Brazilian oncology service provider Oncoclínicas&Co has formed a joint venture partnership with Saudi Arabia’s Al Faisaliah Group to establish an advanced cancer treatment centre in Riyadh and a network of outpatient oncology centres across the Kingdom, with the aim of significantly improving access to advanced cancer care in the Kingdom and the wider region.
In a significant move that could reshape cancer care in the Middle East, Latin America’s leading oncology group, Oncoclínicas&Co, has announced a joint venture with Saudi Arabia’s Al Faisaliah Group. This partnership aims to bring state-of-the-art cancer treatment facilities to the Kingdom, starting with a flagship centre in Riyadh.
The collaboration between Oncoclínicas&Co and Al Faisaliah Group represents a milestone in international healthcare cooperation. By combining Oncoclínicas&Co’s expertise in oncology with Al Faisaliah Group’s deep understanding of the Saudi market, the joint venture will address the need for more accessible oncological services in KSA and the wider region.
Dr Bruno Ferrari, founder of Oncoclínicas&Co, recognised the potential for improvement in cancer care during an observership at Houston’s M.D. Anderson Cancer Center. This realisation led to the establishment of Oncoclínicas&Co in Brazil 14 years ago, which has since grown to become a leader in Latin American oncology services.
A model of comprehensive care
Oncoclínicas&Co’s approach to cancer treatment is characterised by its focus on the entire patient journey. The company’s model integrates operational efficiency, personalised care, and high specialisation. With a team of 2,700 specialist physicians across 145 units in 39 Brazilian cities, Oncoclínicas&Co has demonstrated its ability to deliver high-quality, accessible cancer care at scale. Operating over such a vast network, Oncoclínicas&Co has developed standardized protocols according to best-in-class international pathways and the latest scientific-based evidence.
The joint venture will offer a range of services, including diagnostics, infusional treatments including chemotherapy and immunotherapy, and radiotherapy.
HRH Mohammed K.A. Al Faisal, President of Al Faisaliah Group and future Chairman of the joint venture, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership’s potential impact: “We’re joining forces to improve cancer care. Our aim is to become the top private cancer treatment centre for a region of over 300 million people. We’ll offer advanced treatments and expert care to save lives and raise the bar in cancer treatment.”
The initial phase of the project involves the development of a state-of-the-art outpatient cancer care centre in Riyadh. This facility will be equipped with cutting-edge medical technologies and staffed by top oncologists from within the Kingdom.
The 9,000 square metre facility in Riyadh is set to include 70 chemotherapy boxes and two radiotherapy bunkers. This initial clinic is expected to serve as a model for future expansion, with plans to establish a network of outpatient clinics throughout Saudi Arabia.
Collaboration
Oncoclínicas&Co plans to invest between US$10-20 million over the next three years, with the total investment ranging between US$20-40 million. The Brazilian firm will hold a 51% share in the joint venture, with Al Faisaliah Group holding the remaining 49%.
Dr Ferrari highlighted the significance of this expansion: “We are thrilled to expand our premier oncology treatment services to KSA and the GCC nations. Our innovative service model will provide cancer patients with greater access to best-in-class care, and our dynamic business model will provide our shareholders and partners with a strong foothold for growth in the region.”
The collaboration between Oncoclínicas&Co and Al Faisaliah Group is expected to have a significant impact on the Saudi Arabian healthcare sector. With an estimated oncology market of US$3 billion in Saudi Arabia for 2024, according to the World Health Organization and Saudi Census, the potential for growth and improved patient outcomes is substantial.
