- The new center will offer advanced oncology services, including daycare chemotherapy sessions,
with a special focus on oral chemotherapy treatments, enhancing local access to world-class
cancer care. - The launch is in alignment with Aster’s Treat in Oman initiative which aims to make international
standards of care locally available.
Muscat, Oman – March 4, 2025: Aster Royal Al Raffah Hospital, Muscat, Oman, part of GCC’s leading
integrated healthcare provider Aster DM Healthcare, has announced the launch of the Aster Al Raffah
International Comprehensive Cancer Care Center, a significant milestone in advancing cancer care
services in Oman.
As an integral part of the ‘Treat in Oman’ initiative, the center aims to provide cutting-edge oncology
services, including daycare chemotherapy sessions, reducing the need for patients to travel abroad for
specialized treatment. Equipped with advanced diagnostic capabilities and a multidisciplinary team of
experts, the facility offers comprehensive cancer care tailored to meet the needs of patients within the
Sultanate.
The launch of this state-of-the-art center aligns with Oman’s vision to enhance its healthcare sector and
ensure specialized, accessible treatment for all citizens. The center will play a vital role in supporting the
country’s cancer care framework, improving patient outcomes, and easing the burden on international
healthcare travel.
The inauguration was led by His Excellency, Dr. Ahmed Bin Salim Al Mandhari, Undersecretary for
Planning and Health Regulation, Oman Ministry of Health, in the presence of Ms. Alisha Moopen,
Managing Director & Group CEO, Aster DM Healthcare, Dr. Sherbaz Bichu, CEO, Aster Hospitals and
Clinics, UAE, Oman & Bahrain, Mr. Shailesh Guntu, Chief Executive Officer, Aster Hospitals and Clinics,
Oman, and esteemed government officials from the Ministry of Health.
His Excellency, Dr. Ahmed Bin Salim Al Mandhari, Undersecretary for Planning and Health Regulation,
Oman Ministry of Health, expressed his appreciation for this milestone, stating, “The establishment of
the Aster Al Raffah International Comprehensive Cancer Care Center reinforces our vision to strengthen
the healthcare infrastructure in Oman. By ensuring access to specialized oncology services, including
daycare chemotherapy, we are making significant strides in enhancing the quality of care available to
our citizens. This initiative aligns with our commitment to fostering a healthier future for our people.”
Ms. Alisha Moopen, Managing Director & Group CEO, Aster DM Healthcare highlighted Aster’s vision
for accessible and advanced cancer care, saying, “Our goal has always been to bring world-class
healthcare closer to the communities we serve. With the launch of this comprehensive cancer care
center, we are reaffirming our commitment to providing specialized and compassionate cancer
treatment within Oman. The ‘Treat in Oman’ initiative is a crucial step in ensuring that patients receive
expert care without the need to travel abroad, allowing them to heal in the comfort of their home
country.”
Dr. Sherbaz Bichu, CEO, Aster Hospitals and Clinics, UAE, Oman & Bahrain, emphasized the impact of
the new center on the local healthcare ecosystem, stating, ‘This launch marks a new era in cancer care in Oman. By integrating cutting-edge technology and a patient-centric approach, we aim to provide holistic
oncology services, including daycare chemotherapy, that cater to the diverse needs of our patients. Our
multidisciplinary team will work collaboratively to ensure personalized treatment plans that enhance
recovery and improve outcomes. Treating cancer is not a single event but a complex, evolving journey
that spans diagnosis, treatment, recovery, and sometimes long-term management. It requires a
multidisciplinary approach, involving oncologists, nurses, therapists, mental health professionals, and a
strong support system. We have launched a community-based support group called ‘COSMOS’ – Circle
of Strength, Master of Self. This initiative addresses the psychological needs of our patients along their
journey. They are paired with a survivor who has successfully won the battle and is now a survivor.”
Reiterating Aster’s dedication to medical excellence, Mr. Shailesh Guntu, Chief Executive Officer, Aster
Hospitals and Clinics, Oman, remarked, “The Aster Al Raffah International Comprehensive Cancer Care
Center is a significant step in our mission to deliver world-class oncology treatment in Oman. Our focus
remains on providing comprehensive cancer care, including expert consultations, specialized laboratory
tests, advanced imaging, daycare chemotherapy, and access to a team of skilled oncologists. Through
this initiative, we strive to create a robust and accessible healthcare system that meets the needs of our
community.”
The center offers a comprehensive range of oncology services, with a special focus on daycare
chemotherapy sessions, oral chemotherapy treatments, expert consultations, specialized laboratory
tests, and advanced radiological imaging. The multidisciplinary team consists of specialists in general
surgery, breast surgery, colorectal surgery, neurosurgery, urological surgery, and gynecological surgery.
Additionally, the center provides blood transfusion services, further ensuring that patients receive all
the care they need under one roof.
To further raise awareness about the importance of timely cancer diagnosis and treatment, Aster
organized a community bike ride in the evening. The event was flagged off from Aster Royal Al Raffah
Hospital and covered key locations in the city before culminating at the hospital, where a closing event
was held. This initiative highlights Aster’s commitment to promoting cancer awareness and encouraging
early detection, ultimately contributing to better patient outcomes.
With the launch of the Aster Al Raffah International Comprehensive Cancer Care Center, Aster DM
Healthcare continues to set new benchmarks in oncology services, reaffirming its mission to provide
cutting-edge medical care within Oman. This initiative marks a significant leap forward in ensuring that
patients receive world-class cancer treatment close to home, reinforcing the Sultanate’s position as a
hub for advanced healthcare in the region.
About Aster DM Healthcare FZC in GCC
Founded in 1987 by Dr. Azad Moopen, Aster DM Healthcare is a leading integrated healthcare provider, with a strong presence across 5 countries in GCC and Jordan. Aster is committed to the vision of providing accessible and high-quality healthcare, from primary to quaternary services, with its promise of “We will treat you well”. The organisation’s robust integrated healthcare model includes 16 hospitals, 120 clinics, and 307 pharmacies in GCC serving all segments of society through three differentiated brands: Aster, Medcare and Access. Aster consistently adapts to meet the evolving needs of patients, ensuring access to quality healthcare through both physical and digital channels which is exemplified with the launch of the region’s first healthcare super app, myAster.