Burjeel Holdings’ Alkalma debuts four mental health centres in UAE and KSA, expanding regional access to compassionate, prevention-driven care.
Abu Dhabi: Burjeel Holdings, in partnership with global value-based care pioneer Keralty, has announced the launch of a regional mental health platform under its new brand, Alkalma. The strategic integration of four premier mental health centres across the UAE and Saudi Arabia marks a significant milestone in addressing the region’s care gap with accessible, compassionate, and prevention-driven services.
Alkalma now includes specialist facilities at Dubai’s City Walk and Healthcare City, Abu Dhabi’s Al Bateen, and Riyadh’s King Abdullah Financial District. Previously operated under Aspris Healthcare, the centres are now aligned with Alkalma’s vision to build a value-based, outcomes-focused mental health ecosystem. Together, they offer a combined annual consultation capacity of approximately 90,000.
Mental health conditions affect nearly 20% of the population annually but receive under 5% of total healthcare spending across the region. Alkalma’s integrated model seeks to close this disparity, improving access to therapy formats including individual, family, and group sessions. These centres will form the cornerstone of Alkalma’s regional mental health strategy.
John Sunil, CEO of Burjeel Holdings, noted, “Integrating these centres into our ecosystem marks a pivotal step in realising our vision for a regional mental health platform rooted in Alkalma’s values of clinical excellence and inclusivity.”
This launch forms the first phase of a multi-year expansion across the GCC. Future plans include the rollout of a digital mental-health platform and additional centres in underserved communities. The operational blueprint mirrors Keralty’s international model that currently supports over 500,000 individuals across nine countries, including the United States.
Dr Emilio Herrera, CEO of Alkalma, emphasised: “There is no health without mental health. Our launch in the UAE and Saudi Arabia reflects our deep commitment to national wellbeing priorities, scientific rigour, and inclusive care.”
Facilitated by Shorooq Partners, the integration marks a significant private equity-backed push into mental health infrastructure. Founding Partner Mahmoud Adi stated, “We are proud to support a platform that redefines mental healthcare access and outcomes in the region.”
With its robust foundation, Alkalma is poised to reshape the regional mental health landscape—delivering measurable impact across patients, providers, and policymakers.
