Steering Committee
PROF. CRISTIANO SPADA
Prof. Cristiano Spada is the Director of the Digestive Endoscopy Unit at Fondazione Poliambulanza Hospital, Brescia, and Full Professor of Gastroenterology at the Catholic University of Rome. An expert in diagnostic and therapeutic endoscopy, he specializes in small bowel procedures, colonoscopy, and EUS. Prof. Spada is a pioneer in advanced endoscopic techniques and part of the European Endoscopy Training Centre. With over 150 publications, he is an internationally recognized leader in digestive endoscopy and gastroenterology research.
DR. JENAN GHAITH
Dr. Jenan Ghaith is a Consultant Gastroenterologist and Hepatologist at Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi. She is American and Canadian Board-certified in Internal Medicine and Gastroenterology. Trained at McGill University and the University of Toronto, she further specialized in advanced pancreaticobiliary endoscopy at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, USA. Dr. Ghaith’s expertise includes endoscopic treatment of GERD, obesity, and complex pancreaticobiliary diseases. She is an advocate for women in medicine and an active member of global endoscopy societies. Her innovative approach to patient care combines advanced techniques with a commitment to clinical excellence.
PROF. KULWINDER S DUA
Prof. Kulwinder S. Dua is a renowned Gastroenterologist and Hepatologist at Froedtert Hospital and Professor at the Medical College of Wisconsin, USA. Specializing in advanced interventional endoscopy, his research focuses on aerodigestive tract physiology and aspiration prevention, for which he secured NIH grants. Prof. Dua holds multiple patents and has over 200 publications in peer-reviewed journals. Recognized globally for his contributions, he has received several awards, including the ASGE Master of Endoscopy award. As Chair of the World Endoscopy Organization Outreach Committee, he actively trains physicians worldwide in clinical gastroenterology and advanced endoscopy techniques.
DR. SARAH AL GHAMDI
Dr. Sarah Al Ghamdi is an Assistant Professor and Consultant Gastroenterologist at King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah. Trained at the University of Toronto and Johns Hopkins Hospital, she specializes in advanced endoscopic procedures, including endoscopic resection and treatment-focused research. Dr. Al Ghamdi is American Board-certified in Gastroenterology and a Fellow of the Royal College of Physicians of Canada. Her expertise in innovative endoscopic techniques and dedication to research have positioned her as a leader in advancing gastroenterological care in Saudi Arabia.
Advisory Committee
PROF. MAHMOUD OMAR
Professor Mahmoud Omar is a Counselor at the ELEGANCE Society. He served as a professor at Theodor Bilharz Research Institute in Egypt with 20 years of experience in applied field research in the areas of schistosomiasis, viral hepatitis, liver cirrhosis, portal hypertension, health promotion, behavior changes, gender-sensitive interventions, and adolescent/youth development. Currently, he is a consultant and clinical director of the Digestive Diseases and Endoscopy Department at New Mowasat Hospital in Kuwait. Professor Omar is a Fellow of AGA, ACG and ASGE. He is Co-Chair of the Outreach Committee of the World Endoscopy Organization.
DR. NAHLA AZZAM
Dr. Nahla Azzam is a Professor of Medicine and Consultant Gastroenterologist at King Saud University Medical City (KSUMC), Riyadh. With expertise in viral gastroenteritis, colitis, and proctocolitis, she has authored 64 peer-reviewed articles over the past 15 years. Dr. Azzam is highly regarded for her contributions to gastroenterology research and clinical care. Her proficiency in colonoscopy and endoscopy has established her as a leader in advanced gastrointestinal diagnostics a...
DR. NUHA ALAMMAR
Dr. Nuha Alammar is an esteemed Consultant Gastroenterologist and Hepatologist at King Khalid University Hospital, Riyadh, specializing in neurogastroenterology and motility diseases. A graduate of King Saud University, she completed advanced training at Johns Hopkins University, USA. Dr. Nuha holds American Board certifications in Internal Medicine and Gastroenterology. With over eight years of international experience, her clinical expertise includes GERD, motility disorders, ...
DR. SHARMILA SACHITHANANDAN
Dr. Sharmila Sachithanandan is a Consultant Gastroenterologist at Ramsay-Sime Darby Medical Centre, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. An ASEAN scholar and graduate of the Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, she is a Fellow of the Royal College of Physicians and Academy of Medicine Malaysia. Dr. Sharmila is the founding President of WIGNAP and serves on editorial boards of prominent journals like Gastrointestinal Endoscopy. With expertise in advanced endoscopy and gastroenter...
DR. VIVEK KAUL
Dr. Vivek Kaul is the Segal-Watson Professor of Medicine and former Chief of Gastroenterology and Hepatology at the University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY, USA. With a focus on therapeutic endoscopy, interventional EUS, and advanced ERCP, Dr. Kaul is an expert in managing complex GI cancers. He co-directs the Developmental Endoscopy Lab, fostering innovation and training in endoscopy. Active in national and international gastroenterology committees, he chairs the ACG...
Elegance Faculty
DR. ABDULRAHMAN SAADEDDIN
Dr. Abdulrahman Saadeddin, a Consultant in Gastroenterology based in the UAE, specializes in inammatory bowel disease (IBD), advanced endoscopy, and liver diseases. With a focus on early diagnosis and innovative treatment strategies, Dr. Saadeddin has become a leading figure in gastrointestinal care in the region. His dedication to improving patient outcomes is complemented by his involvement in medical education and research, advancing the standards of care for complex GI conditions.
DR. ABDULLA ALHASSANI
Dr. Abdulla Alhassani is the Head of Gastroenterology at Zayed Military Hospital, specializing in bariatric endoscopy and GERD treatments. With over 20 years of experience and Canadian training, Dr. Alhassani has contributed to the development of innovative gastroenterological interventions. He is known for his patient-centered approach, combining advanced procedures with cutting-edge technologies. Dr. Alhassani’s work in bariatric medicine and GERD treatment has helped numerous patients achieve better outcomes, solidifying his leadership in the field.
DR. ABID SHOWKAT ZARGAR
Dr. Abid Showkat Zargar, a Consultant with 13 years of experience, is a UK-trained expert in therapeutic endoscopy and pancreatico-biliary diseases. Renowned for establishing EUS services in Canada, he practices globally, contributing to GI care advancements. With significant expertise in minimally invasive techniques, Dr. Zargar has enhanced diagnostic and therapeutic procedures worldwide. His dedication to medical education and research underscores his commitment to delivering excellence in gastrointestinal and hepatobiliary care.
DR. AHMAD JAZZAR
Dr. Ahmad Jazzar, a Consultant Gastroenterologist with 23 years of experience, specializes in treating esophageal, intestinal, pancreatic, and liver disorders. A graduate of Aleppo University, he has authored over 30 publications and is a recognized expert in interventional endoscopy. Dr. Jazzar’s work focuses on colorectal polyps, viral hepatitis therapy, and IBD. Practicing across the UAE and Oklahoma City, he actively contributes to advancing gastroenterology care, research, and education on an international level.
DR. AHMED SULTAN
Dr. Ahmed Sultan, a Consultant at Khalifa University, specializes in advanced endoscopy and GI tumor resections. With a Ph.D. from Egypt and a strong track record of numerous publications, he is a prominent figure in gastrointestinal research. Dr. Sultan’s contributions to endoscopic innovations and therapeutic techniques have advanced diagnostic accuracy and treatment approaches for complex GI conditions. His academic and clinical expertise highlights his commitment to improving global standards in gastroenterology.
DR. ALEXANDER KHVOSHCHEV
Dr. Alexander Khvoshchev, a family doctor with 22 years of experience, specializes in diagnosing and treating gastrointestinal diseases in adults and children. His expertise includes managing abdominal pain, bacterial and viral infections, and performing diagnostic and therapeutic endoscopy procedures, such as colonoscopies and polypectomies. Attentive to his patients, he also treats cardiovascular diseases, anemia, and respiratory tract infections. Fluent in English and Russian, Dr. Khvoshchev prioritizes personalized care and tailored solutions for each case.
DR. ALI AL FAZARI
Dr. Ali Al Fazari, a dual-board-certified Gastroenterologist, has over 15 years of expertise in GI and liver disease. As Clinical Professor and President of the Emirates Digestive Diseases International Conference, he leads UAE healthcare and academic initiatives. Dr. Fazari’s groundbreaking research focuses on gastric and colonic inammation, enhancing diagnostic precision and therapeutic outcomes. His dedication to improving care and education has established him as a distinguished leader in the field of gastroenterology.
DR. ASA’D IZZIDDIN DAJANI
Dr. Asa’d Dajani, a Consultant in Gastroenterology, has decades of experience, pioneering endoscopic services in Kuwait and the UAE. A Fellow of the Royal College of Physicians, he has made significant contributions to clinical education and research. Known for his advancements in endoscopic techniques, Dr. Dajani’s work has had a lasting impact on international gastroenterology. His expertise and dedication to innovation continue to drive progress in the field of digestive diseases.
DR. ASMA AL KANDARI
Dr. Asma Al Kandari, a Consultant at Taiba Hospital, specializes in diagnostic and therapeutic endoscopy, POEM, and GERD treatment. A member of the European and UK Boards, she also manages complex liver diseases and advanced polyp removal. With extensive expertise in cutting-edge techniques, Dr. Al Kandari is dedicated to improving patient outcomes and advancing the standards of gastroenterology care in Kuwait and the wider region.
DR. CECILIO AZAR
Dr. Cecilio Azar, a Consultant at Clemenceau Medical Center Dubai, specializes in IBD and obesity management. With over 15 years of experience, he has become a prolific educator and an expert in advanced endoscopy. Dr. Azar combines his clinical expertise with a commitment to medical education, advancing innovative diagnostic and therapeutic techniques. His work continues to shape the future of gastrointestinal healthcare in the Middle East.
DR. CHRISTOS TZIVINIKOS
Dr. Christos Tzivinikos, Pediatric Consultant at Al Jalila Children’s Hospital, specializes in IBD and feeding disorders. UK-trained, he leads research and guideline development aimed at improving pediatric GI care. Dr. Tzivinikos’s expertise in treating complex gastrointestinal conditions in children has established him as a pioneer in his field. Through his dedication to clinical care and research, he is advancing the standards of pediatric gastroenterology in the UAE.
DR. ELENA KASIMTSEVA
Dr. Elena Kasimtseva, a family doctor with 15 years of experience, specializes in gastrointestinal diseases, endocrine disorders, and anemia. She treats patients aged 14 and above, focusing on personalized care and clear communication. Trained at the Russian National Research Institute, she is a liated with prominent associations like AGA and EASL. She is skilled in therapeutic endoscopy, chronic disease management, and lifestyle adjustments. Before relocating to Dubai, Dr. Kasimtseva worked at top Moscow clinics, including GMS Clinic.
DR. EMAD FAYYAD
Dr. Emad Fayyad is the Head of Gastroenterology and Hepatology at Medcare Hospital, Dubai. With extensive experience in diagnostic and therapeutic endoscopy, he specializes in procedures like ERCP, EUS, and ultrasonography. Dr. Fayyad completed his medical and postgraduate training in Romania and holds the Jordan Board Certification in Gastroenterology. A member of multiple international societies, including the European Society of Endoscopic Ultrasonography, Dr. Fayyad is dedicated to advancing his field. His patient-focused approach ensures comprehensive care for complex gastrointestinal conditions, earning him recognition across the region.
Prof. EVELIEN DEKKER
Prof. Evelien Dekker, a Consultant Gastroenterologist from the Netherlands, is renowned for her expertise in colorectal cancer, inammatory bowel diseases (IBD), and endoscopic techniques. With a significant academic background and numerous publications, Prof. Dekker's work focuses on improving early detection and personalized treatments for GI disorders. Her contributions to both clinical practice and research have earned her recognition as a leader in gastroenterology and a driving force behind advancing …
DR. FAROOQ KHAN
Dr. Farooq Khan, Consultant at King’s College Hospital Dubai, specializes in hepatology and endobariatrics. A pioneer in liver and diabetes clinics, he integrates advanced diagnostic and therapeutic techniques into his practice. Dr. Khan is a sought-after speaker at global conferences, sharing innovations in the management of liver diseases and metabolic disorders. His expertise and dedication to improving patient outcomes have positioned him as a leader in gastroenterology and hepatology care in the region.
DR. FATEMA AL MOUSAWI
Dr. Fatema Al Mousawi, Clinical Tutor at Kuwait University and Senior Registrar at the Ministry of Health, specializes in gastroenterology. A 2014 graduate of Kuwait University, she completed residency programs in Internal Medicine and Gastroenterology at the University of Toronto. Passionate about clinical education, Dr. Al Mousawi mentors medical trainees and oversees gastroenterology rotations at Farwaniya Hospital. Her expertise in advanced diagnostic and therapeutic techniques enhances care for complex digestive diseases in Kuwait.
DR. FATHIYA AL HARTHY
Dr. Fathiya Al Harthy, Pediatric Consultant at The Royal Hospital, Oman, specializes in NAFLD and liver transplantation in children. A leader in pediatric nutrition committees, she focuses on improving the diagnosis and treatment of liver and gastrointestinal diseases. Her clinical expertise and dedication to pediatric health have made her a respected figure in the field, advancing standards of care for children with complex GI and liver conditions across the region.
DR. FILIPPOS GEORGOPOULOS
Dr. Filippos Georgopoulos is a Consultant at Al Zahra Hospital, Dubai, specializing in interventional endoscopy with expertise in IBD. A prolific speaker and researcher, Dr. Georgopoulos has published extensively on gastrointestinal innovations. He is recognized for his work in advancing endoscopic techniques and therapies for complex GI conditions. Dr. Georgopoulos is a leader in the field, contributing to both clinical practice and medical education, and is dedicated to improving patient care through innovation.
DR. GAURAV MUKTESH
Dr. Gaurav Muktesh, Consultant at Al Zahra Hospital, Dubai, specializes in advanced endoscopic procedures, including EUS and POEM. Trained in India and Amsterdam, he has performed over 10,000 procedures, focusing on complex GI conditions and compassionate patient care. Dr. Muktesh’s dedication to advancing endoscopic techniques has positioned ...
DR. HISHAM ABDULLAH AL DHAHAB
Dr. Hisham Al Dhahab, Senior Consultant at Badr Al Samaa Royal Hospital, Oman, is a Canadian and American board-certified expert in ERCP and EUS. With over 25 years of experience, he specializes in advanced diagnostic and therapeutic endoscopy. Dr. Al Dhahab is a leader in GI education and research in Oman, contributing significantly to the training of new physicians and the development of innovative approaches in the field of gastroenterology.
DR. LINETTE ACHECAR JUSTO
Dr. Linette Achecar earned her medical degree in 2005 from Iberoamericana University, Dominican Republic, and completed her Gastroenterology training at Ramon y Cajal University Hospital, Spain, in 2011. She holds a PhD in liver disease from the University of Alcala de Henares (2017). With over 16 years of experience, she works in Abu Dhabi as a Consultant Gastroenterologist. Dr. Achecar specializes in liver and pancreas diseases, reflux, endoscopy, motility disorders, and intra-gastric balloon insertion..
DR. MAHEEBA ABDULLA
Dr. Maheeba Abdulla is a Consultant at Ibn AlNafees Hospital, Bahrain, specializing in hepatology and advanced endoscopy. UK-trained, Dr. Abdulla’s clinical expertise includes liver transplantation, hepatitis research, and minimally invasive endoscopic procedures. She has a strong research background and is committed to advancing hepatology care. Through her work, Dr. Abdulla has made significant contributions to liver disease management, offering innovative solutions and treatments to improve patient outcomes in Bahrain and the wider region.
DR. MAJD ALSAYB
Dr. Majd Alsayb is a Consultant Gastroenterology, hepatology and liver transplant Director of gastroenterology and Endoscopy at King Fahd armed forces hospital, Jeddah She did her gastroenterology fellowship in McMaster university, and her hepatology/liver transplant in the University of Toronto
DR. MARIAM MUKHTAR
Dr. Mariam Mukhtar is an Assistant Professor at King Abdulaziz University, specializing in IBD and advanced endoscopy. Her research focuses on improving diagnostic and therapeutic strategies for GI diseases, particularly IBD. Dr. Mukhtar is dedicated to advancing clinical care through both her teaching and research, contributing to the development of innovative treatments for complex gastrointestinal conditions. She is a respected figure in gastroenterology education and an advocate for better patient outcomes in GI care.
DR. MAYADA ELNEGOULY
Dr. Mayada Elnegouly, a German board-certied Consultant Gastroenterologist and Hepatologist at Clemenceau Medical Center Hospital, Dubai, has over 16 years of international experience. She specializes in advanced diagnostic and therapeutic endoscopy, liver diseases, inammatory bowel disease, and GI oncology. A former Assistant Professor at Cairo University, she is uent in Arabic, English, and German. With a decade of experience at the Technical University of Munich, Dr. Elnegouly excels in innovative medical technologies and personalized patient care.
DR. MAZIN RASOOL ALJABIRI
Dr. Mazin Rasool Aljabiri, Consultant at Mediclinic Dubai, has over 15 years of experience in advanced endoscopy and hepatology. Trained in the UK, his clinical focus includes liver transplantation, cancer screening, and medical education. Dr. Aljabiri is dedicated to integrating the latest medical advancements in hepatology into patient care. His expertise spans various therapeutic procedures, and he is committed to mentoring and training future gastroenterologists through his academic contributions and clinical leadership.
DR. MOHAMMED AZZAM KAYASSEH
Dr. Mohammed Azzam Kayasseh, Consultant at Dr. Sulaiman Al Habib Hospital, specializes in liver transplantation and microbiome-based diagnostic tools. With decades of experience, he is dedicated to advancing patient care through innovative diagnostic approaches. Dr. Kayasseh’s contributions to hepatology and microbiome research have significantly enhanced the understanding and management of liver and gastrointestinal disorders. His clinical expertise and research initiatives make him a key figure in gastroenterology and hepatology in the Middle East.
DR. MOHAMED ABDELHAFEZ
Dr. Mohamed AbdelHafez, a Consultant Gastroenterologist at Medcare Royal Specialty Hospital in Dubai, has over 19 years of experience. German Board-certied, he specializes in advanced endoscopic procedures, including ESD, POEM, and ERCP. Formerly Head of Endoscopy at the Technical University of Munich, he has performed over 30,000 endoscopic procedures. Fluent in Arabic, English, and German, he is an active researcher and member of prestigious societies like ESGE, providing expert care for diverse patient needs
DR. MOHAMMED BADRE ALAM
Dr. Mohammed Alam, Consultant at Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi, specializes in liver and GI disorders. Australian-trained, he excels in advanced endoscopy and provides comprehensive patient care. Dr. Alam’s expertise spans liver transplantation and innovative diagnostic techniques for complex gastrointestinal diseases. With a patient-centered approach and a commitment to advancing gastroenterology standards, he has become a recognized leader in the field across the UAE and beyond.
DR. MUNEERA AL MOHANNADI
Dr. Muneera Al Mohannadi is a family physician at Qatar’s Primary Health Care Corporation and Assistant Professor at Weill Cornell Medicine-Qatar. A 2009 graduate of WCM-Q, she earned Arab Board certification in 2016. Dr. Al Mohannadi is dedicated to advancing primary care and academic excellence in Qatar, mentoring residents in the Family Medicine Residency Program. She focuses on providing comprehensive healthcare and improving community health standards through her academic and clinical work.
DR. NEIL PHILIP GALLETLY
Dr. Neil Galletly is a UK-trained Consultant with over 25 years of experience, specializing in diagnostic and therapeutic endoscopy. He has held senior positions in the UK and China and currently works at HealthBay, Dubai. His expertise includes liver health and gastrointestinal (GI) disorders, oering advanced treatments and diagnostics. Dr. Galletly is known for his commitment to improving patient care and advancing GI practices through his wealth of international experience.
DR. PIYUSH SOMANI
Dr. Piyush Somani is an interventional endoscopy specialist with over 15,000 procedures performed. Awarded the Asian Young Endoscopist Award, he is recognized for his innovative work in EUS, ERCP, and minimally invasive treatments. Dr. Somani's clinical expertise spans a range of advanced endoscopic techniques, and he continues to contribute to the global advancement of endoscopic procedures. His commitment to improving patient outcomes and advancing endoscopy practices has positioned him as a global leader in GI treatments.
DR. RAHUL ANAND NATHWANI
Dr. Rahul Anand Nathwani is a Consultant at Mediclinic Dubai, specializing in IBD, hepatitis, and therapeutic endoscopy. U.S.-trained, Dr. Nathwani is an active contributor to international GI research and education. He focuses on early diagnosis and personalized treatments for gastrointestinal conditions, particularly IBD and liver diseases. With a strong academic background and a commitment to advancing gastroenterology through both research and clinical excellence, Dr. Nathwani continues to shape the future of GI care globally.
DR. RANA RIYAD AHMAD
Dr. Rana Riyad Ahmad, a Consultant in Pediatric Gastroenterology at Sheikh Khalifa Medical City, combines clinical expertise with academic excellence. Specializing in Gastroesophageal reux, Celiac disease, and gastrointestinal procedures, Dr. Ahmad's proficiency extends to nutritional issues and complex medical needs in children, showcasing her commitment to comprehensive pediatric care.
DR. SHANNON MELISSA CHAN
Dr. Shannon Melissa Chan, Assistant Professor at The Chinese University of Hong Kong, specializes in GI cancers and EUS. An active volunteer with Médecins Sans Frontières, she combines academic excellence with humanitarian work. Dr. Chan’s clinical expertise and dedication to improving patient outcomes have made her a prominent figure in the field of gastroenterology, blending cutting-edge research with compassionate care.
DR. TAMARA ALADHAMI
Dr. Tamara Aladhami is a Consultant Obstetrician and Gynecologist at Mediclinic Dubai, specializing in robotic surgery for gynecological conditions. As the UAE's only dual-certified robotic surgeon, she has significantly advanced women’s healthcare in the region. Dr. Aladhami is committed to improving surgical outcomes and patient care through minimally invasive techniques. Her expertise extends to high-risk obstetrics and reproductive health, making her a leader in gynecological surgery and a dedicated advocate for women's health.
DR. TAREK SALEH
Dr. Tarek Saleh, a Consultant at Novomed Dubai, has over 30 years of experience in non-surgical weight loss and gastrointestinal treatments. Trained in Paris, Dr. Saleh is known for his personalized approach to patient care. Specializing in bariatric medicine and GI health, he combines advanced techniques with a holistic approach to treat obesity and related disorders. His extensive experience in medical weight loss strategies makes him a trusted leader in the region’s GI and obesity treatment landscape.
DR. ZAHER KOUTOUBI
Dr. Zaher Koutoubi, a Consultant at Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi, specializes in hepatology, liver transplantation, and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). He is American Board-certied and has held leadership roles in Saudi Arabia and the UAE. With a strong focus on advancing hepatology and medical research, Dr. Koutoubi's work includes pioneering techniques for liver diseases and fostering global collaboration in GI and hepatology advancements. He is committed to improving patient care through innovative research and clinical expertise.
