Across the Middle East, infection control professionals are working quietly but relentlessly behind the scenes, protecting patients, staff, and communities from risks that rarely make headlines—until something goes wrong. These individuals are the infection control champions: clinicians, epidemiologists, nurses, and hygiene leaders who turn guidelines into practice, data into decisions, and vigilance into safer outcomes. 

In a region defined by rapid healthcare expansion, diverse workforces, and complex patient flows, their role has never been more critical. From preventing healthcare-associated infections to strengthening hand hygiene compliance and outbreak preparedness, these champions are shaping safer hospitals every day. This article shines a spotlight on the people driving infection prevention forward in the Middle East, celebrating their leadership, resilience, and commitment to making healthcare environments not just world-class, but truly safe. 

Dr. Ahmad Baggashi, President of MENA FHSS, Founder of SSIPC, IPC & Health Education, KSA 

Personal Motivation  

What first drew you to infection control, and was there a personal experience that shaped your commitment to protecting patients and healthcare workers?  

My commitment to infection control developed through sustained engagement with the operational realities of healthcare rather than a single defining event. Working across clinical services, laboratory environments, and professional education, I repeatedly observed how   preventable risks became normalised under pressure.My experience in decontamination   science, healthcare information technology, and course coordination exposed systemic gaps between policy, practice, and real-world constraints. These observations shaped my motivation to pursue infection prevention as both a scientific and ethical responsibility, centred on protecting patients and healthcare workers through robust systems rather than individual blame. 

A Moment That Stayed With You  

Can you share a moment from your career—perhaps during an outbreak or crisis—that deeply affected you and reaffirmed why your work in infection prevention matters?  

A defining moment occurred during an outbreak investigation involving a multidrug-resistant organism in a clinical setting. While initial audits suggested compliance, deeper environmental sampling and workflow analysis revealed weaknesses in reprocessing practices and staff training. The outbreak was eventually contained, but the emotional impact on staff—many of whom felt personally responsible was profound. This experience reinforced that infection prevention is not solely about technical controls, but about leadership, communication, and creating psychologically safe environments where concerns can be raised early. 

Invisible Wins  

Infection control successes often go unnoticed because “nothing happens.” How do you stay motivated in a role where impact is measured by what is prevented rather than what is seen?  

Infection control successes are often invisible, measured by the absence of harm rather than observable outcomes. I remain motivated through surveillance data, trend analysis, and the sustained reduction of risk indicators following targeted interventions and education programmes I have helped design and deliver. Prevention may be unseen, but it is measurable and meaningful. 

Legacy & Inspiration  

When colleagues and young healthcare professionals look at your journey, what do you hope they learn—not just about infection control, but about leadership, resilience, and purpose?  

I hope my journey demonstrates that effective leadership in infection control requires resilience, intellectual rigor, and moral courage. For emerging professionals, I want to model a commitment to evidence-based practice, reflective learning, and the confidence to challenge unsafe norms in pursuit of safer healthcare. 

Ali Al Jabri, Head of Department CSSD, Royal Hospital (MOH), Vice President of MENA-FHSS, Vice President of MENA HSPA Chapter Personal Motivation 

What first drew you to infection control, and was there a personal experience that shaped your commitment to protecting patients and healthcare workers? 

Sterilization as the Heart of Infection Control 

My entry into the field of surgical instrument sterilization was a “beautiful coincidence” that made me realize the deep and fundamental link between sterilization and infection control. Our work in sterilization is the cornerstone and the true guarantee for preventing infection transmission. 

A Moment That Stayed with You 

Can you share a moment from your career—perhaps during an outbreak or crisis—that deeply affected you and reaffirmed why your work in infection prevention matters? 

My commitment was solidified when I stood inside an operating room and saw the instruments I had processed touching a patient’s body. I realized I wasn’t just handling equipment, but holding human lives, driving me to continuously improve and break the chain of infection before it starts. 

Invisible Wins 

Infection control successes often go unnoticed because “nothing happens.” How do you stay motivated in a role where impact is measured by what is prevented rather than what is seen? 

Several milestones confirmed I am on the right path, such as excelling in my studies and ranking first, and delivering my first lecture abroad. However, the true test was the COVID-19 pandemic, where we faced unprecedented pressure to control infection sources. Our team's unity proved that disciplined teamwork is the rock upon which all crises’ shatter. 

Legacy & Inspiration 

When colleagues and young healthcare professionals look at your journey, what do you hope they learn—not just about infection control, but about leadership, resilience, and purpose? 

In our profession, success is measured by what “does not happen” i.e.  the infections prevented—which is a source of silent pride. My motivation stems from the certainty that our hidden efforts in sterilization rooms are the safe bridge for patient recovery, free from the risks of healthcare acquired infections Our success in overcoming challenges is the essence of health safety 

My message to the next generation: Never stop” Success is a tree that requires care and patience before it bears fruit. I hope they learn that sterilization and infection control are moral trust. Treat your team like family and stay composed, for true achievement lies in sincerity within the smallest details. 

Jabir Al Sooti- Head of Infection Control Programs at Oman MoH, Oman 

Personal Motivation 

What first drew you to infection control, and was there a personal experience that shaped your commitment to protecting patients and healthcare workers? 

I was first drawn to infection control because I realized how much patient safety depends on the small, everyday practices that are often overlooked. Early in my career, I saw how a single gap in infection prevention could affect not only patients, but also healthcare workers and families. That experience shaped my commitment to making healthcare environments safer. 

A Moment That Stayed with You 

Can you share a moment from your career—perhaps during an outbreak or crisis—that deeply affected you and reaffirmed why your work in infection prevention matters? 

One of the most unforgettable moments in my career was being involved in outbreak investigations where rapid action was critical. Seeing the fear and uncertainty during such crises reminded me that infection prevention is not just technical work—it is about protecting lives and restoring trust in healthcare systems.

Invisible Wins 

Infection control successes often go unnoticed because “nothing happens.” How do you stay motivated in a role where impact is measured by what is prevented rather than what is seen? 

Infection control is a field where success is often silent. When infections are prevented, there is no headline, but that “nothing happened” is the greatest achievement. I stay motivated by knowing that every policy, audit, and training session contributes to safer care, even if the impact is not immediately visible. 

Legacy & Inspiration 

When colleagues and young healthcare professionals look at your journey, what do you hope they learn—not just about infection control, but about leadership, resilience, and purpose? 
I hope young professionals learn that infection prevention is a journey of leadership, resilience, and purpose. It requires continuous learning, teamwork, and courage to advocate for safety. My goal is to inspire others to see this work as more than a job—it is a responsibility to protect patients, support healthcare workers, and strengthen healthcare quality for the future.

Jacob Oommen, Chief Operating Officer, Badr Al Samaa Group of Hospitals, Oman 
Personal Motivation 

What first drew you to infection control, and was there a personal experience that shaped your commitment to protecting patients and healthcare workers? 

At Badr Al Samaa Group of Hospitals Oman, where we care for over 10,000 patients daily, I learned the true essence of infection control not in a boardroom, but from our housekeeping staff and nurses. Watching them perform their duties with precision taught me that safety relies on a "connected chain." I found beauty in this chain, where every link is strong and no one compromises on the details. 

A Moment That Stayed with You 

Can you share a moment from your career—perhaps during an outbreak or crisis—that deeply affected you and reaffirmed why your work in infection prevention matters? 

This unity was tested during the COVID-19 pandemic. As the private hospital group treating the maximum number of patients and administering the most vaccinations in Oman, we were under immense pressure. Yet, seeing our 2,000 + employees strictly maintain our MOH, JCI and ACHSI standards during the crisis was a defining moment. It proved that our strength lies in our collective discipline. 

Invisible Wins 

Infection control successes often go unnoticed because “nothing happens.” How do you stay motivated in a role where impact is measured by what is prevented rather than what is seen? 

In this field, success is defined by what doesn't happen. I stay motivated by witnessing that uncompromising chain of command in action. Every day without an outbreak is a silent victory for the protocols we hold dear. 

Legacy & Inspiration 

When colleagues and young healthcare professionals look at your journey, what do you hope they learn—not just about infection control, but about leadership, resilience, and purpose? 
To future leaders, I hope my journey highlights that leadership is not about standing alone at the top. All our success at Badr Al Samaa belongs not only to our visionary leaders but also to the unsung heroes, the staff who do their part perfectly every day. They are the ones who truly protect our patients, our staff and the community.

Dr. Nazia Khanum, Consultant Infection control and Clinical Microbiologist, Head of Quality, Accreditation and Education team in Infection Control, King Saud Medical City  
 
Personal Motivation 

What first drew you to infection control, and was there a personal experience that shaped your commitment to protecting patients and healthcare workers? 

I began my journey in infection control 15 years ago as a new graduate, not yet aware of the profound impact prevention has compared to treatment. Early in my career, I cared for a pediatric patient who developed a preventable central line–associated bloodstream infection. What stayed with me was not only the child’s prolonged illness but the fear and exhaustion in the parents’ eyes—families who trusted the system and were suddenly facing uncertainty and undeserved guilt. No treatment could undo the harm or ease their suffering. That moment transformed how I viewed infection prevention. I realized it is not merely about policies or checklists; it is about protecting patients, healthcare workers, and the families who rely on us. From then on, prevention became not just my profession, but my purpose. 

A Moment That Stayed with You 

Can you share a moment from your career—perhaps during an outbreak or crisis—that deeply affected you and reaffirmed why your work in infection prevention matters? 
I remember standing in clinical areas during the MERS outbreak, answering the anxious questions of healthcare workers worried for their patients and for their own families. Years later, during COVID19, those fears resurfaced on an even larger scale, with rapidly changing protocols, limited resources, and immense pressure to make the right decisions. In those moments, my role expanded beyond guidelines—I needed to listen, support, and lead with clarity and calm. Watching teams follow prevention measures, stay safe, and continue caring for patients reinforced a powerful truth: prevention is not only technical work; it is leadership grounded in responsibility and trust. 

Invisible Wins 

Infection control successes often go unnoticed because “nothing happens.” How do you stay motivated in a role where impact is measured by what is prevented rather than what is seen? 
Infection prevention success is often silent—measured in infections that never happened, families never separated, and staff who return home safely. That silence keeps me motivated. 

Legacy & Inspiration 
When colleagues and young healthcare professionals look at your journey, what do you hope they learn—not just about infection control, but about leadership, resilience, and purpose? 
I hope my journey inspires future professionals to see infection control as meaningful, impactful work that builds courage, resilience, and compassion—work that saves lives beyond hospital walls 

Noel S. Gonzaga, BSMT, MPH, AMT, RMT, CIC, Environmental Infection Control Expert, Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Ministry of Health, HQ, Oman 

Personal Motivation 

What first drew you to infection control, and was there a personal experience that shaped your commitment to protecting patients and healthcare workers? 
My commitment to infection prevention and control is deeply personal. My father died long years ago from septicemia caused by antimicrobial-resistant organisms, linked to the improper use of antibiotics for his deep wounds. That loss shaped my purpose. With a background in clinical laboratory science, microbiology, and public health, his cause of death transformed my career path into advocacy. Later, my work in the Department of Infection Prevention and Control at King Fahad Medical City in Saudi Arabia further strengthened my passion and resolve before continuing my journey in Ministry of Health, HQ, Oman. 

A Moment That Stayed with You 

Can you share a moment from your career—perhaps during an outbreak or crisis—that deeply affected you and reaffirmed why your work in infection prevention matters? 

Many moments have reaffirmed the importance of my work, but none more than the early months of the COVID-19 pandemic. At a time when the world was still learning how the virus spread, fear and uncertainty were everywhere—including my own anxiety. Despite this, I was deployed across hospitals, investigating outbreaks, training healthcare workers on proper PPE use, and strengthening environmental cleaning practices. We even investigated non-COVID outbreaks in COVID field hospital when attention was focused almost entirely on the pandemic. I knowingly placed myself at risk, trusting my training and skills to protect myself while protecting others. 

Invisible Wins 

Infection control successes often go unnoticed because “nothing happens.” How do you stay motivated in a role where impact is measured by what is prevented rather than what is seen? 

Infection control successes are often invisible, but they are deeply fulfilling. Seeing hospital-acquired infections decline and patients go home safely and healed reminds me why this work matters—especially as MDROs continue to threaten vulnerable patients 

Legacy & Inspiration 

When colleagues and young healthcare professionals look at your journey, what do you hope they learn—not just about infection control, but about leadership, resilience, and purpose? 
I hope my journey shows younger professionals that leadership is built on integrity, accountability, resilience, and purpose. I also hope they learn resilience. Infection prevention comes with challenges, uncertainty, and sometimes limited recognition, but every obstacle is an opportunity to improve systems and protect lives. Staying committed despite fear, fatigue, or resistance is what strengthens both the individual and the program. 

Most importantly, I want them to understand purpose. When you are clear about why you do this work, it gives meaning and direction. My purpose has always been to protect patients, healthcare workers, and the community, while sharing knowledge and empowering others.  

Pradeep Ratnagiri, Chief Operating Office, Shifa hospital, Oman 

Personal Motivation 

What first drew you to infection control, and was there a personal experience that shaped your commitment to protecting patients and healthcare workers? 
With over 21 years of experience in hospital leadership and operations, my commitment to infection control grew from firsthand exposure to how vulnerable healthcare systems can be. Early in my career, I saw how preventable infections could compromise patient outcomes, staff morale, and hospital sustainability. 

A Moment That Stayed with You 

Can you share a moment from your career—perhaps during an outbreak or crisis—that deeply affected you and reaffirmed why your work in infection prevention matters? 

The COVID-19 outbreak was the most defining crisis of my career. Beyond treating patients, the most critical challenge was safeguarding nurses, doctors, and support staff. I clearly remember telling my leadership team that if we failed to protect our frontline workforce, the hospital itself would shut down—regardless of bed capacity or equipment. Watching teams continue to work with confidence during extreme uncertainty reinforced the vital role of infection prevention in operational continuity. 

Invisible Wins 

Infection control successes often go unnoticed because “nothing happens.” How do you stay motivated in a role where impact is measured by what is prevented rather than what is seen? 

Infection control success is often measured by what does not happen—no outbreak, no staff shortage, no panic. I stay motivated by monitoring compliance trends, staff confidence levels, and system resilience. When healthcare workers feel safe coming to work, that is the most meaningful outcome.  

Legacy & Inspiration 

When colleagues and young healthcare professionals look at your journey, what do you hope they learn—not just about infection control, but about leadership, resilience, and purpose? 
I hope future healthcare leaders understand that infection control is not just a clinical function but a leadership responsibility. Protecting people quietly is one of healthcare’s greatest achievements. 

Remya Venugopalan, Director of Operations, International Modern Hospital, UAE 

Personal Motivation  

What first drew you to infection control, and was there a personal experience that shaped your commitment to protecting patients and healthcare workers?  

I was first drawn to infection control early in my quality and patient safety career, when I realized that the most advanced technology and clinical expertise can be undermined by a single preventable infection. Working in International modern hospital (IMH) in Dubai where patients come from diverse backgrounds and acuity levels, I saw how infection prevention is not just a clinical function but a moral responsibility. A personal turning point was witnessing a vulnerable patient develop a healthcare-associated infection that prolonged their stay.  

A Moment That Stayed With You  

Can you share a moment from your career—perhaps during an outbreak or crisis—that deeply affected you and reaffirmed why your work in infection prevention matters?  

During the COVID-19 pandemic, I stood at the intersection of operations and infection prevention. One moment that stays with me was ensuring uninterrupted care while protecting frontline staff amid uncertainty and fear. Seeing teams follow protocols meticulously & support one another reaffirmed why this work matters. 

Invisible Wins  

Infection control successes often go unnoticed because “nothing happens.” How do you stay motivated in a role where impact is measured by what is prevented rather than what is seen?  

Infection control is unique because success means “nothing happened.” I stay motivated by data, surveillance trends, and knowing that every prevented infection represents a patient who healed faster and a staff member who went home safe and also saves money. Prevention may be invisible, but its impact is profound. 

Legacy & Inspiration  

When colleagues and young healthcare professionals look at your journey, what do you hope they learn—not just about infection control, but about leadership, resilience, and purpose?  

I hope others learn that leadership in infection prevention requires resilience, humility, and purpose. It’s about building trust, staying science-driven, and remembering that behind every policy is a human life depending on us to get it right, every single day. 

Shazia Irum (RN, MSc, MBA, CIC, CPHQ, FAPIC), IPC Specialist- Saudi Arabia Ambassador CBIC, KSA 

Personal Motivation  

What first drew you to infection control, and was there a personal experience that shaped your commitment to protecting patients and healthcare workers?  

What first drew me to infection control was witnessing how a single, overlooked practice could place both patients and healthcare workers at risk. Early in my career, I observed a preventable exposure incident that transformed my perspective from following protocols to leading change. That moment shaped my lifelong commitment to building safer systems. 

A Moment That Stayed with You  
Can you share a moment from your career—perhaps during an outbreak or crisis—that deeply affected you and reaffirmed why your work in infection prevention matters?  

During a sudden dialysis unit outbreak, I watched fear ripple through patients and staff alike, turning every alarm and unanswered question into a moment of uncertainty. I stepped forward to lead with calm, evidence-based action, coordinating teams, reinforcing protocols, and transforming anxiety into purpose. Within days, we contained the risk and rebuilt confidence. The moment a patient quietly thanked our team for “giving us safety, not just treatment” reminded me that infection prevention is more than policy—it is protection, dignity, trust, and hope made visible through leadership.  

Invisible Wins  

Infection control successes often go unnoticed because “nothing happens.” How do you stay motivated in a role where impact is measured by what is prevented rather than what is seen?  

In infection prevention, my greatest victories are silent ones. I stay motivated by knowing that every correctly washed hand, every sterilized instrument, and every strengthened protocol represents a life protected and a family spared from harm. While the world may not applaud what never happens, I find purpose in the unseen chain of safety I help build. 

Legacy & Inspiration  

When colleagues and young healthcare professionals look at your journey, what do you hope they learn—not just about infection control, but about leadership, resilience, and purpose?  

I hope they learn that infection control is not just a profession, but a promise—to lead with integrity, to remain resilient in uncertainty, and to serve with purpose beyond recognition. I want them to see that true leadership is shaped in quiet moments of accountability, compassion, and courage, where every decision, no matter how small, can influence culture, strengthen teams, and protect lives.  

Sravan Kumar, Quality and Patient Safety Manager, Mediclinic City Hospital, DHCC  

Personal Motivation  
What first drew you to infection control, and was there a personal experience that shaped your commitment to protecting patients and healthcare workers?  

My journey into infection control began early in my quality career, when I observed many patients developing healthcareassociated infections such as surgical site and central line–associated bloodstream infections. I saw how these preventable infections prolonged hospital stays and increased costs for both patients and hospitals. What stood out to me was that simple, evidencebased practices could significantly reduce these risks. Ultimately, keeping patients safe is a responsibility that must never be taken lightly. 

A Moment That Stayed With You  
Can you share a moment from your career—perhaps during an outbreak or crisis—that deeply affected you and reaffirmed why your work in infection prevention matters?  

Early in my career, I learned that many healthcare workers genuinely believe they are doing the right thing and not placing anyone at risk. During an FMEA (Failure mode effect analysis) on the transfer of deceased patients by ambulance, I discovered that staff did not fully understand the concept of crosscontamination and felt their practices were safe. This gap between intention and actual risk was eyeopening. Similarly, despite hand hygiene being one of the most effective infection prevention measures, compliance remains a challenge.  

Invisible Wins  
Infection control successes often go unnoticed because “nothing happens.” How do you stay motivated in a role where impact is measured by what is prevented rather than what is seen?  

In infection control, success often means that nothing happens, and that is our greatest achievement. I stay motivated by focusing on the patients who never develop infections and the healthcare workers who remain protected. When nothing happens, we are in fact telling a positive story about harm that was prevented. That story can be demonstrated through patient days saved, avoided negative patient experiences, and reduced healthcare costs.   

Legacy & Inspiration  
When colleagues and young healthcare professionals look at your journey, what do you hope they learn—not just about infection control, but about leadership, resilience, and purpose?  

I hope colleagues and young professionals learn that meaningful leadership is grounded in integrity, resilience, and compassion. Infection control demands constant vigilance, but it is ultimately driven by purpose. Most importantly, it means doing the right thing, even when no one is watching.