Oman’s Aster Al Raffah Hospitals & Clinics launches an advanced robotic rehabilitation centre

Aster Al Raffah Hospitals & Clinics has just thrown open the doors to its Walk Again Advanced Robotic Rehabilitation Centre in Al Ghubra, Muscat. It's the first of its kind in Oman, and it promises to rewrite what recovery can look like — not just for locals, but for patients across the GCC and even Africa.

"This world-class facility in Oman... will bring advanced rehabilitation care closer to home," said His Excellency Dr. Ahmed bin Salim Al-Mandhari at the launch, underscoring the nation's ambitions to become a regional health innovation hub.

How does it work?

So, what makes this place so special? In short, it's tech doing what tech does best — amplifying human potential.

Here's a peek into the magic under the hood:

• Cyberdyne HAL: A robotic exoskeleton that reads faint signals from muscles and translates them into movement. It helps patients literally get back on their feet.
• Recoverix Pro: A brain-computer interface that rebuilds neural connections for stroke and MS patients — think of it as mind-over-matter, but backed by science.
• Vibramoov: A vibration therapy system that stimulates natural walking patterns and mobility.
• Luna EMG and Meissa OT: Systems focused on neuro rehab and upper limb recovery.

Beyond gadgets, the facility delivers Deep Brain Stimulation, Vagus Nerve Stimulation, and Functional Electrical Stimulation, all tuned to boost muscle control, coordination, and — most importantly — independence.

Dr. Ali Al Balushi, Consultant Vascular Neurologist and Neurointerventionalist, leads a top-tier team across Neurology, Orthopedics, Spine, and Rheumatology. Together, they tailor treatments to individual needs using a multidisciplinary approach rooted in neuroplasticity — the brain's innate ability to rewire itself after trauma.

Why does it matter?

Let's face it: when people think of cutting-edge healthcare, Muscat hasn't traditionally been on the map. That's about to change.

"This facility... will undoubtedly transform the lives of patients by offering hope and enabling recovery that was once thought impossible," said Dr. Azad Moopen, Chairman of Aster DM Healthcare. And he's not exaggerating. For folks battling strokes, spinal cord injuries, or degenerative diseases, this isn't just about therapy — it's about reclaiming a life.

Here's what that means in practice:

• No more flying halfway around the world for world-class care.
• Patients, young and old, can stay close to their families while recovering.
• The centre's mix of robotic precision and compassionate care shortens the road to recovery.

The context

Oman isn't going solo here. This centre is the fruit of a powerhouse collaboration between Aster DM Healthcare and Walk Again India — a neuro-rehab leader known for blending robotics with bespoke therapy.

"We are committed to leveraging state-of-the-art technology and global expertise," said Dr. Sachin Kandhari, CEO of Walk Again India. With this centre, their reach now extends into the heart of the Middle East.

This isn't just about care — it's also about research, innovation, and building a healthcare ecosystem. The centre plans to actively engage in conferences, medical education, and global partnerships. It's part of Oman's bigger vision: become a medical destination that draws not just admiration but footfall from across continents.

As Alisha Moopen, Managing Director & Group CEO of Aster DM Healthcare, puts it: "At Aster, we believe in transforming lives through innovation and compassion." With this facility, Oman steps onto the world stage — one rehabilitated step at a time.