PureHealth to acquire UK’s Circle Health Group for Dhs4.4bn

UAE healthcare firm PureHealth has agreed to acquire Circle Health Group, the UK’s largest independent operator of hospitals, in a deal valued at $1.2bn (Dhs4.41bn).

The acquisition marks PureHealth’s foray into the UK and is part of the healthcare group’s global expansion programme, which includes acquisitions in the US and entry in other global markets.

The deal gives the healthcare firm 100 per cent of Circle Health Group’s portfolio, which includes specialities such as orthopaedics, oncology, cardiothoracic surgery, ophthalmology, neurosurgery and general surgery.

“This acquisition marks an important milestone in our journey towards creating a global healthcare network which revolutionises patient care. Our mission at PureHealth is to drive scientific innovation to unlock longevity and greater quality of life for humankind,” said Farhan Malik, managing director and Group CEO of PureHealth.

The transaction also gives the Abu Dhabi-based healthcare services provider access to new state-of-the-art hospitals that Circle Health Group built recently, including the UK’s first purpose-built state-of-the-art rehabilitation hospital.

PureHealth Acquires the UK’s largest private hospital group for $1.2 billion. pic.twitter.com/Q6ypJphV8O

— PureHealth (@PureHealthae) August 28, 2023

The Abu Dhabi-based healthcare group seeks to invest in scientific innovation and healthcare infrastructure within all its assets, giving patients access to the best possible medical care with the highest international quality standards.

“Patients in the UAE and the UK will benefit from the acquisition, both through the diversity of choice in healthcare provision, an expanded network of medical professionals and expertise combined with knowledge sharing that will be developed,” the healthcare firm said in a statement.

PureHealth’s growing portfolio

Circle Health Group joins a growing list of healthcare providers that make up PureHealth companies, including the Abu Dhabi Health Services Company (SEHA), The National Health Insurance Company (Daman), Tamouh Healthcare, Yas Clinic Group and Abu Dhabi Stem Cell Center.

The group completed its more than Dhs1.8bn equity investment in US healthcare provider Ardent Health Services in May, a deal that gives the healthcare firm board observer rights, although not a seat on the board of directors.

“PureHealth, as the region’s largest healthcare group, is well-positioned to make significant contributions to the improvement of healthcare systems and access to world-class medical services in the UAE and beyond,” Malik said.

Founded in 2004, Circle Health Group comprises more than 8,200 employees and 6,500 consultants, working in more than 60 specialties, in more than 50 hospitals across the UK. The group boasts more than two million visits per annum and drives over Dhs4.78bn in revenue.

Leveraging its global relationships and international reputation, the group seeks to build on this legacy with the acquisition of Circle Health Group. The integrated healthcare platform also struck a strategic partnership with Israel’s Sheba Medical Center in June.

The two entities agreed to closely collaborate on joint clinical research projects, promote the use of advanced technology in healthcare, expand genetic research initiatives and boost health tourism in both countries.

The alliance with Sheba Medical will also focus on education and training. Circle Health Group, UK, UAE, healthcare, PureHealth

Read: PureHealth inks strategic MoU with Israel’s Sheba Medical Center