Burjeel Holdings has acquired an 80% stake in Dubai-based Advanced Care Oncology Center (ACOC) and plans to create a radiation oncology network in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC).
ACOC provides nuclear medicine, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy services.
The acquisition, valued at Dh92m ($25.04m) on a cash-free, debt-free basis, enhances synergy within Burjeel's ecosystem and streamlines the care pathway for specialised treatments. The company has an option to acquire the remaining stake in the future.
ACOC founder and CEO Bashir Abou Reslan will retain a 10% stake and will continue to lead operations. Existing share-holder Raphael Khlat Middle East FZCO holds the remaining 10% stake.
The initiative aims to enhance cancer care in the region by using the expertise of ACOC to establish a network offering advanced and accessible oncology treatments.
With a global rise in cancer cases due to ageing populations and lifestyle changes, the GCC is witnessing an increasing demand for specialised oncology services.
The GCC currently faces a shortage of cancer care infrastructure, presenting a significant opportunity for Burjeel to expand its oncology platform and ensure the availability of advanced and timely cancer treatments.
The acquisition aligns with the increasing adoption of advanced oncology solutions in the GCC, such as radiation therapy and precision medicine.
The ACOC-branded network will enhance oncology access in underserved markets, establishing standalone centres equipped with technologies, including LINAC systems and AI-driven radiation planning.
These centres will act as hubs for radiation therapy, offering dedicated services and establishing a referral platform for a wider healthcare providers’ network.
They will support the group's hub, Burjeel Cancer Institute (BCI), for enhanced cancer treatments, facilitating an integrated care pathway for patients requiring various oncology services.
Burjeel Holdings group CEO John Sunil said: “This network will not only support early intervention and treatment but will also connect seamlessly with the Burjeel Cancer Institute for advanced therapies.”
Burjeel’s network will benefit from the Oracle Health EMR implementation, driving medical research and data-driven innovations.