Dr. Rifai is a distinguished ophthalmologist. Born in Southampton, England, he graduated from Aleppo University’s Faculty of Medicine in 1989. He furthered his education with an internship at the University of Tennessee, a residency in ophthalmology at George Washington University, and a fellowship in vitreoretinal surgery at Louisiana State University.

As the owner and principal surgeon at the Retina Center of Pensacola in Florida, Dr. Rifai has established himself as a leading expert. He has built a fulfilling personal life, marked by 35 years of marriage to Rasha Rifai and fatherhood to four children. His children are thriving: Faysal is an internist at Advent Health in Orlando, Noor is an engineer in Chicago pursuing an MBA, and Fares is on the pre-med track at Florida State University.

Beyond his profession, Dr. Rifai enjoys reading, traveling, and family time. His commitment to service is evident through his involvement with the Syrian American Medical Society (SAMS), which he joined in 2007. Since 2017, he has held key leadership roles, including chairing the Jordan committee, serving on the society board, and serving as Treasurer. In April 2025, Dr. Rifai was elected President of SAMS, taking on new leadership responsibilities for the next two years.

“Our members serve with no expectation of reward — only the hope of healing. Now, it’s time to grow that hope into something lasting.”
— Dr. Aref Rifai