American Hospital Dubai has signed an agreement with Al Naghi Medical to acquire the da Vinci 5 robotic surgical system from Intuitive, making it the first hospital in the GCC to bring in this model.
For patients and surgeons in the UAE, the addition matters because of what the new system can do that earlier versions could not. The da Vinci 5 carries more than 150 enhancements over previous generations, according to the hospital and Al Naghi Medical.
What the da Vinci 5 adds
Among the most notable upgrades is Force Feedback technology, which lets surgeons sense the amount of pressure being applied to tissue during an operation, a capability earlier da Vinci systems did not offer. The system also brings higher resolution 3D imaging, computing power described as 10,000 times greater than before, and a redesigned console intended to improve comfort for surgeons during long procedures.
Together, these changes are aimed at supporting more complex and delicate surgical procedures while maintaining precision and safety.
Building on existing robotic surgery capability
American Hospital Dubai is not new to robotic surgery. It already operates the da Vinci Xi and da Vinci SP systems, with the SP holding the distinction of being the first of its kind introduced in the Middle East. The da Vinci 5 extends that track record, this time as the first unit of its generation anywhere in the GCC.
Sherif Beshara, group CEO of American Hospital Dubai, framed the acquisition as part of a broader strategy. "American Hospital Dubai is committed to investing in technologies that elevate patient care and surgical excellence. The acquisition of the da Vinci 5 system reflects our strategic vision to remain a regional leader in robotic surgery while expanding our capabilities to perform increasingly complex and delicate procedures with the highest levels of precision and safety," he said.
A partnership between hospital and supplier
The deal was struck with Al Naghi Medical, which is working alongside Intuitive, the maker of the da Vinci systems, to bring the technology into the region. Mona Qaisi of Al Naghi Medical said the collaboration goes beyond a single transaction. "Al Naghi Medical is proud to partner with Intuitive and American Hospital Dubai to introduce the da Vinci 5 system. This collaboration reflects a shared mission to advance robotic surgery in the Middle East and to support institutions that are setting new standards in surgical care," she said.
For now, American Hospital Dubai's move places it ahead of other GCC hospitals in adopting the latest generation of robotic surgical technology, adding to a robotic surgery programme that already includes two other da Vinci systems used for procedures across the hospital.
Reported by Khaleej Times.