MUSCAT: The University Medical City in Oman has successfully implemented the country’s first CAR-T cell therapy, marking a historic achievement in advanced cancer care. This groundbreaking procedure was carried out through the National Centre for Blood Diseases and Bone Marrow Transplantation, positioning Oman among the few regional hubs offering this cutting-edge treatment. CAR-T therapy, considered one of the most advanced immunotherapies, involves collecting T cells from a patient, genetically engineering them, and reinjecting them to specifically target and destroy cancer cells. The achievement not only reflects a medical milestone but also symbolizes a leap toward localized access to life-saving technologies previously available only at select international centers.
This revolutionary therapy has demonstrated remarkable results in patients suffering from conditions like B-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (B-ALL) and diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL), particularly for those who have not responded to traditional treatments. By introducing CAR-T therapy within Oman, healthcare professionals now have a powerful new tool to combat these aggressive blood cancers, offering renewed hope for patients and their families. The availability of this therapy within the country ensures quicker access to treatment and reduces the emotional and financial burden associated with seeking care abroad.
According to Dr. Ibrahim bin Mohammed Al Nabhani, Assistant Professor at Sultan Qaboos University and Consultant Haematologist, this accomplishment reflects the rapid advancement of Oman’s healthcare system in biomedical innovation. He emphasized that previously, this treatment was only provided by a handful of specialized global centers. The localization of CAR-T therapy marks an important shift toward medical self-reliance and underscores Oman’s commitment to adopting world-class technologies for patient care. This achievement showcases the healthcare sector’s capacity to integrate research outcomes into practical applications that deliver significant clinical benefits.
Professor Dr. Murtadha bin Khamis Al Khabouri, Head of the Haematology Department, highlighted the extensive collaboration that made this milestone possible. The treatment’s successful execution resulted from joint efforts among the Lymphoma and Myeloma Unit, Bone Marrow Transplantation and Cell Therapy teams, the Ministry of Health’s Department of Overseas Treatment, and international partners such as Fortis Memorial Research Institute. Dr. Sultan bin Salem Al Harthy further noted that this step reduces dependence on sending patients abroad and significantly cuts associated costs. The achievement represents a strategic move toward creating a self-sufficient, innovation-driven healthcare system, aligning with Oman’s broader vision for advanced medical services and sustainable healthcare development.
