It is my great pleasure to welcome esteemed colleagues, guests, and all attendees to the 17th Gulf Heart Association (GHA) Conference in Doha. On behalf of the GHA local chapter and the organizing committee, I extend my warmest greetings to you all.
The conference program in your hands covers a wide range of cardiology topics, and I hope you find it both insightful and engaging.
The 17th Annual Gulf Heart Association Conference will start with workshops in the first day and during the last two days the program will cover numerous topics of advanced and general cardiology. The presence and participation of Regional and International leaders in the field will make the conference very exciting and informative.
Qatar has recently gained worldwide recognition for hosting major international sporting events, most notably the FIFA World Cup 2022, which was held as one of the best in history. If you have not visited Doha in recent years, you will be amazed by its remarkable progress and modernization. We take great pride in the fact that Doha is one of the safest cities in the world, offering security and comfort to citizens, expatriates, and tourists alike.
Dr. Hajar Ahmed Albinali, MD, FACC, FGHA Conference Chairman
Reflecting on our journey in cardiology, we started from scratch in 1978, establishing Qatar’s first cardiology service. Within just one year, we successfully built a modern Cardiac Care Unit (CCU), Catheterization Laboratory, outpatient clinic, and non-invasive cardiology laboratory.
In 1990, I had the honor of chairing the first international cardiology conference in Doha with a small but dedicated team from Hamad General Hospital. The conference was well attended by renowned cardiologists from the Arab region, Europe, and the United States.
In 1999, during the GCC (Gulf Cooperation Council) Health Ministers’ meeting in Muscat, Oman, I had the privilege, as Qatar’s Minister of Health, to propose the establishment of an independent (non-governmental) cardiac society for the GCC countries. My fellow ministers enthusiastically agreed, and we formed a committee comprising two cardiologists from each country. This committee, under my chairmanship, met regularly in Doha to bring this vision to life.
In 2002, while planning our second international cardiology conference in Doha on 15-17 January 2002. We decided, in collaboration with the GCC cardiac society committee, to expand the event into a Gulf-wide cardiology conference.. The GCC Health Ministers endorsed this initiative and pledged their support. On January 16, 2002, during that conference, I convened a meeting of Gulf cardiologists, where we officially signed the decision to establish the Gulf Heart Society, later formally named the Gulf Heart Association (GHA). That conference was retrospectively recognized as the First GHA Conference.
Now, 35 years after the first international cardiology conference in 1990, I am honored to chair the 17th GHA Conference, meticulously prepared by the dedicated large staff of Qatar’s Heart Hospital.
I wish you a pleasant and enriching stay in Qatar.
Dr. Hajar Ahmed Albinali, MD, FACC, FGHA Conference Chairman
About the Gulf Heart Association
The Gulf Heart Association (GHA) is the leading, non-profit,
professional organization dedicated to promoting advanced cardiology
care in the region. With the participation of local and international
organizations and institutions, GHA is active in organizing scientific
cardiology and cardiovascular surgery meetings, workshops, and
conferences designed to educate and share scientific information.
The GHA was established in January 2002 and its formation was
a landmark accomplishment for the members of the GCC States.
The organization’s annual conference has established bridges of
cooperation among cardiologists, cardiovascular surgeons, and other
cardiovascular specialties in the region and internationally. In addition
to conducting scientific conferences and symposia, the main aims
of the GHA include creating professional, educational, and social
ties among its membership, creating links with international medical
institutions and professional societies, and recommending policies and
laws to prevent cardiac disease and advance the care of cardiology
patients.
About Hamad Medical Corporation (HMC)
Hamad Medical Corporation (HMC) is the main provider of secondary and tertiary
healthcare in Qatar and one of the leading hospital providers in the
Middle East.
For more than three decades, HMC has been dedicated to delivering
the safest, most effective and compassionate care to all its patients.
HMC manages twelve hospitals – nine specialist hospitals and three
community hospitals – as well as the National Ambulance Service and
home and residential care services.
In January 2016, HMC achieved the significant distinction of
becoming the first healthcare system across the globe to have all
its hospitals accredited by Joint Commission International under the
Academic Medical Center accreditation program. Additionally, the
National Ambulance Service, Home Healthcare Service, Stroke Service
and Palliative Care, have all received this prestigious accreditation
since 2011.
To meet the needs of a rapidly growing population, HMC has announced
ambitious plans to expand capacity across its network through to
2030. HMC is leading the development of the region’s first academic health system – combining
innovative research, top-class education and excellent clinical care – and is committed to building a
legacy of healthcare expertise in Qatar. HMC collaborates with key partners who are experts in Qatar
and beyond, including Weill Cornell Medical College-Qatar, the Institute for Healthcare Improvement
and Partners Healthcare, Boston.
HMC is also the first hospital system in the Middle East to achieve institutional accreditation from the
Accreditation Council of Graduate Medical Education – International (ACGME-I), which demonstrates
excellence in the way medical graduates are trained through residency, internship and fellowship
programs.
Conference Details
More than 30 international eminent experts with distinguished local faculty from the various Gulf
and Middle East countries will present the most recent, cutting-edge information on different topics
regarding cardiovascular medicine during the 17th Gulf Heart Association Conference.
Event Schedule
November 20, 2025 (Thursday)
Time
Activity
Location
08:00 - 09:00
Registration Networking & Coffee Break
Itqan - Clinical Simulation and Innovation Centre HMC
09:00 - 16:00
Workshops
Itqan - Clinical Simulation and Innovation Centre HMC
Explore the cutting-edge advancements in cardiac care with our engaging key lectures. Below, you'll find the program outline and agenda timings for this inspiring event. We look forward to your participation!
The program development, speaker selection, and allocation will be updated constantly and completed by August.
Conference Schedule Day 1 (November 20, 2025)
Time
Activity
Location
Speaker/s
09:00 - 10:00
Registration Networking & Coffee Break
Itqan HMC - Foyer
10:00 - 12:00
POCUS/ECHO Workshop (Physicians)
Itqan HMC - Classrooms 1, 2
10:00 - 12:00
ECMO Cannulation and Care Workshop (Nurses and Technicians)
Itqan HMC - Classroom 3, 4
12:00 - 13:00
Lunch
Itqan HMC - Cafeteria
14:00 - 16:00
Hemodynamic Session (for all)
Itqan HMC - Auditorium
19:00 - 20:00
Sponsor Reception TBC
Sheraton
Conference Schedule Day 2 Main Stage (November 21, 2025)
Joint under a shared mission and merging years of expertise across various fields, our committee is comprised of experts from around the world who have come together to form the 17th Gulf Heart Association Conference.
Organizing Committee:
H.E. Dr. Hajar Ahmed Hajar Albinali
Dr. Jassim Al Suwaidi
Dr. Nidal Assad
Dr. Abdulwhahid Al Mulla
Dr. Sh. Hassan Al Thani
Dr. Abdulrehman Al Arabi
Dr. Awad Al Qahtani
Scientific Committee:
Dr. Abdulrehman Al Arabi – Chairperson
Dr. Charbel Abi Khalil – Vice Chair
Dr. Khadim Suliman
Dr. Salah Arafa
Dr. Sajad Hayatt
Dr. Mohammed Al Hashemi
Dr. Rima Kamal
Dr. Hisham Al Salous
Dr. Awad Al Qahtani
Dr. Amr Badr
Dr. Mohammed Al Hijji
Dr. Amr Fares
Dr. Ali Kindawi
Dr. Mohammed Lateef Wani
Website/CPD Committee:
Dr. Fahmi Othman
Dr. Mawahib Elhassan
Dr. Rasha Kaddoura
Dr. Fadi Khazaal
Dr. Mohammed Al Ibrahim
Dr. Cheikh Ahmed
Dr. Muhammed Jameesh
Dr. Rajai Bulbul
Board Members Of The Gulf Heart Association
Qatar
Dr. Abdulwahid Al Mulla
Dr. Hajar Albinali
Dr. Jassim Al Suwaidi
United Arab Emirates
Dr. Arif Al Nooryani
Dr. Abdulla Shehab
Dr. Wael Almahmeed
Bahrain
Dr. Abdul Hai Awadi
Dr. Fuad Abdulqader Saeed
Dr. Habib Tareif
Oman
Dr. Kadhim J Sulaiman
Dr. Hatim Al Lawati
Dr. Salim Al Maskari
Kuwait
Dr. Mohamed Aljarallah
Dr. Mohammad Zubaid
Dr. Mousa Akbar
Yemen
Dr. Ahmed Al Qudaimi
Dr. Ahmed Motarreb
Dr. Nasser Munibari
Saudi Arabia
Dr. Adel Tash
Dr. Khalid Al Najashi
Dr. Waleed AlHabeeb
Accommodation
As November is a peak season in the area, we recommend booking your hotel in advance for the conference days.
To help you secure the best rates, we’ve partnered with several hotels offering exclusive discounted rates for conference attendees.
By booking early, you can avoid higher prices and ensure a comfortable stay during the event. Don’t miss out—reserve your close-by accommodation today!
Hotel Partners
Rotana City Center Doha Hotel
Located just a short walk from the conference venue, the Rotana City Center Doha Hotel offers contemporary comfort in the heart of Doha. This modern hotel features stylish rooms, a variety of dining options,
and excellent facilities including a fitness center and a rooftop pool. Whether you're here for business or leisure, its prime location and top-notch service make it an ideal choice for your stay during the conference.
Located in the vibrant West Bay, is a stylish hotel that stands as a striking part of Doha's iconic skyline. Combining locally inspired design with contemporary art, it offers an elevated lifestyle experience. Situated near embassies, financial institutions, and luxury shopping malls, Andaz is perfectly positioned in the heart of Doha, making it an ideal choice for both business and leisure travelers.
Located in the heart of Doha, Le Méridien City Center Hotel offers modern rooms, diverse dining options, and excellent facilities like a fitness center and outdoor pool. Its prime location near shopping, dining,
and entertainment venues makes it an ideal choice for both business and leisure travelers. Every guestroom is equipped for comfort, ensuring a delightful experience.
A luxurious hotel located in the heart of Doha, Qatar. It offers modern accommodations with elegant rooms and suites, along with a variety of dining options, including international and local cuisines. The hotel is connected to the City Center Mall, providing easy access to shopping and entertainment. Guests can enjoy top-notch amenities, including an outdoor pool, fitness center, and a full-service spa. The Marriott Marquis is a popular choice for both business and leisure travelers, thanks to its convenient location and exceptional services.
Become a sponsor of the 17th Gulf Heart Association Conference or join us as an exhibitor to showcase how your innovations are helping advance the field of cardiac care.
Please note that the information on this event will be continuously updated until August. If you're interested in exploring sponsorship packages or exhibition opportunities, please contact us at safia@justusandotto.com for more details.
The 17th Gulf Heart Association Conference brings together experts and practitioners across the cardiology field, fostering collaboration and knowledge exchange. Whether you’re conducting research or applying cardiac care in clinical practice, this event offers valuable insights and networking opportunities for:
Cardiologists
Medical Researchers
Cardiac Surgeons
Electrophysiologists
Internal Medicine Physicians
Cardiac Nurses
Medical Students
Radiologists
Registration Link will open on April 15, 2025
Abstract Submissions
Thank you for your interest in participating in the 17th Gulf Heart Association Conference by sharing the work you do!
Please see below for more details on Important Dates, Topics, Submission Guidelines, and Printing Shops.
We look forward to reviewing your submissions.
Important Dates
Date
Activity
May 15, 2025
Abstract Submission Open
July 15, 2025
Abstract Submission Deadline
August 5, 2025
Abstract Submission Acceptance Announcement
Topics
Advancements in Cardiovascular Medicine and Technology
Cardiovascular Risk Factors
Heart Failure: Challenges in Diagnosis, Treatment, and Rehabilitation
Emerging Trends in Cardiovascular Surgery
Submission Guidelines
An abstract may have only one presenting author. There is no limit to the number of co- authors per abstract.
Submitting an abstract is free of charge.
Abstracts cannot be edited after submission.
The abstract submission deadline of May 15, 2025 will be strictly followed. No extensions or considerations can be given for late abstract submissions.
The Abstract Submission form will open on May 15, 2025
Oral Presentation
Test Submission
400 characters remaining
About Qatar
Qatar is a peninsular Arab state whose terrain comprises of arid desert and
a long Arabian Gulf shoreline of beaches and dunes. Also on the coast is the
capital, Doha, known for its futuristic skyscrapers and other ultramodern architecture
inspired by ancient Islamic design, such as the limestone Museum of Islamic Art.
Discover the experiences Qatar has to offer here.
View upcoming events in the Qatar Calendar.
Visa Requirements
Be sure to check the list of countries that are granted visa-free entry to Qatar. If your country of citizenship is not present in the visa-free entry list, you will be required to apply for a visa before you travel.
For the latest information on visa requirements please visit the Visit Qatar visa information page here.
Health Insurance
Mandatory Health Insurance is required for all travellers visiting Qatar. For more information on visitor’s health insurance requirements please visit Ministry of Public Health - Mandatory Health Insurance Scheme page here.
Important
Please ensure to conduct research on any requirements you may need in addition to visas and health insurance. Ticket refunds will not be applicable should visas or any other requirements be rejected.
Discover Qatar
Qatar offers a wealth of unique experiences, and three must-visit destinations are Souq Waqif, The Pearl and Katara. Souq Waqif is a vibrant market where you can explore traditional Qatari culture, shop for unique souvenirs, and enjoy authentic cuisine. The Pearl is a luxurious area known for its Mediterranean-inspired architecture,
upscale shopping, and stunning waterfront views. Katara Cultural Village is Qatar's cultural hub, offering a rich blend of art, history, and tradition with theaters, galleries, and beautiful architecture. These iconic places provide a perfect mix of heritage, modernity, and beauty for any visitor.
Airline Partner
As a valued guest of The 17th Gulf Heart Association Conference, we want to ensure you have the best experience possible. Enjoy a 10% discount on your airline ticket on selected connections when booking with Qatar Airways through the link below.
Please click here to view the list of eligible countries for this offer.
The booking link will be available soon
Venue Partner
Sheraton Grand Doha Resort & Convention Hotel
Conveniently located in the heart of West Bay, Doha come together to escape and unwind at Sheraton Grand Doha. Take in the stunning views and the gorgeous sunsets — either from our beach resort or from your room balcony. Enjoy 5 star luxury and relax in the comfort of our luxurious rooms and suites. Make the most of your time in the city while enjoying the beach or at the outdoor pool and Jacuzzi. Stay fit in our 24-hour fitness center and unwind in our lush garden. Immerse in art and history at the Museum of Islamic Art and National Museum of Qatar, take a stroll down Doha Corniche or The Pearl, or find trinkets to take home at Souq Waqif. Enjoy tastes that inspire in our 7 restaurants, bars and lounges. For large meetings, intimate gatherings and everything in between, allow us to bring your group together. Take advantage of our 24 flexible, fluid event spaces, perfect for purposeful gatherings. Our spaces are designed to bring people together.
We are excited to welcome you to our upcoming event, the 17th Gulf Heart Association Conference at the Sheraton Grand Doha Resort & Convention Hotel, Doha, Qatar. The main conference will take place at Al Majlis, a dedicated venue withing the Sheraton, offering a state-of-the-art setting for our sessions. Additionally, all breakout sessions will be hosted at Al Rayan within the same venue. We look forward to seeing you there for an engaging and insightful experience!
Dr. Javaid I. Sheikh
Dean | Professor of Psychiatry | Professor of Healthcare Policy and Research, Weill Cornell Medicine – Qatar
Dr. Javaid I. Sheikh is an internationally renowned medical executive and creative thought leader in global academic medicine. Since beginning his tenure as Dean of Weill Cornell Medicine-Qatar (WCM-Q) in 2010, Dr. Sheikh has pioneered and implemented innovative biomedical educational and research programs enabling WCM-Q to become widely acknowledged as a leading institution preparing “Global Physicians” for the 21st century. Further, the establishment of a comprehensive research infrastructure with core laboratories (e.g., genomics, proteomics, transcriptomics, metabolomics) as national resource that allows WCM-Q to perform and apply deep molecular phenotyping of the population in Qatar, as well as the application of personalized medicine approaches to complex diseases such as diabetes.
Most recently, Dr. Sheikh has launched an Artificial Intelligence (AI) Center for Precision Health. The Center will leverage novel AI tools, such as refined data analytics and algorithms, from large volumes of data using mobile apps, wearable sensors, and electronic health records (EHR) to promote optimal health and wellness. Such approaches, combined with Population Health science orientation, should lead to enhanced healthy lifespan for the populace.
Dr. Sheikh co-founded Innovations in Global Health Professions Education (https://www.innohealthed.com/), a globally interconnected forum providing an international platform for profiling conceptual and technological innovations in health professions education. He also serves on the Artificial Intelligence in Health Professions Education forum of the National Academy of Medicine in the US.
Prior to joining WCM-Q, Dr. Sheikh built a distinguished career as a Professor of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Associate Dean, and Chairman of the Board at the Palo Alto Institute for Research and Education at Stanford University School of Medicine and affiliated hospitals in California.
H.E. Dr. Hajar Ahmed Hajar Albinali
Conference Chairman 17th Gulf Heart Association Conference
Hajar A. Albinali, MD, FACC, FESC, FGHA, Senior Cardiology Consultant, Director of Medical Education in Heart Hospital. He was a former Managing Director of HMC, Chairman of Cardiology & Cardiac Surgery, Undersecretary of Health and Minister of Health and past President of GHA.
Dr. Nidal Asaad
MBBS, FRCPC Senior Cardiology Consultant, CEO, Medical Director and Head of Cardiac Electrophysiology Heart Hospital in Qatar
Dr. Nidal Asaad, MBBS, FRCPC – Senior Cardiology Consultant, CEO, Medical Director and Head of Cardiac Electrophysiology at Heart Hospital in Qatar and an Associate Professor at Weill Cornell Medical College. Dr. Asaad is actively involved in cardiovascular research and Gulf region registries with more than 100 publications in peer review journals. He is certified in internal medical cardiology and cardiac electrophysiology from University of Toronto and University of Ottawa Heart Institute. He is a member of the steering committee for the Gulf Heart Rhythm Society and has been a member of the Arab Board of Examiners in Cardiology for over 10 years.
Prof. Dr. Uwe Zeymer
Interventional Cardiologist University Heart Center Freiburg
Doctor Uwe Zeymer is interventional Cardiologist at the University Heart Center Freiburg, Department of Cardiology, Germany. He is Vice-Director of the Institut für Herzinfarktforschung Ludwigshafen. He has been board certified in internal medicine, cardiology, interventional cardiology and intensive care medicine.
After his graduation from Medical School at the Universities of Munich and Marburg in 1985, Dr Zeymer gained experience as a resident, fellow and attendee in the Department of Cardiology, Municipal Hospital, Kassel, and as a clinical research fellow in the Department of Cardiology, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, USA. He is full Professor of Medicine at the University of Göttingen.
Dr. Zeymer is or has chaired or been a member of the Steering Committee numerous trials in patients with acute coronary syndromes, antithrombotic therapies and anticoagulants. In addition, he has been chair or member of the Steering committee of several international registries in interventional cardiology, treatment of hypertension, anticoagulation for atrial fibrillation and acute coronary syndromes. He has been co-chairman of the largest randomized clinical studies in patients with infarct-related cardiogenic shock, such as the IABP-SHOCK 2 trial, the CULPRIT-Shock trial and the ECLS-Shock trial.
Dr. Zeymer has authored and co-authored over 600 scientific papers on cardiovascular disease in journals such as the New England Journal of Medicine, Lancet, JAMA, European Heart Journal, Circulation and Journal of the American College of Cardiology.
Dr. Zeymer is member of the editorial board of Clinical Research in Cardiology, European Heart Journal Acute Cardiovascular Care and is European Editor for Cardiology and Therapy
Dr. Zeymer has been the Board member Chair of the Scientific Committee of the Association for Acute Cardiovascular Care (ACVC) of the ESC, the Chair of the Working Group of Thrombosis of the German Cardiac Society and the Chair of the Working for Quality Insurance and Registries of the German Cardiac Society. He is the past and current chair of the STEMI Registry of the European Society of Cardiology.
Prof. Carlo Di Mario
MD, PhD, FESC, FACC, FSCAI, FRCP Chair of Cardiology University of Florence, Italy
Prof. Carlo Di Mario is Professor of Cardiology at the University of Florence and Director of the Structural Interventional Cardiology Division of the University Hospital Careggi, Florence, Italy. He is still clinically active in London where he holds GMC registration and offers consultations in the Royal Brompton Hospital and PCI/TAVI in the Harley Street Clinic. Previous posts included 15 years as Professor of Clinical Cardiology at Imperial College of Sciences, Medicine & Technology, London and Consultant Cardiologist at the Royal Brompton Hospital. He also practiced at the San Raffaele University Hospital, Milan, Italy. He trained in Cardiology at the University of Padova, Italy, but he soon moved for interventional training at the Thoraxcentre of Rotterdam, the Netherlands, where he also completed a PhD in Intracoronary Ultrasound Imaging and Doppler.
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10% discount applies to both Economy and Business Class for the following countries.
Please note that this offer will not be included with ongoing promotions.
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