Professor Zuhair Al-Hleis, a prominent Saudi surgeon, has been awarded the Lifetime Achievement Award for 2026 by the American College of Cardiology, in recognition of his scientific and educational contributions that have elevated cardiac care both within the Kingdom and beyond. This honor was announced during the college's annual meeting, attended by a select group of leading cardiologists from around the world.
Professor Al-Hleis is known for his tireless work at King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Centre in Riyadh, where he has dedicated over 48 years to serving patients. His medical career is marked by performing more than 25,000 heart surgeries, in addition to establishing the first registry for congenital heart diseases in the Middle East. He also developed a comprehensive global heart center at the hospital, making him one of the leading figures in this field.
Event Details
The Lifetime Achievement Award is one of the prestigious awards given to physicians who have made outstanding contributions in their field. Professor Al-Hleis was honored for his long and accomplished career, having led over 60 charitable and educational surgical missions in more than 20 countries, reflecting his deep commitment to serving humanity.
Al-Hleis has also contributed to training generations of surgeons and co-authored reference books in cardiology and heart surgery, which have helped raise the standards of medical education in the region.
Background & Context
Historically, Professor Zuhair Al-Hleis is considered a pioneer in the field of cardiac surgery in Saudi Arabia, having significantly contributed to the development of this specialty. His establishment of the congenital heart disease registry is a crucial step in understanding and treating these conditions, which has improved healthcare for patients.
This award comes at a time when there is increasing global interest in heart research, as developing new techniques in heart surgery is a health priority. Professor Al-Hleis's achievements highlight the importance of research and education in this field.
Impact & Consequences
The Lifetime Achievement Award for Professor Al-Hleis serves as a testament to his profound impact on the medical community. His recognition encourages young physicians to strive for excellence and creativity in their fields and reinforces the importance of charitable and educational work in medicine.
This honor also demonstrates how physicians can be leaders in their communities, not only through providing healthcare but also through education and participation in research.
Regional Significance
The achievements of Professor Al-Hleis are a source of pride for Arabs, showcasing the significant potential in the region to advance the fields of medicine and surgery. His contributions to cardiac surgery enhance Saudi Arabia's status as a leading medical hub in the Middle East.
His recognition inspires physicians in other Arab countries to work diligently and excel in their fields, thereby improving the overall healthcare standards in the region.
Congratulations to Professor Zuhair Al-Hleis, congratulations to the nation, and congratulations to humanity.