Dr. Kohli received his medical degree from the Armed Forces Medical College, India in 1999 and his MS in clinical investigation from Northwestern University in 2006. While at Northwestern he first spent three years as a pediatric gastroenterology and hepatology fellow and then subsequently as a transplant hepatology trainee before relocating to the University of Cincinnati in 2007.

His research work has focused on the pathogenesis of obesity related fatty liver disease (NAFLD). In particular, he has focused upon the role of bile acid signaling as a mechanism for NAFLD resolution after weight loss surgery. His work has also shed light on reactive oxygen stress in the generation and regulation of the extreme stage of this disease; nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH). He has published many peer-reviewed articles including articles in Nature, Nature Reviews, The Journal of Biological Chemistry, Hepatology, Journal of Pediatrics, and The American Journal of Physiology. He is the author of many book chapters and review articles. He also is the recipient of the 2007 George Ferry Young Investigator Award from the Children's Digestive Health and Nutrition Foundation, a Fellowship award from the American Association for the Study of Liver Diseases, Takeda Research Innovation Award from the North American Society for Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition Foundation.

Dr. Rajeev is Consultant Pediatrician and Pediatric Hepatologist with 22 years’ experience. He trained in The UK and India. He has completed specialist training in Pediatric gastroenterology and Hepatology from two of the premiere tertiary institutes of the world – Great Ormond Street Hospital for children, London and Kings College Hospital, London. The training led to him receiving CCT in Pediatrics. He has been a Fellow of the Royal college of Pediatrics and Child Health (RCPCH).

Dr. Basem is a British-trained Consultant Pediatric and Neonatal Surgeon with a subspecialisation in pediatric colorectal surgery. He is internationally acclaimed for his expertise in short gut syndrome and provides consultations to patients worldwide.

Before joining King’s, Dr Basem worked as a Pediatric Consultant Surgeon at the Royal Manchester Children’s Hospital, where he held the role of Head of the Department of Pediatric Surgery and Secretary of the Hospital’s Medical Staff Committee. In addition, he was the Regional Specialty Professional Adviser for Pediatric Surgery of the Royal College of Surgeons of England for the North-West of England. During his time in Manchester, Dr Basem was one of two surgeons who ran the internationally renowned service for short gut syndrome and was also an Honorary Senior Lecturer at the University of Manchester and the University of Salford. Eventually, Sidra Medicine recruited Dr Basem in Qatar, who was part of the Founding Faculty of Pediatric Surgery and the Director of Neonatal Surgery. Post this, he returned to the UK, assuming the position of Consultant Pediatric Surgeon at the prestigious Alder Hey Children’s Hospital in Liverpool.

Dr. Basem is also a public health expert and holds a master’s degree in Public Health from the University of Liverpool, a PhD in Public Health from the University of Gloucestershire, and a master’s degree in Finance from the University of London.

Dr. Ashraf S. Harahsheh is a pediatric cardiologist affiliated with Sibley Memorial Hospital, George Washington University Hospital, Washington Adventist Hospital, Holy Cross Hospital, Calvert Memorial Hospital and Frederick Memorial Hospital. He practices out of Children’s National Medical Center in Washington, D.C.

Dr. Harahsheh has expertise in arrhythmia, cardiology post-natal follow-up, heart murmurs, Kawasaki disease and syncope. He has clinical interest in atrial flutter and fibrillation in children with Wolff-Parkinson-White syndrome, the cardiac function in anthracycline-treated children and the use of B-type natriuretic peptide as a marker for worsening cardiac function.

Dr. Harahsheh has been named a Who’s Who in Science and Engineering, one of America’s Top Pediatricians by Consumer’s Research Council of America and a Top 10 Cardiologist by Vitals.

Osama Tabbara has joined the Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi (CCAD) in 2010; He is now the Executive Director of Pharmacy. Prior to joining CCAD, Osama served as Director of Pharmacy Services Administration at King Fahad Medical City for 4 years.

Osama also served at King Faisal Specialist Hospital & Research Center, Riyadh for 11 years as Clinical Pharmacist and Supervisor of the TPN Team and IV Room; he also served as Director of Pharmacies in Abu Dhabi Middle Region hospitals for 3 years. Osama Tabbara is a graduate of King Saud University in 1984, completed his EMBA in 2014 and is Board Certified in Nutrition Support in 1997. He was a guest speaker at more than 100 symposia & seminars in topics related to Clinical Nutrition, IV Therapy, IT, and Quality Management.

Osama had given more than 1000 presentations and has many publications in the field of TPN, Leadership and Quality Management.

Dr. Maria Theresa B Reyes is a Consultant Paediatrician and Neonatologist, who specialises in the care of babies across gestation from 23 weeks to term. She’s trained in some of the world’s most highly regarded medical establishments and has dedicated over 13 years to neonatal intensive care.

Dr. Reyes graduated from the College of Medicine (University of Manilla), ranking in the top six of the graduating class. After this, she undertook a three-year paediatric residency, followed by a three-year neonatal fellowship at the University of the Philippines. Then, in 2002, she completed her CCT in paediatrics in the UK.

Patient care is a top priority to Dr Reyes. She adopts a holistic approach and believes that every patient deserves the best treatment possible. Dr Reyes also recognises the importance of working in a multidisciplinary team, and the vital role that everyone plays in ensuring the care and safety of the patients. Compassion, competence, excellence and empathy are always her main focus.

• Consultant Obestatric and Gynecology/Urogynecologist.
• FACHARZT-German Board
• Educational Lead for Obs Gyn at Dubai Health.
• Assistant Professor in Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology-College of Medicine and Health Sciences,United Arab Emirates University.
• Chairperson, Scientific Committee Obstetrics and Gynecology for Emirati Board in National Institute for Health Specialties (NIHS)
• Chairperson of Cultural committee in Emirtes Medical association.

Dr. Nuha Alzaabi is a pediatric and biochemical genetic physician working at Fujairah Hospital, UAE. She is a member of the Arab Board and MRCPCH in 2015. Dr. Alzaabi completed her metabolic genetic fellowship at UAE University in collaboration with Tawam Hospital and McMaster University in Canada. Dr. Alzaabi received her MBBS from the College of Medicine and Health Sciences at UAE University.

Dr. Aisha Alkhaaldi earned her medical degree from the University of Sharjah (UOS), UAE, in 2011. She completed her internship at Al Qasimi Hospital and pursued her pediatric training through the Arab Board of Health Specializations, becoming a board-certified pediatrician in 2017.

Motivated by a strong interest in infectious diseases, Dr. Alkhaaldi gained several years of clinical experience before completing a formal clinical fellowship in Pediatric Infectious Diseases at the Royal College of Physicians of Ireland (RCPI) in 2021.

She currently serves as a Pediatric Infectious Diseases Consultant at Al Qassimi Women and Children Hospital in Sharjah. In recognition of her expertise, she was appointed Head of Infection Control at the hospital in January 2025, leading institutional efforts in infection prevention, antimicrobial stewardship, and healthcare quality improvement.

She is an active member of several professional societies, including the Emirates Infectious Diseases Society (EIDS), the European Society for Paediatric Infectious Diseases (ESPID), and the Infectious Diseases Society of America (IDSA).

Dr. Alkhaaldi’s clinical work is complemented by her commitment to medical research and antimicrobial stewardship, both of which reflect her dedication to advancing pediatric infectious disease care through evidence-based practice and innovation.

Dr. Eman Taryam AlShamsi is currently a Consultant and the Head of the Pediatric Hematology Oncology Department at Al Jalila Children’s Specialty Hospital. Clinical Assistant Professor of Oncology at Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences (MBRU).

She graduated in 2002 from the Faculty of Medicine & Health Sciences at the United Arab Emirates University.

After graduation, Dr. AlShamsi trained and practiced at Tawam Hospital, UAE, from 2005. She served as staff from January 2017 until June 2021 when she joined Al Qassimi Women and Children Hospital (AQWCH) as a Consultant in Hematology Oncology and Head of Department. In August 2023, she moved to Al Jalila Children's Specialty Hospital, taking on her current role.

Dr. AlShamsi holds the Arab Board Diploma of Medical Specialization in Pediatrics and a diploma from the Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health (RCPCH). She also obtained a Diploma in Clinical Research affiliated with the Vienna School of Clinical Research. She completed her clinical fellowship in Pediatric Hematology Oncology and Bone Marrow Transplant at SickKids Hospital in Toronto, Canada. This fellowship included training in Pediatric Clinical Hematology Oncology, Bone Marrow Transplant, and Thrombosis. Additionally, she attended an administrative fellowship program at MD Anderson Cancer Center in Texas, USA.

Throughout her career, Dr. AlShamsi has been involved in several ongoing collaborative research projects at Tawam and AQWCH hospitals, MBRU, UAEU, and Zayed University, with publications on PubMed. She has authored and reviewed chapters on bleeding disorders and pediatric cancers for upcoming medical textbooks.

Dr. AlShamsi hosted the SIOP Asia Conference in Abu Dhabi in April 2019. She actively participates in numerous national and international committees and activities, including the Scientific Sub-Committee of the International Medical Awards 2023-2024 (Sheikh Hamdan Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Award for Medical Science), the Transfusion Committee at AQWCH/AQH, and the NIHS Pediatric Hematology Oncology Accreditation (Head of the Sub-Committee). She is also involved in national bone marrow transplants, cancer screening, and prevention initiatives, as well as the SIOP and Women Leaders in Pediatric Oncology (WLPO). Her patient support and awareness activities include work with CCI and Friends of Cancer Patients UAE (FOCP). In recognition of her contributions, Dr. AlShamsi received the EOS Cancer Awareness Advocate of the Year 2024 Award from the Emirates Oncology Society.

Dr. Arti Nanda has 30 years of experience in Pediatric Dermatology. She is Secretary General of the International Society of Pediatric Dermatology (ISPD) since 2021 (https://www.ispedderm.com/). She is also an Executive Board Director, Chair of the Communication Committee & Chief Editor, Online Education of the ISPD since 2017.

She is a member of the EADV Task Force, Pediatric Dermatology & Autoimmune Blistering Disorders, a Member of the Editorial Board of the Pediatric Dermatology Journal, and a member of the Editorial Advisory Board of the IJDVL; IDOJ; IJPD journals. She has published more than 160 research papers in Peer Reviewed Journals.

She has been an invited Speaker/Chair or Co-chair in the International/National Conferences in Dermatology/Pediatric Dermatology since 2003.

In recognition of her achievements, she was honored to be the recipient of the 2022 ILDS (International League of Dermatology Societies) Certificate of Appreciation for her international Leadership in Pediatric Dermatology.

Dr. Fatma Aljassim is a Swedish/ European dual board-certified Consultant Pediatrician and Pediatric Pulmonologist with working experience in DHA for the last 20 years.

Her previous practice was based in Sweden, where she worked as a Pediatrician at Queen Silvia Children's Hospital, Gothenburg, Sweden, and as a Pediatric Pulmonologist at Astrid Lindgren Children's Hospital, Karolinska Institution, Stockholm, Sweden.

She has established and led the Department of Pediatric Pulmonology and Sleep Medicine, including Interventional Bronchoscopy, in Latifa Women and Children Hospital, and in Al Jalila Children Specialty Hospital, Dubai Health, UAE, covering all aspects of respiratory issues, including asthma and lung function testing, allergy, cystic fibrosis, PCD, interventional bronchoscopy, tracheostomy care, sleep, and long-term ventilation. Dr. Fatma obtained her medical degree qualification in 2003 and did her Pediatric specialty rotation at Queen Silvia Children's Hospital in Gothenburg, Sweden. She did her subspecialty training and research in Pediatric Pulmonology and Interventional Bronchoscopy in Astrid Lindgren Children's Hospital, Karolinska institution, Stockholm, Sweden. She received her masters degree in Health Care Management from the Royal College of Surgeons Ireland in 2020.

• Head of Pediatric Department at Mubarak Alkabeer Hospital - Kuwait
• Consultant Pediatric Respirologist- McGill University Canada
• Sleep and Long Term Ventilation Specialist- University of Toronto, Canada

Dr. Bassi is a Consultant Adult and Paediatric Neurosurgeon and Spinal Surgeon at Kings College Hospital, London, UK.

In 1992, Mr Bassi graduated with a medical degree from the University of Manchester UK, after which he embarked upon further education and extensive training. After becoming a Fellow of the Royal College of Surgeons, Mr Bassi continued his neurosurgery training in Nottingham before receiving a prestigious fellowship at the The Necker–Enfants Malades Hospital in Paris and the Montefiore Medical Centre in New York. He took up a role at the Radcliffe Infirmary in Oxford as a paediatric neurosurgical fellow before working as a Consultant Adult and Paediatric Neurosurgeon at King’s College Hospital London, Dubai in 2003 Evelina London Children’s Hospital London in 2003.

Mr. Sanjeev Bassi is a highly trained specialist in treating all kinds of problems relating to the brain and spine and operates a complete adult and paediatric practice for both cranial and spinal surgery. Mr Bassi offers treatment for a vast range of conditions, including sciatica, back and neck pain, hydrocephalus, brain haemorrhage, brain tumours, spinal tumours, cerebral palsy, neuroendoscopy and implantation of skeletal muscle relaxant pumps. He provides treatment for premature children and helps with antenatal diagnosis and counselling of parents of babies diagnosed with brain and spinal problems pre-birth.

Mr. Bassi is the most senior paediatric neurosurgeon based at King’s College Hospital in London, Dubai. His specialist areas of interest also include general neurosurgery for adults, paediatric diseases that progress into adulthood and degenerative spinal problems. He has performed over 5000 complex operation over his career.

Thanks to his extensive training and expertise in the applications of neuroendoscopy in neurosurgery, Mr Bassi lectures internationally on the complex topics of endoscopic treatment of craniopharingiomas, third ventriculostomy and endoscopic applications in pineal tumours.

Dr. Adnan A H M Alhadlaq is a distinguished Consultant Pediatric Cardiologist and Interventional Cardiologist. He completed his general pediatric training and specialized in pediatric cardiology at Dalhousie University in Canada, earning board certifications from the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada and the American Board of Pediatrics. Dr. Alhadlaq served as Head of the Department of Pediatric Cardiology and Cardiac PICU at the Chest Disease Hospital in Kuwait from 2018 to 2022. He is affiliated with the Faculty of Medicine, overseeing medical student training, and is a site coordinator for the Kuwait Pediatric Training Program. Dr. Alhadlaq is also the Vice Head of the Kuwait Children’s Hospital Charity Association and has participated in charity camps in Tanzania, Kyrgyzstan, and Zanzibar.

Dr. Om Jha is an Assistant Professor of Clinical Pediatrics at the Keck School of Medicine of USC in the Division of Neonatology at Children’s Hospital Los Angeles.

A fellow of the American Academy of Pediatrics, Dr. Jha is a member of the Kidney Focus Group of Children’s Hospital Neonatal Consortium.

Dr. Jha earned his medical degree from Medical College Kolkata, India and completed his pediatric residency from Patna Medical College in India and Southern Illinois University School of Medicine in Springfield, IL. He completed a fellowship in neonatal and perinatal medicine at the University of Southern California Neonatology program, Los Angeles in 2015.

Dr. Jha has interests in innovation and entrepreneurial. He holds a patent from United States Patent and Trademark Office on “Newborn Temperature and Heart Monitor Apparatus and Method.”

Dr Jha is the one of the lead clinicians for neonatology, collaborating closely with the nephrologists within the CHLA neonatal Renal Replacement Therapy (RRT) program, including the ability to provide neonatal dialysis 24/7.

Dr. Sufyan Alrahbi is a pediatric Emergency Medicine consultant at the Royal Hospital in Muscat, Oman. He completed his residency in Adult Emergency Medicine and a Pediatric Emergency Medicine Fellowship at McGill University. He is certified by both the American Board of Emergency Medicine (ABEM) and the Royal College of Physicians & Surgeons of Canada (FRCPC).In addition to his clinical roles, Dr. Alrahbi has a strong background in health informatics, having pursued a diploma in this field from McMaster University. Dr. Alrahbi area of interest includes medical education, simulation and innovative technology.

Head of the Pediatric Hematology Oncology Department and Director of the Pediatric Stem Cell Transplant (SCT) Program in Kuwait. Currently leading the Pediatric SCT Unit at NBK Children’s Specialized Hospital. Chair of the committee for Stem Cell and Tissue Principles and Technical and Administrative Standards, and head of the committee for Central Policies for Secondary and Tertiary Care. Member of the general pediatric council in Kuwait , Vice-President of the Sickle Cell Disease Higher Committee, President of the Kuwait pediatricians Association, and Treasurer of the Kuwait Thalassemia League. Active member of international organizations including EBMT, ISCT, ASTCT, ASHI, and ARSHI.

Graduated from the Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland (RCSI), with dual qualifications in pediatrics (Kuwaiti Board and MRCPCH). Completed a fellowship in Pediatric Hematology and SCT in the UK. Established the Pediatric SCT program in 2020 and initiated the treatment of CCP in Kuwait in 2020. Research interests include benign hematology, thrombosis, hemostasis, and stem cell transplantation.

Dr. Entesar Abdullah Alhammadi is the Chief of Patient Safety and Quality at Dubai Health and the President of the Emirates Pediatrics and Neonatal Society. A seasoned healthcare leader and Consultant Pediatric Nephrologist at Al Jalila Children’s Specialty Hospital, Dr. Alhammadi brings over two decades of expertise in clinical excellence, quality improvement, and patient safety.

With a robust academic foundation, including a Master of Science in Healthcare Management from the Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland and certifications from prestigious institutions such as the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada and the American Board of Pediatrics, she has significantly contributed to advancing pediatric healthcare. Dr. Alhammadi also serves as an Adjunct Assistant Professor at Mohammed Bin Rashid University and Dubai Medical College, shaping the future of medical education.

Her leadership roles, including Chair of Corporate Patient Safety & Quality and Director of Academic Affairs, underscore her dedication to fostering high-quality care and innovation. Dr. Alhammadi’s research contributions span key topics in pediatric nephrology and patient safety, with publications in international peer-reviewed journals.

A passionate advocate for advancing healthcare standards, Dr. Alhammadi is committed to promoting wellness, enhancing patient care, and driving research excellence in the UAE and beyond.

Education/Clinical Training

• Undergraduate: M.B.B.S., College of Medicine, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, 1988-1989
• Internship, King Khalid University Hospital, Riyadh, 1990
• Residency Training Program in Pediatrics, King Saud University, Riyadh, 1991-1995
• Clinical Fellowship in Pulmonology and Allergy, Department of Pediatrics, King Saud University, Riyadh, Jan 1995 – May 1998
• Fellowship in Pediatrics Respiratory Medicine and Pediatric Sleep, University of Toronto and the Hospital for Sick Children, July 1998 – June 2000

Qualifications

• Bachelor of Medicine & Surgery (M.B.B.S.), King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, 1988- 1989
• Canadian Evaluation ExaminationMarch 1996
• Certified Arab Board in PediatricsMarch 1996

Employment and Academic Experience

• 2012 - present- Professor of Pediatrics, Department of Pediatric, College of Medicine, King Saud University, Riyadh, KSA
• 2008-2012- Associate Professor of Pediatrics, Department of Pediatrics, College of Medicine, King Saud University, Riyadh, KSA
• 2003-2008-- Assistant Professor of Pediatrics, Department of Pediatrics, College of Medicine, King Saud University, Riyadh, KSA
• 2001-present-- Consultant Pediatrician and Pediatric Pulmonologist, Department of Pediatrics, King Khalid University Hospital, King Saud University, Riyadh, KSA
• 1998-2000—Fellow in Pediatric Respiratory Medicine, University of Toronto, Canada
• 1995-1998-- Clinical Fellow, Pulmonology and Allergy Unit, Department of Pediatrics, King Khalid University Hospital, Riyadh, KSA.
• 1991-1995 -- Resident in Residency Training Program in Pediatrics, Department of Pediatrics, College of Medicine, King Khalid University Hospital, King Saud University, Riyadh, KSA
• 1990 – Rotating Intern, King Saud University affiliated hospitals in Riyadh, KSA

Dr. Ahmed Al Hammadi is the executive chair of pediatrics at sidra medicine , He is also division chief of general pediatric and Associate Program Director of Paediatric Residency Program, and Assistant Professor of Paediatrics at Weill-Cornell Medical College, Qatar (WCM-Q). He completed his Paediatrics Residency Training at British Colombia Children Hospital (BCCH) in Vancouver, Canada, and a General Academic Paediatrics fellowship at the Hospital for Sick Children-Toronto, Canada. Dr. Al Hammadi is the Director of the multidisciplinary program in Qatar, caring for children with technology-dependent and medically complex conditions (Paediatrics Complex Care Program) which offer coordinated care that spans the inpatient and outpatient divide. He was appointed to the examination board of the Paediatrics Arab Board in 2011 and a member of American Academy of Paediatrics and Canadian Paediatrics Society. Dr. Al Hammadi has published over 25 articles in peer reviewed journals and his research interests are related to vaccine, UTI in children’s, medical education and health promotion in Paediatrics.

• Dr. Eman Elmattar is a paediatric consultant at the department of hematology and oncology at NBK Children's Hospital in Kuwait.
• She received her Bachelor Of Medicine and Surgery from Kuwait University,she received her Diploma in child health,Dublin[DCH]
• Dr. Eman joined the department of hematology and oncology at NBK HOSPITAL in 2000. Over 34 years of practice she developed experience in general pediatric and pediatric hematology and leukemia and shared experience through scientific literature and teaching young pediatricians.
• Head of accreditation committee of ministry of health Sabah hospital from 2005-2016
• Head of child abuse and child protection committee Sabah hospital from 2005-2017
• Member of mortality and morbidity committee from 2000-2017
• Member of performance measurement committee of NBK HOSPITAL
• Dr. Eman running benign and malignant blood disorder
• Also covering leukemia clinic and platelets disorder clinic in NBK hospital
• Also running leukemia off therapy clinic

Dr. Maha Jassim Bourusly is a pediatric consultant at the department of hematology and oncology at the NBK Children’s Hospital in Kuwait. Dr Maha received her Bachelor of Medicine and Surgery from Kuwait University, 1990, She received her Diploma in child health, Dublin (DCH) 1994. And Kuwait Board in Pediatrics (PGTP) 2002. And MRCPCH (UK) 2003. Dr Maha Joined the department of hematology and oncology at the NBK Children’s Hospital in Kuwait in 2003. Over her 32 years of practice, Dr. Maha has developed experience in general Pediatrics and pediatric hematology and leukemia, and shared these experiences through scientific literature and mentoring young pediatricians . She headed the Thalassemia league up until recently, and currently VP Pediatric league, Kuwait Medical Association. She is also board member and Co- founder of I want to learn society, an initiative to teach children at hospital with chronic debilitating illnesses.

• Consultant in pediatric hematology oncology department NBK Children’s hospital Sabah specialized health area .DCH - Kuwait /Dublin & MRCP CH.
• Head of the department from 2014-2022
• A-member of pediatric and thalassemia league under kuwait medical association and also a board member in I want to learn society . Has many publications in the field of pediatric hematology oncology.

• Head of Pediatric Neurology Unit
• A member of Kuwait league against Epilepsy, Kuwait Association of Pediatric
• Permanent delegate of Asian Ocean Child Neurology Association.
• Member of International Child Neurology Association

• Pediatric Neurologist with special interest in epilepsy and EEG
• Head of pediatric neurology unit, Adan Hospital.
• Graduated from Arabian Gulf University Bahrain in 2006
• Kuwait Pediatric Board training program KIMS 2012.
• Pediatric Neurology fellowship and Complex epilepsy and EEG fellowship at Great Ormond Street Hospital NHS Trust in London UK 2020-2023

Dr. Mariam Ayed is a Neonatal- Perinatal and Neonatal Neuro-Critical consultant at Maternity Hospital, Kuwait. She is the president of Kuwait Neonatal Association.

Dr. Ayed graduated with honors in 2004 from Kuwait University Faculty of medicine. Dr. Ayed is a Canadian and American board certified in pediatrics and in neonatal- perinatal medicine.

She completed a fellowship training in neonatal neurology and neuro-critical care at the University of Toronto in 2016. She obtained her post-doctoral master degree in clinical research from Harvard Medical school.

Certificates:

• MBBS: Cairo University, Egypt 1/1981
• DCH: Dublin 1984
• MRCPCH: London UK 2/1992
• RCPCH: 2010

Present Post:

• CMO. Sabah hospital Kuwait since 2/2002
• The head of pediatric department Sabah hospital Kuwait since January 2012
• Consultant General Pediatrician

Dr. Mariam Salem is a highly dedicated pediatrics resident with a strong commitment to child health, well-being, and healthcare quality improvement in Kuwait. She earned her medical degree from Trinity College Dublin, Ireland.

Her clinical experience began with an internship, followed by a role as an Assistant Registrar in General Pediatrics at Jaber Al Ahmad Al Sabah Hospital. In addition to her clinical work, she is actively involved in humanitarian and volunteer efforts. She has participated in international medical missions in Zanzibar and Kenya.

Locally, she volunteers with the Kuwait Association for the Care of Children in Hospital (KACCH) and Bayt Abdullah Children’s Hospice (BACCH). Committed to advancing pediatric medicine, she is also actively involved in clinical research with the aim of enhancing evidence-based clinical practice.

Dr. Abrar AlAbdulhadi is a graduate of Temple University School of Medicine in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. She completed her general pediatrics residency at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia. She works as a general pediatrician at Amiri Hospital. Her interests include infectious disease, harm prevention and medical education and she hopes you enjoy all the conference has to offer!

Keith Hazleton, MD, PhD, is an Attending Physician of Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition and Assistant Professor of Clinical Pediatrics, Keck School of Medicine of USC. He received is MD and his PhD from the Albert Einstein College of Medicine and completed his pediatrics specialty training at the Children's Hospital Colorado/University of Colorado. He has joined the liver and intestinal transplant team at CHLA and is researcher at the Saban Research Institute.

His research has focused on how what we eat can affect the intestinal infection caused by C. difficile as part of Dr. Catherine Lozupone's lab at University of Colorado. His work has shown that dietary fat and fiber can affect the severity of infection and led to a clinical trial using a low-fat, high-fiber diet to prevent C. difficile infection. His work is currently funded by the National Institutes of Health and previously received funding from the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation.

Camilo Gutiérrez, MD, FACEP, FAAE, is an internationally recognized pediatric emergency physician, with a broad range of experience as a clinician, educator and expert in international pediatric emergency care. Dr. Gutiérrez was recently recruited as Associate Professor of Pediatrics and Emergency Medicine at the George Washington University School of Medicine and Health Sciences. He also leads the global health initiatives of the Emergency Medicine Division at Children’s National Hospital. He continues his clinical work as faculty in the pediatric Emergency Department.

Dr. Gutiérrez is a key opinion leader at the advisory level in the development of acute care systems at the local, country and regional level in multiple areas around the world. His emphasis is on development and strengthening of pediatric emergency care systems and training programs. He is a recognized speaker both locally and in a couple dozen countries where he has presented over 100 lectures in the last eight years and has authored over 30 publications.

During his 10 years tenure in Boston, Dr. Gutiérrez was faculty at Boston University School of Medicine - Boston Medical Center in the Pediatric Emergency Division, education director for the clinical rotation of the Harvard and BU Boston Combined Residency Program in pediatrics, liaison to the Trauma and Boston EMS programs and Pediatric Incident Commander. He was recognized by the Department of Public Health Commissioner for his tenure as chair and medical director of the Emergency Medicine for Children’s Advisory Committee for Massachusetts. He was also recognized by the Massachusetts Chapter of ACEP for his efforts to augment the care for children at the state level as co-chair of the MACEP Pediatric EM Section.

Younis Al Balushi currently working as a Vice President, Consultant at the Ministry of Health Oman. He had completed his education at Sultan Qaboos University. He is Specialized in Sleep Medicine and Pediatric Pulmonary.

Consultant, General Pediatrics and Complex Care. Joint Appointment Assistant Professor, Pediatrics.

Dr. Abdusamea Shabani is a highly accomplished Pediatric Radiologist with over 30 years of experience, recognized for his expertise in clinical excellence and healthcare leadership. He has played a pivotal role in advancing radiology services in the UK and Qatar, notably pioneering Non-Contrast MRA for children in Europe for the first time. As Division Chief of Body Imaging and Acting Chair of Radiology at Sidra Medicine, Dr. Shabani introduced several groundbreaking initiatives, including holding international pediatric radiology conferences in Qatar promoting the State at international level, launching the first 3D printing for a child with congenital heart disease, reduced waiting lists, and integrating Artificial Intelligence into radiology. His leadership has expanded pediatric radiology services across institutions like Hamad General and Al Wakra hospitals.

In addition to his clinical work, Dr. Shabani holds an academic position at Weill Cornell Medical College and has made significant contributions to pediatric radiology research. His work focuses on advancing imaging techniques and improving patient outcomes, with research interests spanning non-invasive MRI, upper airway obstruction, and bronchiectasis in pediatric patients. Dr. Shabani has authored numerous peer-reviewed publications and presented at international conferences, solidifying his reputation as a leader in the field. His presence in Qatar has been instrumental in shaping the future of pediatric medical imaging, and he remains the most senior pediatric radiologist in the country.

Dr. Mariam Said, MD is a Doctor primarily located in Washington, DC. She has 13 years of experience. Her specialties include Neonatal-Perinatal Medicine and Pediatrics. Dr. Said is affiliated with Children's National Medical Center.

Dr.Jumana Hasan is a Graduate of Arabian Gulf University - Kingdom of Bahrain 2023 , and Currently serving as a General Pediatric Assistant Registrar at Jaber AlAhmed Hospital.

She is Intrested more in Developing experience in research , child health and being a Future Endocrinologist with Being an Excellant Leader in her Field.

She is a Pediatric Infectious Diseases Consultant at Tawam Hospital, a tertiary healthcare facility and teaching hospital in Abu Dhabi, UAE.

She is also an adjunct assistant professor in the Department of Pediatrics, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, at the United Arab Emirates University.

She completed her fellowship training in South Africa and obtained the Pediatric Infectious Diseases Fellowship Certificate (Cert ID (SA) Paed) from the College of Medicine of South Africa in June 2022.

As a member of several local and international infectious disease societies, She is actively involved in academic teaching and medical education.

Dr. Husam Kayyali is the Chief of Pediatric Neurology Division at Sidra Medicine. He also serves as the Director of the Comprehensive Epilepsy Program at Sidra Medicine. Dr. Kayyali graduated from Aleppo University. He finished his Pediatric Neurology training at Children’s Mercy Hospital in Missouri, and his Fellowship in Epilepsy and Clinical Neurophysiology at Cleveland Clinic in Ohio.

Dr. Kayyali is Board Certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology in Pediatric Neurology, Clinical Neurophysiology and Epilepsy. Before joining Sidra Medicine, Dr. Kayyali was an Assistant Professor of Pediatric Neurology at the University of Missouri-Kansas City. Then he moved to King Faisal Specialist Hospital in Saudi Arabia where he served as the Head of Pediatric Neurology Section, and the Director of Pediatric Neurology Fellowship Program.

Dr. Aya Abu-El-Haija is an Attending Physician in the Division of Genetics and Genomics at Boston Children’s Hospital. She completed her Medical Genetics fellowship from the University of California San Francisco. She did her Pediatrics residency at University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey (Rutgers). Dr. Haija has a great interest and expertise in the various genetic syndromes, chromosomal deletions or duplications, single gene disorders, developmental delays, congenital birth defect, learning disability, overgrowth syndromes, and has particular interest in the various tumor predisposition syndromes. Dr. Haija is enthusiastic to see patients from various race/ethnic backgrounds, is bilingual in Arabic and English, and has some Spanish and French knowledge.

Prof Odena has been a paediatric intensive care physician at the SJD Barcelona Children’s Hospital since 1998. He finished his residency in Paediatrics in 1994, advancing his knowledge in Paediatric Intensive Care until 1997. His areas of special interest currently include research on mechanical ventilation and the international promotion of the use of non-invasive ventilation in both acute and chronic patients.

Dr. Ayman Saleh joined Sidra Medicine in 2017, as Deputy Division Chief in the Division of Pediatric Hematology-Oncology & Bone Marrow Transplant. He was appointed Chief of the Division in March 2020. He currently serves as the Chairman of the IRB and multiple other committees at Sidra Medicine.

During his career, he has held multiple leadership positions including Division Chief of Pediatric Hematology Oncology (1998-2011) and Medical Director and Chairman of the Department of pediatrics (2005-2007). He also chaired committees like cancer care committee, institutional review board (IRB), credentialing committee, pediatric academic review committee, pediatric executive committee, standing committee of the board, and professional affairs committee. He was elected as a president of the medical staff and medical executive committee (2003-207).

He conducted research projects and served as a principal investigator and a full member of the international Children’s Oncology Group (COG) since its inception in 2000. He also conducted clinical trials and received multiple grants in childhood cancer, hemophilia, hemoglobinopathies and supportive care.

He served as the Head of Pediatrics Department at the College of Medicine, Head of Pediatrics Department at Mubarak Hospital, Chair of Pediatrics Departments Council, and Dean of the Faculty of Pediatrics at Kuwait Institute for Medical Specialization (KIMS), as well as Dean of Student Affairs at Kuwait University. He is a Consultant in Pediatrics & a faculty member at the College of Medicine, Kuwait University. Since 2020, he has been a member of the Vaccines Committee at the Ministry of Health.

Dr. Yousef Abdul-Wahab is a board-certified pediatrician with certification from both the American Board of Pediatrics and the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada (FRCPC). He completed his pediatric residency at The Hospital for Sick Children (SickKids), University of Toronto, one of the world’s leading pediatric institutions.

Currently serving as a Senior Pediatric Registrar at Jaber Hospital in Kuwait, Dr. Abdul-Wahab is actively involved in medical education as Head of the Scientific Committee and a mentor for pediatric residents through KIMS and the Kuwait Pediatric Educational Committee. His interests include medical simulation, pediatric code response training, and mentoring future physicians.

He has contributed to peer-reviewed research through his work at the University of Michigan and remains passionate about continuous learning, curriculum development, and pediatric advocacy.

• Senior Registrar in New Aljahra Hospital
• Saudi Board in Pediatric Medicine.

Jonathan Murnick, MD, PhD, is an attending neuroradiologist in the department of Diagnostic Imaging and Radiology at Children's National Hospital. Dr. Murnick has a special interest in brain development in the term and preterm neonate, as well as in diagnosis and prevention of pediatric stroke.

Dr. Murnick received his medical degree from Harvard University and his doctoral degree from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. He completed residency in diagnostic radiology and fellowship in neuroradiology at Massachusetts General Hospital. Following his fellowship, he joined the faculty at Children's National and The George Washington University School of Medicine & Health Sciences. Dr. Murnick is board-certified in diagnostic radiology and neuroradiology and specializes in imaging of children with neurologic disorders.

She is a consultant in pediatric hematology/oncology with over a decade of clinical experience working at the National Oncology Center, Royal Hospital, Oman.

Her expertise spans diagnosing and managing pediatric malignancies and hematologic conditions with specialized expertise in adolescent oncology and sarcoma management. She founded the adolescent oncology service in 2020, bridging pediatric and adult care to support patients aged 12 to 18, particularly those with sarcomas and relapsed or refractory solid tumors. Her experience includes selecting and updating treatment protocols and collaborating with multidisciplinary teams for complex case management.

She is a committed advocate for medical education, patient safety, and quality improvement. Serving as a faculty member and Chair of the Pediatric Hematology/Oncology Fellowship Examination Committee, She play a central role in shaping postgraduate medical training and assessment. She also serve as a senior examiner with the Oman Medical Specialty Board (OMSB), having completed advanced-level examiner training.

Coming Soon!!

Dr. Khoula Al-Said is a leading pediatric gastroenterologist and senior consultant at the Royal Hospital in Oman, where she currently serves as the Director of the Child Health Department. With over two decades of clinical, academic, and administrative experience, Dr. Al-Said is recognized for her contributions to pediatric healthcare, particularly in gastroenterology, nutrition, and child protection.

She completed her pediatric training and gastroenterology fellowship in Canada and holds fellowships from the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada and the American Academy of Pediatrics. Dr. Al-Said is also the President of the Oman Pediatric Society and has led several national initiatives, including awareness campaigns, policy committees, and medical education reforms.

Her academic work includes numerous peer-reviewed publications, conference presentations, and leadership in pediatric residency training programs. She is widely respected for her dedication to improving child health services across Oman and the wider region.

Dr. Noor Aldeyouli is a graduate of the Arabian Gulf University in Bahrain. She currently works as an Assistant Registrar in the Pediatric Department at Jaber Al-Ahmad Hospital. Dedicated and passionate about her work, she aims to pursue further specialization in general pediatrics to advance her career and provide the highest quality of care to her patients.

Dr. Fares Alhammad is a graduate of Arabian Gulf University in the Kingdom of Bahrain. He is currently serving as a Pediatric Assistant Registrar at Jaber Al-Ahmad Hospital. With a strong dedication to child health and development, He has a special interest in clinical research and is actively involved in academic and scientific pursuits. He aspires to specialize in pediatric gastroenterology in the future.

Dr. Alsaleh completed his Undergraduate Medical Degree at The Royal College of Surgeons or Ireland (RCSI). He then completed his General Surgery Residency Training in Kuwait at the Kuwait Institute of Medical Specialisation (KIMS). Later he traveled to Canada and completed a fellowship in Pediatric General and Thoracic Surgery along with a master's degree in health science education at McMaster University.

He currently works in The Department of Pediatric Surgery at Ibn Sina Hospital for Specialised Surgeries in Kuwait.

Dr. Saja Farouq Alhajji is a graduate of the University of Jordan in Amman, Jordan, class of 2022. She currently serves as an Assistant Registrar in the Pediatric Department at Jaber Al-Ahmad Hospital in Kuwait.

Her interests include pediatric health and well-being, with a particular focus on neonatology. She is passionate about integrating modern technologies—such as artificial intelligence—into pediatric practice.

She is committed to continuous learning and contributing to the advancement of pediatric care.

• College of Medicine King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia

• She earned her bachelors of medicine and surgery degree from the Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland.
• Returning to Kuwait, she completed her pediatric residency through the Kuwait Board of Pediatrics.
• Dr. Anwar therafter pursued specialized training in Pediatric Rheumatology speciality in Ireland, followed by a subspecialty fellowship in Pediatric Myositis at The Hospital for Sick children in Toronto , Canada
• Dr. Alkandari has recently returned to Kuwait's medical practice, committed to advance pediatric rheumatology care and raise awareness of rheumatic diseases in children across the country.