Arab Health 2025: UAE-based Aster to expand pharmacy retail and digital presence

Dubai: On the inaugural day of Arab Health 2025 on Monday, UAE-based Aster DM Healthcare Group announced Aster Pharmacy’s retail and digital presence and said its expansion plans to Saudi Arabia is on track.

Inaugurating the Aster Pharmacy booth, Dr Azad Moopen, founder chairman, Aster DM Healthcare, said: “Arab Health’s 50th edition is a testament to the UAE’s remarkable achievements in revolutionising the healthcare sector. We commend the UAE Government for its visionary leadership and unwavering commitment to innovation, medical tourism, and shaping a world-class healthcare ecosystem."

He added: "As one of the long-standing participants of Arab Health, we have witnessed the platform emerge as a global showcase of healthcare excellence. At Aster DM Healthcare, we are proud to support the UAE’s Vision 2031 and its efforts to create a healthier and more connected future."

More pharmacies

Speaking to Gulf News, N S Balasubramanian, CEO of Aster Retail, said Aster Pharmacy has over 300 outlets and 2,025 pharmacists across the UAE and GCC. With its recent joint venture with Al Hokair Holding Group in Saudi Arabia, Aster aims to start more than 180 pharmacies in the Kingdom in five years, said Balasubramanian.

“We are 14 pharmacies as of now, and we will be 20 by March. The plan is to open about 186 pharmacies in the next five years,” he told Gulf News.

$250 million for expansions

The group has set around $250 million for Saudi Arabia expansions, which include some acquisitions of health facilities as well.

He said Aster Pharmacy will also expand its digital presence in Saudi Arabia by launching its myAster app.

“Through myAster app, customers can get both prescription and wellness products delivered to their doorstep without having to visit a pharmacy and wait for insurance approvals there.”

The company had reduced the delivery time from within 90 minutes to ‘under 60 minutes’ in 40 pharmacies in Dubai. “We are going to expand that facility to other pharmacies,” he said.

“Even in Riyadh, we are trying to target in selected regions, to provide under 60 minutes delivery. The myAster launch in Saudi will be officially done in February,” he added.