KUWAIT CITY, May 2: The American Surgical Association has selected Dr. Waddah Al-Rifai, a prominent Kuwaiti physician and Chair of the Department of Surgery at Creighton University, to participate in the 2025 Scientific Exchange Program with the European Surgical Association. Dr. Al-Rifai is the first surgeon from Kuwait, the Gulf region, and the Arab world to receive this distinction.

In remarks to the Kuwait News Agency, Dr. Al-Rifai expressed deep pride in being honored during the 31st annual meeting of the European Society of Surgery, currently taking place in Geneva, Switzerland. The conference opened on Friday and will conclude on Saturday.

Dr. Al-Rifai credited the achievement to the unwavering support extended to the medical sector by His Highness the Amir Sheikh Meshaal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, His Highness the Crown Prince Sheikh Sabah Al-Khaled Al-Hamad Al-Sabah, and His Highness the Prime Minister Sheikh Ahmad Al-Abdullah Al-Sabah.

He noted that his selection reflects the growing international recognition of Kuwaiti medical expertise and underscores the country’s respected status in the global healthcare community.

Reaffirming his commitment to serving Kuwait and humanity, Dr. Al-Rifai emphasized the importance of scientific collaboration and knowledge exchange with international medical institutions as a key factor in advancing the nation's healthcare system.

He also expressed sincere gratitude to the American Surgical Association for the honor, highlighting his eagerness to contribute meaningfully to the program and to further elevate Kuwait’s presence on the international medical stage.