Al-Noor Hospitals is well-positioned for future growth. With its London listing and low debt levels, the group is now better able to finance its expansion in the UAE and the wider GCC in the coming years. There is strong demand for its services and this will continue in the decades ahead.

The rise in obesity levels and chronic diseases linked to unhealthy lifestyles, such as diabetes, means the need for hospital and outpatient services will continue to grow in the region, ensuring a steady flow of revenue for private healthcare providers.

The key challenge facing the group is the competitive nature of the healthcare market in Abu Dhabi, which has intensified in recent years.

Not only does Al-Noor Hospitals have to compete with other hospitals, but it also faces competition from standalone clinics and outpatient centres. It will have to ensure it maintains a good reputation and high levels of patient satisfaction to keep ahead of its competitors. Furthermore, the group will have to ensure it can offer attractive packages to hire and retain the best qualified doctors and nurses. Recruitment of medical staff is a severe challenge in the GCC.

Acquisitions will pose a new challenge for Al-Noor Hospitals. It will have to assimilate staff and adjust operational strategies to fit its business model and standard of service delivery.