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The Saudi Ministry of Health has announced the launch of the first edition of BIO Middle East, a regional event dedicated entirely to biotechnology. 

The event will take place from May 11 to 13, 2026, colocated with CPHI Middle East at the Riyadh Exhibition and Convention Center.

A first-of-its-kind for the region, the event reinforces the Kingdom’s leadership in this fast-growing sector and underscores its commitment to becoming a regional and global hub for pharmaceuticals and life sciences.

As part of a global series of landmark BIO gatherings that bring together leaders, innovators, and investors from across the world, BIO Middle East will extend this world-class platform for partnership and innovation to the region for the very first time.

The BIO Middle East exhibition and conference will feature high-level panel discussions with global industry leaders, company showcases of the latest biotech innovations, specialized workshops, and networking opportunities connecting investors and researchers to strengthen global partnerships and exchange knowledge in this vital field.

The event is expected to stimulate job creation within the Kingdom’s health sector, attract foreign investment that supports the national economy, and promote the development of innovative medical solutions that serve both local and regional communities — ultimately enhancing quality of life and advancing the transformative goals of Vision 2030.

Minister of Health Fahad bin Abdulrahman Aljalajel said: “The launch of BIO Middle East marks a significant milestone as the Kingdom establishes itself as a global hub for biotechnology and life sciences innovation.”

He added: “This event embodies Vision 2030’s commitment to building an advanced health ecosystem grounded in scientific research and international partnerships, with the aim of developing innovative solutions that serve our citizens, the region and contribute to humanity worldwide.

“In ��������, we are committed to creating an enabling environment that brings together human talent, advanced digital infrastructure, and strategic investments to drive growth in this critical sector, enhance quality of life, and tackle global health and environmental challenges.”

Mike Champion, CEO, Tahaluf, said: “BIO Middle East is an exceptional platform that brings together global biotech leaders and decision-makers to accelerate innovation and expand international collaboration in the vital healthcare sector.”

He added: “We at Tahaluf are proud to partner with the Saudi Ministry of Health to organize this landmark event. We are confident that it will catalyze the growth of the biopharmaceutical industry across the Middle East and empower entrepreneurs and scientists to make a meaningful impact.

Hosting this event in the Kingdom is a highly strategic step, given its ambitious vision, advanced infrastructure, and genuine commitment to innovation and scientific research in healthcare.”

Anna Chrisman, president of life sciences at Informa, said that the event aligns with global transformations in the pharmaceutical and biotech industries. She said: “BIO Middle East will bring together innovators, deal makers, regulators, manufacturers, researchers, and investors under one roof to collaboratively design a roadmap for advancement and breakthrough innovation in this critical sector.

For more than three decades, EBD has successfully facilitated strategic partnerships between biotech innovators, investors, and pharmaceutical companies across Europe, North America, and Asia. We are thrilled to join forces with Tahaluf on this landmark event that will catalyze biotech innovation throughout the Middle East region.”

The Kingdom’s hosting of this global event aligns with its Vision 2030 program and the National Biotech Strategy, under the wise leadership of King Salman and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, which aims to diversify the economy and position the Kingdom as a global hub for biotechnology and life sciences innovation.

It places strong emphasis on advancing the health sector and its related industries, fostering choice, quality and building an integrated national ecosystem that brings together human talent, cutting-edge technology, and regulatory excellence. This event is the result of a strategic partnership between Tahaluf and EBD Group (a subsidiary of Informa), to create a transformative platform that drives pharmaceutical and biotech growth across the region.

The launch of BIO Middle East reflects the Kingdom’s substantial progress in building a globally competitive biotech ecosystem. �������� has emerged as a key player in shaping the future of the sector, supported by flexible regulatory frameworks, advanced digital infrastructure, and growing investments in research, education, and biomanufacturing. The event provides an ideal platform to showcase these achievements and foster international partnerships that fuel innovation for the benefit of humanity.

In celebration of the 95th Saudi National Day and as a tribute to the Kingdom’s heritage and unity, LuLu Hypermarket is set to attempt a Guinness World Record with the creation of the world's largest shattered glass artwork on Sept. 20, from 4:30 p.m. at Alkhobar New Corniche. The 3-meter x 3-meter glass panel will feature the official symbol issued by the General Entertainment Authority, reflecting pride, unity, and societal support. Crafted with the support of Khobar Municipality and Unilever (Comfort), the artwork will be gifted to the municipality and is expected to become a new landmark in the Eastern Province.

The masterpiece will be created by Aseel Al-Mughlouth, a celebrated Saudi visual artist renowned for his innovative shattered glass paintings. Combining engineering expertise with artistic vision, Al-Mughlouth transforms broken glass into stunning creations admired across �������� and the Arab world.

Spotlight on Saudi-made products

As part of the National Day celebrations, LuLu stores across the Kingdom are hosting festive activities from Sept. 17 to 23, offering exclusive deals, special promotions, and family-friendly cultural experiences. Shoppers can enjoy unbeatable prices across all categories, with a special emphasis on Saudi-made products, while participating in the joyous spirit of the nation. A midnight shopping event will take place on Sept. 22, from 6 p.m. to 1 a.m., featuring exciting offers and exclusive deals for night-time shoppers.

Google Pay for hassle-free shopping 

To enhance convenience and innovation, LuLu has also introduced Google Pay across all stores in ��������, making it the first retailer in the country to offer this fast, easy, and secure payment option.

This year, LuLu’s National Day festivities promise a memorable blend of art, shopping, culture, and community spirit, uniting customers in celebrating the Kingdom’s proud heritage while looking forward with creativity and innovation.