Major General Dr. Ketab Al-Otaibi (1943- 2024)

Fahdah Alokaily; Ali M. Albarrak

doi:10.15537/smj.2025.46.2.20241751

With profound sorrow, we announce the passing of Major General (Retired) Dr. Ketab Al-Otaibi, a distinguished figure in the Armed Forces Medical Services, who passed away on Tuesday, 8th October 2024. His life was a testament to courage, dedication, and unwavering resolve a legacy that will forever be remembered by all who knew him. Born in the desert near Afif, Major General Dr. Ketab bin Eid Al-Otaibi, then, moved to Riyadh, where he honed his skills, dedicating himself to both medicine and service to his country.

Dr. Al-Otaibi’s career was marked by his extraordinary contributions as a surgeon, military leader, and administrator. He skillfully combined his medical expertise with his leadership abilities, pioneering advancements in Armed Forces Medical Services and setting a high standard of excellence. He was not only a mentor but also a symbol of integrity, discipline, and commitment to both his country and his colleagues.

Humble beginnings and early determination

He started his life in the heart of the desert, tending sheep as a child and fighting ignorance from an early age. He overcame significant health challenges in his childhood, including a scorpion sting and whooping cough, treated through traditional remedies. These experiences ignited his ambition to become a distinguished doctor.

In 1372 AH (1952 CE), he joined the military academy, working as an officer by day and studying in the evenings, graduating in 1381 AH (1961 CE). He was later sent on a scholarship to Austria to study medicine, where he mastered German in addition to English and French language. During his studies, he worked as a translator and continued his academic journey until earning his doctorate.

Key milestones in his career

Upon returning to Saudi Arabia, he worked at the military hospital in Tabuk and was later sent to Germany under the directive of Prince Sultan bin Abdulaziz, may he rest in peace, to specialize in kidney and urology surgery. He achieved significant medical milestones, including being among the first Saudi doctors to participate in organ transplantation and introducing the kidney stone fragmentation device in the Kingdom. These accomplishments earned him the title of “Pioneer of Military Medicine in Saudi Arabia.”

Leadership and humanitarian contributions

Throughout his career, he held several prominent positions, including Director of the Military Hospital, Chief of Medical Staff, and Director of General Medical Services. He was renowned for his exceptional management skills, generosity, and noble character, maintaining close ties with patients and those in need. His dedication earned him an appointment as an advisor to the Minister of Defense, where he continued to serve his country until his passing.

As the Editorial Director of the Saudi Medical Journal, he was pivotal in guiding its development, maintaining its high standards, and fostering the growth of research. He was instrumental in the journal’s development over the years. His unwavering commitment to excellence, collaboration, and integrity helped elevate the journal, making it a respected resource for scholars around the world.

A lasting legacy

Dr. Ketab bin Eid Al-Otaibi’s life was an open book of dedication and achievement, inspiring all who crossed paths with him. His passing brought deep sorrow to his loved ones, and his legacy of service to the nation remains a source of pride and inspiration.

May Allah have mercy on Dr. Ketab Al-Otaibi, and may his lifelong contributions illuminate the path for future generations.

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