Saudi Arabia to Host Major Life Sciences Summit in 2026

Riyadh to Welcome Global Industry Leaders

Saudi Arabia is set to strengthen its position in the global life sciences sector as CPHI Middle East and BIO Middle East headline their inaugural joint summit in 2026.

The events will take place from 11–13 May 2026 at the Riyadh Exhibition and Convention Centre. Held under the patronage of the Ministry of Health, the co-located gatherings aim to establish Riyadh as a regional hub for pharmaceutical, biotechnology and scientific collaboration.

Global Industry Giants Confirmed

Leading international companies have confirmed their participation, including:

• Johnson & Johnson

• Eli Lilly

• Novartis

• Sinovac

• Fakeeh Care Group

• M42

• Boston Oncology

Organisers say the integration of CPHI Middle East and BIO Middle East will highlight Saudi Arabia’s rapid growth in pharmaceutical and biotech manufacturing, aligned with Vision 2030 and the National Biotechnology Strategy.

Market Growth and Investment Outlook

Saudi Arabia’s pharmaceutical market is projected to grow from USD 11.8 billion in 2024 to USD 15.6 billion by 2030.

Under Vision 2030, biotechnology is expected to contribute over USD 34 billion to the Kingdom’s non-oil GDP by 2040, accounting for around 3% of the total economy.

The growth reflects strong national investment, improved regulatory frameworks and expanding international partnerships.

Largest Life Sciences Gathering in the Region

According to organisers Tahaluf, the 2026 editions are expected to attract:

• More than 60,000 visitors

• 1,000 exhibiting brands

• Over 400 speakers

• Participants from 100+ countries

The three-day summit will feature strategic panel discussions, technical sessions, investment forums, scientific workshops and ministerial engagements.

For the first time in the Middle East, the BIO partneringONE® platform will be introduced, enabling one-to-one meetings to accelerate licensing deals, collaborations and market entry strategies.