The Sultanate of Oman has achieved a groundbreaking medical milestone by successfully performing the first heart transplant in its history, carried out by a specialized Omani medical team—an event that marks a defining moment and a major turning point in the evolution of the nation’s healthcare system.
The Ministry of Health announced today (Wednesday) the successful completion of the country’s first heart transplant surgery. The recipient, an Omani patient suffering from chronic heart disease and long-term cardiac failure, is now recovering well following a flawless procedure.
The procedure targeted a patient who had long suffered from heart muscle failure and had a family history heavily burdened by the tragedy of this disease. The transplant was made possible by a generous donation from the family of a brain-dead donor. This act embodied the highest form of selflessness, affirming that the truest heartbeat of life is the one we entrust to others.
The complex and highly delicate procedure was performed at the National Heart Center at the Royal Hospital, one of the leading institutions specializing in cardiovascular care. It was carried out by a fully Omani multidisciplinary medical team comprising top national talents, under the leadership and supervision of H.E. Dr. Hilal bin Ali bin Hilal Al Sabti, Minister of Health, who participated in the surgical team himself due to his extensive expertise in cardiac surgery. An international medical team was also present in an observational capacity.
H.E. Dr. Hilal Al Sabti stated that this achievement marks a pivotal moment in the journey of Oman’s healthcare sector, as the heart transplant was performed using an organ from a deceased donor, in accordance with the highest medical and ethical standards, and full alignment with national laws and internationally endorsed guidelines for organ donation.
The Minister of Health emphasized that this accomplishment is not merely the result of a medical team’s efforts, but rather the embodiment of a comprehensive national vision—one that reflects wise leadership, the professionalism of Omani healthcare personnel, and a deeply rooted culture of human generosity. He affirmed that the healthcare workforce in Oman has proven its readiness to carry out advanced medical procedures with the utmost competence and responsibility.
Dr. Qasim Salih Al-Abri, Consultant Cardiac Surgeon at the Royal Hospital, stated: “Today, we have written a new chapter in Oman’s medical achievements with the successful completion of the first heart transplant performed entirely by Omani hands—an unprecedented milestone that reflects the remarkable progress of our healthcare sector. This outstanding success is the result of years of hard work, meticulous planning, and strategic investment in national talent. It is a source of pride for every Omani and a powerful message of what we can accomplish together. It also serves as an open invitation to every member of society to support the culture of organ donation, for every donation is a new hope and a renewed life for someone in need.”
Dr. Alaa Hassan Al-Lawati, Consultant Pediatric Cardiac Surgeon, remarked that the successful and seamless completion of the first heart transplant in Oman is, without a doubt, a clear testament to the advancement and integration of Oman’s healthcare system. Al-Lawati added that this achievement is the result of tireless efforts by every member of the team over the past period. Reaching such a milestone would not have been possible without the collaboration and expertise across multiple medical specialties. 
The Ministry of Health expressed its deep appreciation for the generous donation of the deceased, may he rest in peace, and the kind consent of his family. The Ministry emphasized that this humanitarian act serves as an exemplary model of solidarity and giving, and it represents a key pillar in promoting the culture of organ donation within the community.
The Ministry also called on the public to follow the details of the operation through the media campaign launched on its social media platforms, which includes educational information on the importance of organ donation.
More than a medical intervention, the operation stands as a powerful declaration that Oman is now prepared to take on some of the most complex and delicate challenges in modern medicine, capably and confidently.