INSEAD’s vibrant network of accomplished professionals offers a wealth of inspiration and shared ambition.
Naji Alamuddin

Naji Alamuddin

Naji Alamuddin
Nationality/Passport: American Year of graduation: 2026 Current Role: Consultant Endocrinologist, Diabetologist, and Obesity Specialist

Could you share something unexpected or a fun fact about yourself?

I went skydiving with my daughter to celebrate her 13th birthday. It was one of the most exhilarating experiences of my life and an unforgettable moment we shared together. While it’s not something I’d typically do, it reflects my love for stepping out of my comfort zone and creating meaningful memories.

Tell us about yourself and how you got to where you are today, both professionally and personally.

I’m a physician, board-certified in endocrinology, obesity medicine, and internal medicine. My career is rooted in patient care, teaching, and driving innovation in healthcare systems. Currently, I lead the internal medicine department at a tertiary care hospital (King Hamad University Hospital) and serve as deputy head of a medical school (RCSI Bahrain). 

Balancing leadership roles with patient care and mentoring has been a fulfilling challenge. What drives me is the desire to learn, grow, and make a lasting impact—whether it’s improving patient outcomes, shaping the next generation of medical professionals, or rethinking how we deliver and teach healthcare. 

What led you to decide to pursue an Executive MBA, and why did you choose INSEAD in particular?

As my leadership responsibilities in medical education and healthcare administration grew, I realised I needed to expand beyond my clinical expertise. Today’s healthcare challenges demand not just medical knowledge but strategic leadership and innovative thinking. 

I chose INSEAD because of its global reach, collaborative spirit, and focus on cross-industry innovation. The programme’s diversity and rigorous curriculum felt like the perfect fit for my aspirations to reimagine healthcare systems and education. Moreover, INSEAD’s vibrant network of accomplished professionals offers a wealth of inspiration and shared ambition.

How would you describe your experience so far?

In a word: transformative. It’s reshaped how I think, approach challenges, and even prioritise my time.

For the first time in my career, I’ve put an “out of office” notice on my email and silenced my phone during classes—it’s that immersive. The insights, energy, and camaraderie from my classmates and professors have been incredible. Beyond professional collaboration, I’ve found a network of lifelong friends who inspire me daily.

What advice would you give to someone who might be interested in pursuing an INSEAD programme? 

Do it—but only if you're ready to give it your all. The EMBA is an intense, rewarding journey that requires focus, commitment, and the courage to step outside your comfort zone. The more you invest in the experience, the greater the rewards you'll reap. It’s an opportunity to transform not only your career but also how you see the world and your role in it.