Samih Darwazah

Samih Darwazah

Samih Darwazah (1930 – 15 May 2015) was a pioneering figure in the global pharmaceutical industry, best known for founding Hikma Pharmaceuticals, a multinational pharmaceutical company. Born in Nablus, Palestine, Darwazah moved to Jordan where he would later establish Hikma Pharmaceuticals in 1978. His vision was to create a company that could bring modern medicine to the Middle East and other parts of the world where access to high-quality pharmaceuticals was limited. Darwazah's leadership and innovative approach to pharmaceuticals played a crucial role in transforming Hikma into a global entity that today manufactures a wide range of generic and in-licensed pharmaceutical products.

Early Life and Education

Samih Darwazah was born in Nablus, Palestine, in 1930. He pursued his higher education in the field of pharmacy, earning his degree from the American University of Beirut (AUB) in Lebanon. His education laid the foundation for his future endeavors in the pharmaceutical industry.

Career

After completing his education, Darwazah began his career in the pharmaceutical sector. His experiences across various roles in the industry provided him with the insights and expertise necessary to start his own company. In 1978, he founded Hikma Pharmaceuticals in Amman, Jordan. The company started as a small venture, focusing on the manufacture of non-patented generic pharmaceuticals. Under Darwazah's leadership, Hikma expanded its operations beyond Jordan, establishing a presence in the United States, Europe, the Middle East, and North Africa.

Darwazah's commitment to quality and innovation led Hikma to become one of the first pharmaceutical companies in the region to receive U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approval for its manufacturing facilities. This milestone was pivotal in enabling the company to export its products to stringent markets, including the United States.

Legacy

Samih Darwazah's legacy is marked by his contributions to the pharmaceutical industry and his role in improving access to quality healthcare in underserved markets. His work has had a lasting impact, with Hikma Pharmaceuticals continuing to thrive as a testament to his vision and leadership. Darwazah also served as a role model for entrepreneurs in the Middle East, demonstrating the potential for success in the global marketplace.

Darwazah passed away on 15 May 2015, leaving behind a company that not only stands as a leader in the pharmaceutical industry but also as a beacon of innovation and quality in healthcare. His life's work continues to inspire future generations of entrepreneurs and healthcare professionals.

Personal Life

Samih Darwazah was not only a successful businessman but also a family man, deeply committed to his wife and children. His personal values of integrity, hard work, and dedication were evident in both his professional and personal life.

See Also

• Pharmaceutical industry
• Generic drug
• Entrepreneurship