JHAH Al-Hasa: First Baby-Friendly Hospital in Al-Hasa
January 01, 2026
AHHC is the first private hospital in Al Hasa to win a World Health Organization and UNICEF-certified breastfeeding accreditation from the Ministry of Health.
Johns Hopkins Aramco Healthcare (JHAH)’s Al Hasa Health Center (AHHC) has been recognized for its commitment to breastfeeding by winning a Baby-Friendly Hospital accreditation.
AHHC is the first private hospital in Al Hasa to receive the accreditation, which is awarded to select hospitals that meet strict criteria laid down by the World Health Organization and UNICEF.
The Baby-Friendly Hospital accreditation is awarded by the Saudi Ministry of Health after a hospital opens itself up to a series of inspections. Hospitals must demonstrate that they have taken specific steps to instill a culture of breastfeeding among mothers and staff by promoting breastfeeding and educating parents on the benefits.
Dr. Mohammed Al Ghamdi, Chief of the Southern Area at JHAH, said: “Achieving the Baby-Friendly Hospital accreditation is a milestone we are proud of. It reflects our commitment to providing a nurturing, safe, and evidence-based environment for mothers and newborns. This recognition reinforces our dedication to raising the standards of care in the Southern Area and ensuring every family receives the highest quality support at every step of their journey.”
In November last year, JHAH Dhahran became the first private hospital in the Eastern Province, and the second private hospital in Saudi Arabia, to receive the Baby-Friendly Hospital accreditation.
The World Health Organization and UNICEF launched the Baby-Friendly Hospital initiative in 1991 to improve global breastfeeding rates. Breastfeeding strengthens the mother-infant bond, reduces the risk of chronic disease, and offers long-term maternal health benefits such as cutting the risk of cancer. Exclusive breastfeeding is recommended for a baby’s first six months.