Varian Expands into the Middle East

Varian Medical Systems announced Wednesday its expansion into the Middle East with the creation of a Saudi Arabian subsidiary, Varian Medical Systems Arabia. The new company was launched in partnership with the El Seif Development Group.

The firm will have 35 sales, service and administrative employees overseeing oncology systems, imaging components and particle therapy — the three segments comprising Varian’s business. A spare parts depot will be located in Riyadh.

VMS Arabia plans to work with the Saudi Arabian Ministry of Health, as well as healthcare providers in the military and private sectors and independent organizations, says Mazyad Al Utaibi, managing director.

The first Varian linear accelerator in Saudi Arabia was installed more than 30 years ago. The devicemaker also received a contract to outfit the Middle East’s first proton therapy center in Riyadh.

The Palo Alto, Calif. company has an estimated 70 sales and support offices globally. — Jason Scott