Soliman Fakeeh

Soliman Abdul Qader Fakeeh was a renowned Saudi physician and entrepreneur, known not only for his medical expertise but also his extensive humanitarian efforts. His distinguished career was notably marked by the establishment of Dr. Soliman Fakeeh Hospital in Jeddah, regarded as a benchmark in healthcare across the Arab world and beyond.

Through decades of dedicated service, he shaped the future of healthcare in Saudi Arabia and inspired countless professionals in the medical domain.

At Arageek, we take pride in highlighting inspiring figures whose stories leave lasting impacts. Through Dr. Soliman Fakeeh’s profound commitment to medicine and humanity, he transformed healthcare in Saudi Arabia, leaving behind a legacy cherished today and honored continually through the hospital bearing his name.

Born in 1932, in Mecca’s historic Al-Sulaymaniyah district—the very year Saudi Arabia was officially unified—Dr. Soliman Fakeeh emerged from a family long rooted in commerce and enterprise. While his family tradition leaned heavily toward business, young Soliman envisioned a different path.

In 1948, he graduated from the prestigious Preparatory School for Missions, a bold step that marked the beginning of his journey beyond borders. He soon traveled to Egypt, where he pursued his medical studies at the renowned Qasr Al-Ainy Faculty of Medicine at Cairo University, earning his medical degree with honors in 1957.

Determined to go further, he completed his postgraduate diploma in internal medicine at Ain Shams University, setting a national milestone by becoming Saudi Arabia’s first-ever specialist in internal medicine—a title that would define the trajectory of modern healthcare in the Kingdom.

Soliman Fakeeh was married to Khadija Al-Attar, and together they raised three children: Mazen, who followed in his father’s footsteps and became a physician holding membership in the Royal College of Physicians in London, and Manal, a physician, along with Ammar.

Dr. Soliman Fakeeh passed away on September 10, 2014, at the age of 82. His death was deeply mourned, both within Saudi Arabia and internationally. In keeping with tradition and honoring his wishes, he was laid to rest in his hometown Mecca. Following his passing, his son Mazen succeeded him, ensuring the continued legacy and vision at Dr. Soliman Fakeeh Hospital.

Soliman Fakeeh’s medical and administrative career was marked truly by remarkable achievements, such as:

Upon returning from Egypt, Dr. Soliman Fakeeh embarked on a groundbreaking medical journey by establishing Saudi Arabia’s first internal medicine clinic in Mecca in 1961. Within just six months, his exceptional skill and dedication earned him the role of Director at Ajyad Central Hospital, quickly followed by leadership positions at Mecca’s Maternity Hospital. His rise was swift and well-earned.

Driven by a clear vision for healthcare in the Kingdom, he was appointed Deputy Director General of Health Affairs in Mecca, and later became Director General for the Western Region. However, in 1978, Dr. Fakeeh made a bold decision to step down from his official role—choosing instead to devote himself fully to his private medical practice and the creation of the hospital he had long dreamed of building in Jeddah.

🏥 Building a Legacy: The Birth of Dr. Soliman Fakeeh Hospital

With meticulous planning and a hands-on approach, Dr. Fakeeh laid the foundations for what would become one of the Middle East’s most respected private hospitals. He personally oversaw every aspect—from technical systems to administrative frameworks—ensuring that the institution reflected his unwavering standards of excellence. Over time, the hospital grew into a regional benchmark for quality care and innovation.

🤝 A Humanitarian at Heart

Beyond his roles as a physician and hospital founder, Dr. Fakeeh was revered for his deep humanitarian values. He routinely provided free treatment and vital medications to underprivileged communities, and extended medical aid to Palestinians during times of conflict—acts of generosity that earned him admiration across the Arab world.

🌍 A Global Voice for Regional Progress

Dr. Fakeeh was a regular speaker at major international medical conferences, where his insights contributed to shaping the future of healthcare in the region. Despite the growing responsibilities that came with his success, he remained dedicated to service, combining global engagement with local compassion until his final days.