National Day reflects Saudi investment in people and knowledge, says Alfaisal University official

Khaled Manaa Al-Qattan, Vice President for Financial and Administrative Affairs and Dean of the College of Medicine at Alfaisal University in Riyadh, said that National Day embodies the depth of the Saudi national character, rooted in pride and dignity. He noted that the Kingdom’s scientific and research renaissance stems from a national legacy that has made knowledge, education, and innovation strategic priorities since the era of King Abdulaziz bin Abdulrahman Al Saud.

In a statement marking National Day, Al-Qattan said: “We celebrate this glorious occasion under the theme ‘Our Pride is in Our Nature,’ as we witness the Kingdom’s vision and the ambition of its people at their finest. The wise leadership has established an advanced scientific infrastructure and a climate that encourages innovation, enabling national academic institutions—foremost among them Alfaisal University—to strengthen their academic and research standing and compete in the quality of medical education and scientific research.”

Al-Qattan added that the momentum Saudi Arabia is experiencing in hosting international medical events and forums—most notably the Global Health Exhibition and conferences specializing in medical technologies and artificial intelligence—reflects Riyadh’s growing status as a center for health innovation, knowledge exchange, and shaping the future of healthcare.

He pointed out that this international presence goes beyond hosting scientific gatherings, extending to building partnerships, exchanging expertise, transferring and localizing knowledge, developing sustainable health solutions, and supporting research that contributes to disease prevention and improved diagnosis and treatment. This, he said, enhances Saudi Arabia’s scientific and humanitarian contributions to health both locally and globally.

Al-Qattan stressed that achievements in medical education, research, and health innovation reflect the scale of investment in people and knowledge, placing greater responsibility on academic institutions to prepare generations of doctors and researchers capable of sustaining this progress and advancing a health system based on science and innovation.

He concluded by extending his highest congratulations to King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Crown Prince and Prime Minister Mohammed bin Salman, and the Saudi people on this cherished occasion. Al-Qattan affirmed that investing in young minds and a passion for academic excellence will remain fundamental pillars for the Kingdom’s ongoing scientific and developmental journey, ensuring Saudi Arabia’s pride endures through the dedication and ambition of its people.