tools.

These centers will not only provide treatment but will also act as referral hubs for a wide network of healthcare providers.

This move aligns perfectly with Burjeel’s existing oncology services, notably through the Burjeel Cancer Institute (BCI), which is one of the largest cancer care networks in the UAE.

With facilities in Abu Dhabi, Al Ain, Al Dhafra, Sharjah, and Dubai, BCI offers a comprehensive range of treatments, from surgical oncology to bone marrow transplants.

Integrating ACOC into this system will streamline patient care and direct referrals to the most specialized services available.

Oracle Health’s Electronic Medical Record (EMR) system will enhance the network’s capability in medical research and innovation, aiming at preventive oncology and precision medicine.

Globally, the cancer burden is set to increase, with the World Health Organization predicting a rise from 20 million new cases in 2024 to over 30 million by 2040.

In the GCC, cancer cases are expected to surge by 50% in the next two decades due to an aging population and lifestyle changes.

This region currently faces a shortage of specialized cancer care facilities, which this new network seeks to address.

John Sunil, Group CEO of Burjeel Holdings, emphasized that the network will not only improve access to high-quality cancer care but also support early intervention, potentially leading to better outcomes across the region.

By leveraging ACOC’s established reputation for excellence, Burjeel aims to significantly enhance the landscape of cancer treatment in the GCC.

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