Dr. Ammar Safar

Snapshot Highlights

• American Board-Certified Ophthalmologist specializing in vitreoretinal diseases and surgery.
• Chief Medical Officer of Moorfields Eye Hospitals in the UAE.
• Adjunct Professor of Ophthalmology at Mohammad Bin Rashed University.
• Recipient of The Martha Wood Bentley endowed Chair of Ophthalmology.
• Fellow of the American College of Surgeons.

Professional Experience & Expertise

Dr. Ammar Safar is a distinguished American Board-Certified Ophthalmologist with a profound specialization in complex vitreoretinal diseases and surgical interventions. His extensive career highlights include a significant tenure as the Chief Medical Officer for Moorfields Eye Hospitals across the United Arab Emirates, where he provides strategic leadership. Furthermore, he contributes to academic advancement as an Adjunct Professor of Ophthalmology at Mohammad Bin Rashed University, shaping the next generation of eye care professionals.

Dr. Safar’s expertise is particularly recognized in the advancement of retinal vascular diseases, including novel management strategies for diabetic retinopathy and vascular occlusive disorders, as well as pioneering new approaches for treating exudative macular degeneration. His pioneering research has led to critical discoveries that have advanced patient care.

Distinguished Academic and Clinical Journey

Dr. Safar’s medical education began in Syria, followed by a rigorous postgraduate training program in Ophthalmology at Georgetown University in Washington, DC, where he achieved the esteemed position of Chief Resident. His commitment to specialized knowledge is further demonstrated by a distinguished 2-year fellowship in Vitreoretinal Diseases & Surgery at the University of Texas, Southwestern Medical Center in Dallas, Texas. Prior to relocating to the UAE, Dr. Safar held influential academic positions in the United States, including Assistant and Associate Professor and Director of Vitreoretinal Surgery at the Department of Ophthalmology, Jones Eye Institute, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences. His leadership experience in the US also encompassed serving as President of Medical Staff at a prominent private general hospital in Dubai.

Research, Publications, and Professional Affiliations

A dedicated researcher, Dr. Safar has actively participated in clinical trials and has a significant publication record in areas such as diabetic retinopathy and age-related eye diseases. His contributions have led to notable advances in retinal vascular diseases and macular degeneration, offering new hope and treatment options for patients.

Dr. Safar’s standing in the medical community is underscored by numerous honorary awards, including being the inaugural recipient of The Martha Wood Bentley endowed Chair of Ophthalmology at the University of Arkansas. He is an active and respected member of numerous prestigious professional associations, reflecting his commitment to advancing ophthalmology. These include the American Academy of Ophthalmology, the American Society of Retina Specialists, the European Society of Retina Specialists, the American Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgery, The Association for Research In Vision and Ophthalmology (ARVO), the Arab-American Medical Association, and Research to Prevent Blindness. His fellowship with the American College of Surgeons further solidifies his commitment to surgical excellence and patient care.

Languages

Dr. Safar is fluent in English, Arabic, and French, facilitating communication with a diverse patient population.