Riyadh Global Medical Biotech Summit concludes with deals worth over $1.3bn

The fourth edition of the Riyadh Global Medical Biotechnology Summit 2026 concluded today, having witnessed more than 40 agreements, initiatives, and announcements. The summit featured partnerships, programs, and projects with an estimated value exceeding 5 billion riyals (SAR), aimed at localizing biotechnology and enhancing its health and economic impact.

The summit, held under the patronage of Crown Prince and Prime Minister Mohammed bin Salman, was inaugurated by Minister of the National Guard Prince Abdullah bin Bandar. Taking place from September 14 to 16, it was organized by the Health Affairs of the Ministry of National Guard, King Saud bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences, and King Abdullah International Medical Research Center, in strategic partnership with the Ministry of Investment and the Future Investment Initiative Foundation.

Dr. Bandar bin Abdulmohsen Al-Knawy, CEO of Health Affairs at the Ministry of National Guard and chairman of the summit, expressed his gratitude to Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman for his generous patronage, and to Minister Prince Abdullah bin Bandar for his support and close follow-up. He emphasized that the summit contributes to achieving the goals of the National Biotechnology Strategy by linking scientific research with investment, developing partnerships, and building national capabilities.

The summit drew delegations and experts from more than 57 countries, with over 200 speakers including leaders, experts, and researchers. The total number of visitors and registrants exceeded 15,000. The program featured more than 80 sessions, in addition to seven high-level executive sessions that addressed topics such as artificial intelligence, genomics, vaccines, biomanufacturing, advanced therapies, investment, and talent development.

The Life Sciences Innovation Forum attracted five specialized investment funds, which expressed readiness to invest more than $120 million in promising opportunities and companies. Meanwhile, the Next Generation Biotech Forum focused on empowering early-career researchers and scientists.

The accompanying exhibition featured more than 120 sponsors and exhibitors, including international pavilions from Spain, China, Japan, Germany, the United States, and South Korea, spanning over 6,000 square meters. The exhibition showcased the latest innovations and technologies, facilitating connections among research institutions, companies, and investors to strengthen partnerships and support the growth of the biotechnology sector in Saudi Arabia.