MUSCAT : More than 120 healthcare professionals from across the Sultanate gathered in Muscat this week for AMR Update 2025, a one-day scientific meeting highlighting Oman’s growing push to combat antimicrobial resistance (AMR) through early detection, improved diagnostics and stronger stewardship practices.

Organised by Alfarsi National Enterprises and held at the Radisson Collection Hotel, Hormuz Grand, the event brought together infection-control specialists, microbiologists, clinical pathologists, academics and laboratory leaders, reflecting rising national concern over drug-resistant infections.

Held under the theme “Detect Early, Treat Early,” the conference featured expert presentations on national AMR trends, advances in rapid diagnostics and strategies to strengthen surveillance systems. Sessions focused on detecting critical resistance mechanisms such as ESBL, MCR-1 and carbapenemase production, alongside discussions on Candida auris, an emerging pathogen of increasing global concern.

Chairing the event, Dr. Amina Al Jardani, AMR Coordinator and Consultant at the Central Public Health Laboratories, called for sustained collaboration among clinicians, laboratories and policymakers, stressing that rapid detection and timely clinical decisions remain central to preserving the effectiveness of life-saving antimicrobials.

Participants heard insights from Dr. Azza Al Rashdi on Oman’s AMR surveillance findings and national achievements, Dr. Meher Rizvi of Sultan Qaboos University on advances in diagnostic technologies, and Dr. Wafa Al Tamtami from the Medical City for Military and Security Services on integrating rapid testing into clinical workflows. International expertise was provided by Dr. Ahmad Ibrahim of NG Biotech, who highlighted next-generation rapid test kits designed to speed up treatment decisions.

A hands-on workshop on rapid AMR detection offered participants practical exposure to point-of-care tools and interpretation methods, drawing strong engagement from laboratory professionals and clinicians.

Speaking on the sidelines, Saju George, Managing Director of Alfarsi National Enterprises, said the strong participation reflected Oman’s growing commitment to tackling AMR through innovation, education and cross-sector collaboration.

With antimicrobial resistance recognised globally as a major public health threat, the event marked another step in supporting national efforts to preserve antibiotic effectiveness and improve patient outcomes across Oman’s healthcare system.

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