King Fahad University Hospital from Immam Abdulrhmani Ben Faisal University, Saudi Arabia
Dr. Abdullah Kalaf Al-Hwiesh is a highly accomplished Saudi nephrologist and internal medicine specialist, recognized for his significant contributions to clinical nephrology, dialysis innovation, and academic medicine. Born in 1967 in Turief, Saudi Arabia, Dr. Al-Hwiesh has built a stellar medical and academic career with over two decades of experience in teaching, research, and patient care. Currently serving as a Professor at the College of Medicine, University of Dammam, he also holds a consultant position at King Fahd Hospital of the University in Al Khobar. His research has consistently focused on peritoneal dialysis, catheter techniques, metabolic complications in renal failure, and nephrology-related clinical issues. He has published extensively in international journals and has been instrumental in improving peritoneal dialysis methods in Saudi Arabia through innovations such as the Saudi Peritoneal Dialysis Catheter. Dr. Al-Hwiesh is well-regarded for combining academic rigor with practical clinical solutions that enhance patient outcomes. Fluent in both Arabic and English, he bridges clinical expertise and academic leadership. His contributions to nephrology and internal medicine have earned him respect both nationally and internationally. With a commitment to advancing renal care in the region, Dr. Al-Hwiesh stands as a role model for clinician-scientists in Saudi Arabia and beyond.
Professional Profile
Education
Dr. Abdullah Kalaf Al-Hwiesh possesses a distinguished academic background in medicine with focused specialization in nephrology and internal medicine. His formal medical education and training began with a medical internship at King Fahd Hospital of the University in Al Khobar, Saudi Arabia in 1995, followed by a comprehensive residency in internal medicine at the same institution from 1996 to 2001. In 2001, he achieved dual certification in internal medicine from two prestigious boards: the Saudi Board and the Arab Board for Medical Specializations, the latter issued in Damascus, Syria. Demonstrating a keen interest in nephrology, Dr. Al-Hwiesh pursued a highly regarded Fellowship in Nephrology at Queen’s University in Ontario, Canada, completing it in 2004. This international fellowship provided him with advanced training in renal disease management and dialysis therapies, which later shaped his clinical and research focus. His academic journey not only reflects a strong commitment to lifelong learning but also highlights his pursuit of excellence across both local and international contexts. Through his rigorous training, Dr. Al-Hwiesh acquired a robust foundation in patient-centered nephrology, clinical investigation, and academic scholarship—elements that continue to define his impactful career in medicine.
Professional Experience
Dr. Abdullah Kalaf Al-Hwiesh boasts an extensive and progressive career in academic medicine and nephrology, rooted in over two decades of professional dedication. He currently holds the rank of Professor at the College of Medicine, University of Dammam in Saudi Arabia, a role he has fulfilled since April 2014. Prior to this, he advanced through academic positions, serving as Associate Professor from 2010 to 2013 and Assistant Professor from 2005 to 2009. Alongside his academic role, he has long served as a Consultant Internist and Nephrologist at King Fahd Hospital of the University in Al Khobar, where he has contributed significantly to clinical education and patient care. Earlier in his career, Dr. Al-Hwiesh completed a nephrology fellowship at Queen’s University in Canada between 2002 and 2004, which laid the groundwork for his clinical expertise in dialysis and kidney disease management. His formative years included a rigorous internal medicine residency and internship at King Fahd Hospital, reflecting his enduring commitment to Saudi Arabia’s healthcare system. Through academic leadership, clinical excellence, and patient advocacy, Dr. Al-Hwiesh has become a pillar of the nephrology community in Saudi Arabia and a key contributor to the development of renal care in the Gulf region.
Research Interests
Dr. Abdullah Kalaf Al-Hwiesh’s research interests are deeply rooted in nephrology, with a strong emphasis on dialysis innovation, catheter technology, and the management of metabolic complications in end-stage renal disease. His scholarly focus includes the development and evaluation of improved peritoneal dialysis techniques, particularly the Saudi Peritoneal Dialysis Catheter, which has significantly minimized catheter migration and infections. Dr. Al-Hwiesh has also explored the physiological and biochemical aspects of peritoneal and hemodialysis, including topics like peritoneal membrane surface area, dialysis adequacy, metabolic acidosis, and lactic acidosis in dialysis patients. His work often addresses real-world challenges in renal care, such as infection prevention, catheter insertion techniques, and peritoneal dialysis access. Furthermore, he has demonstrated a strong interest in nephrology-related complications, such as calciphylaxis, rhabdomyolysis-induced acute kidney injury, and hormonal imbalances in dialysis patients. With a translational approach to research, Dr. Al-Hwiesh seeks to bridge clinical gaps through innovative procedures and evidence-based protocols. His dedication to continuous improvement in nephrology has resulted in a prolific publication record and meaningful contributions to patient-centered research. Through his work, he not only enhances clinical outcomes but also advances global understanding of renal replacement therapies.
Research Skills
Dr. Abdullah Kalaf Al-Hwiesh possesses a robust and diversified research skill set that underpins his longstanding academic and clinical contributions to nephrology. His methodological expertise spans clinical trials, observational studies, and case series that address complex issues in dialysis and renal care. He is highly proficient in designing and conducting clinical research focused on catheter-related innovations, metabolic complications, and peritoneal dialysis techniques. Dr. Al-Hwiesh has a demonstrated ability to translate clinical observations into practical research questions, develop novel solutions, and analyze outcomes using appropriate biostatistical tools. His work reflects adeptness in qualitative and quantitative data analysis, systematic literature review, and scientific writing for peer-reviewed journals. He also excels in multidisciplinary collaboration, often working alongside surgeons, internists, and biomedical scientists to address renal challenges from multiple angles. As a lead author in numerous indexed publications, Dr. Al-Hwiesh is skilled in manuscript preparation, data presentation, and research dissemination. His technical skills include ultrasound-guided catheter insertion, nephrology procedural innovation, and evidence-based protocol development. His capacity to integrate research into clinical practice makes him a valuable contributor to the advancement of nephrology both in Saudi Arabia and internationally.
Awards and Honors
While specific formal awards are not detailed in public records, Dr. Abdullah Kalaf Al-Hwiesh’s prolific contributions to clinical nephrology and academic medicine signify a career deserving of prestigious recognition. His numerous peer-reviewed publications, often in leading nephrology journals such as Peritoneal Dialysis International, Saudi Journal of Kidney Diseases and Transplantation, and International Journal of Artificial Organs, are a testament to his sustained academic output and thought leadership. His pioneering development of the Saudi Peritoneal Dialysis Catheter and innovative catheter insertion techniques have had a tangible impact on patient care in Saudi Arabia and the broader nephrology community. These contributions reflect not only technical proficiency but also a deep commitment to addressing region-specific clinical challenges. As a long-standing faculty member at the University of Dammam and a practicing consultant, his mentorship and educational roles further amplify his professional distinction. Dr. Al-Hwiesh’s international training in Canada, coupled with his leadership in nephrology research, position him as a deserving candidate for national and regional excellence awards in research and medicine. His track record of innovation, publication, and clinical service speaks volumes, even in the absence of formally listed accolades.
Conclusion
Dr. Abdullah Kalaf Al-Hwiesh’s career represents a harmonious blend of academic scholarship, clinical excellence, and innovative research in nephrology. As a Professor of Internal Medicine and Consultant Nephrologist, his work has significantly shaped dialysis practice and education in Saudi Arabia. His commitment to improving patient outcomes through research-based innovations—most notably the development of specialized peritoneal dialysis catheters—demonstrates his problem-solving approach and practical mindset. With over 30 published articles in esteemed international journals, Dr. Al-Hwiesh has firmly established himself as a thought leader in renal medicine. His contributions extend beyond research, as he actively mentors students, collaborates across disciplines, and sets high standards in clinical care. Fluent in both Arabic and English, he serves as a bridge between local healthcare needs and global medical advancements. His professional journey from medical intern to esteemed professor is marked by a continuous pursuit of excellence and service. Dr. Al-Hwiesh’s impactful work in nephrology and internal medicine makes him a distinguished figure in Saudi Arabia’s medical landscape. His legacy is one of dedication, innovation, and a clear vision for advancing renal healthcare, making him an exemplary model for aspiring clinician-scientists.
Publications Top Notes
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Title: Not everything shining is gold: Strawberry can mimic hemoperitoneum
Authors: A.K. Al-Hwiesh, Abdullah Khalaf; A. Moaz Mohammed, Abdelgalil; A.A. Al-Hwiesh, Amani A.; R. Al-Hwiesh, Reema; N. Al-Audah, Nadia
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Title: A nephrologist dream of peritoneal dialysis catheter with zero migration: A multicenter prospective study
Authors: A.K. Al-Hwiesh, Abdullah Khalaf; I.S. Abdul-Rahman, Ibrahiem Saeed; J.C. Divino-Filho, José Carolino; Z. Almarri, Zahra; A.A. Al-Awal, Ayat A.
Journal: Therapeutic Apheresis and Dialysis
Year: 2024
Citations: 3
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Title: Patients’ awareness of their rights: an insight from a teaching hospital in Saudi Arabia
Authors: M. Mohammed, Madadin; R.G. Menezes, Ritesh G.; A.A. Almazrua, Abdulaziz A.; A.K. Al-Hwiesh, Abdullah Khalaf; M.S. Usman, Muhammad Shariq
Journal: Acta Biomedica de l’Ateneo Parmense
Year: 2023
Citations: 4
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Title: Peritoneal catheter insertion: combating barriers through policy change
Authors: V.K. Jha, Vivekanand K.; A.C. Abrahams, Alferso C.; A.K. Al-Hwiesh, Abdullah Khalaf; D.P. Ponce, Daniela Paz; J.C. Divino-Filho, José Carolino
Citations: 6