Riyadh : In a region marked by rapid change and intense competition across sectors, the concept of a “workplace” has evolved into a defining pillar for building resilient, sustainable institutions. Nowhere is this more vital than in healthcare—where success hinges not only on the quality of medical services, but equally on empowering the people behind them: doctors, nurses, and administrators.
Organizations that place people at the heart of their mission—and foster cultures rooted in trust, respect, and belonging—are proving to be the most adaptable and enduring in today’s demanding environment.
Among the most striking examples of this philosophy is Aster DM Healthcare, which was recently certified as a Great Place to Work® in four Gulf countries: Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Oman, and Qatar. The accolade comes from the global authority Great Place to Work®, and is based entirely on employee feedback regarding trust in leadership, fairness of policies, sense of belonging, and inclusivity in the workplace.
38 Years of Commitment
Since its founding 38 years ago by Dr. Azad Moopen, Aster has pursued a clear vision: people come first—not as a slogan, but as a deeply embedded corporate ethos. Today, the group employs over 15,000 people, 76% of whom indicated high satisfaction, calling Aster “one of the best places to work.”
Aster’s success isn’t measured solely in business metrics, but in the core values it upholds daily: Passion, Compassion, Integrity, Excellence, Unity, and Respect. These values are echoed in the group’s signature promise—“We’ll Treat You Well”—which applies not only to patients, but to every person working under its umbrella. The result is a workplace that feels like family—supportive, ambitious, and committed to professional growth.
Voices From Within
Alisha Moopen, CEO of Aster DM Group, spoke proudly of the recognition:
“Our employees are our greatest strength. We’ve spent years building a culture that embraces humanity before all else. This global recognition reflects an inspiring work environment that supports and empowers every individual.”
In Saudi Arabia, where Aster’s operations have expanded significantly, Mohammed Al Shammari, CEO of Aster Hospitals and Clinics KSA, shared his thoughts:
“We believe a positive work environment directly reflects on the quality of healthcare. We’re not just building facilities—we’re shaping leaders and unlocking human potential. We continue to invest in our people and empower Saudi talent to drive our humanitarian mission and meet the evolving goals of the Kingdom’s health sector.”
Empowerment at the Core
What sets Aster apart is not only its safe and inclusive atmosphere, but its active employee empowerment model. Through open communication policies, skills development programs, mental health support, and peer networks, the group creates a workplace where employees feel like true partners—not just task-doers. This approach boosts both satisfaction and long-term loyalty.
As Jacob Jacob, Group Chief Human Resources Officer, puts it:
“True competitive advantage today isn’t about technology or buildings—it’s about people. We’re building a culture based on trust and growth. When employees are valued and empowered, they perform better. We are fully committed to their professional and personal development.”
A Global Seal of Approval
The recognition from Great Place to Work® is especially meaningful because it’s awarded based on internal feedback, not external metrics. As Sarah Lewis-Colin, VP of Global Recognition at the organization, noted:
“This certification is given only to institutions that demonstrate genuine commitment to their people. Aster is one of the few that succeed in this. Our real-time evaluation confirms it’s among the best places to work—an ideal environment for growth and achievement.”
Saudi Market Expansion
Aster’s footprint in the Saudi market currently includes Aster Sanad Hospital in Riyadh, 16 pharmacies, and the digital platform myAster, which allows users to book appointments, receive consultations, and manage prescriptions online.
With ambitious growth plans, Aster is investing SAR 1 billion over the next three years to open 30 new medical centres, 5 hospitals, and 180 pharmacies, while creating around 4,900 new jobs for Saudi professionals—supporting national Saudization goals and strengthening the Kingdom’s healthcare ecosystem.
These efforts were recently recognized on the global stage, as five Aster hospitals were listed among the World’s Best Hospitals 2025 by Newsweek and Statista. Aster Sanad Hospital ranked 38th in Saudi Arabia, underscoring the group’s commitment to excellence, innovation, and patient-centered care.
Healing Begins Within
Aster firmly believes that quality healthcare begins on the inside—with the caregivers themselves. As Saudi Arabia redefines quality of life and professional development through Vision 2030, Aster stands as a model of how a human-centred, sustainable workplace is not only possible—but essential.
Today, Aster operates an integrated network of 15 hospitals, 121 clinics, and 306 pharmacies across the Gulf and Jordan, under leading brands such as Aster, Medcare, and Access. It remains dedicated to its founding promise: “We’ll Treat You Well.”
