The event, held at the Riyadh Exhibition and Convention Center, was officially opened by Minister of Health Fahad Al-Jalajel.

Now in its eighth edition, the exhibition runs under the inspiring theme “Invest in Health,” bringing together visionaries, healthcare leaders, policymakers, and investors from across the world to explore the future of healthcare transformation.

Organized by the events company Tahaluf with the support of the Ministry of Health, the exhibition reflects Saudi Arabia’s commitment to advancing medical innovation, improving patient care, and fostering international collaboration in the health sector.

Over the years, the event has grown into one of the region’s most influential gatherings for the global health community, aligning perfectly with the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 objective of building a world-class healthcare system.

Minister Fahad Al-Jalajel expressed his pride in the event’s success and growing impact. “It is truly inspiring to witness how the Global Health Exhibition continues to expand each year,” he said.

“We are seeing remarkable growth not only in participation but also in partnerships and investments that are shaping the future of healthcare both locally and globally.”

He highlighted that in the previous edition, the exhibition generated SR55 billion ($14.66 billion) in investments. This year, partnerships and projects have already reached SR124 billion, with more expected as the exhibition continues.

In his opening remarks, the minister acknowledged the shared global challenges facing healthcare systems, including the increasing prevalence of chronic diseases, rising medical costs, and shortages in qualified healthcare professionals.

However, he emphasized that Saudi Arabia’s ongoing Health Transformation Program is effectively addressing these challenges through digital innovation, workforce development, and a strong focus on preventive care.

Al-Jalajel elaborated on how the Ministry of Health measures and maintains the quality of services in the Kingdom. “We assess healthcare quality through a wide range of indicators, including patient outcomes, satisfaction levels, and compliance with operational and health quality standards,” he explained.

“This data is continuously monitored through several specialized organizations such as the Facility Safety Program, the Saudi Patient Safety Center, the Council of Health Insurance, and the Saudi Health Council.”

These organizations ensure that healthcare practitioners, facilities, and medical equipment meet the highest safety and performance standards, often in coordination with the Saudi Food and Drug Authority.

The integrated approach highlights the Kingdom’s dedication to transparency, accountability, and excellence in healthcare delivery.

Among the most notable achievements announced during the event was Saudi Arabia’s success in reducing deaths from chronic diseases by 40 percent since 2017.

The country has also achieved a nearly 60 percent reduction in fatalities caused by traffic accidents since 2016, thanks to improved emergency response systems and awareness programs.

Furthermore, life expectancy in the Kingdom has risen significantly — from 74 years in 2016 to 79 years in 2025 — a clear reflection of better healthcare access and lifestyle changes encouraged by public health campaigns.

The exhibition also unveiled several groundbreaking initiatives designed to shape the next generation of healthcare services.

One of the most exciting developments is the AI Physician Experience, a digital innovation aimed at improving disease diagnosis and patient care through artificial intelligence.

The Ministry also announced plans for localizing vaccine manufacturing, in collaboration with leading global biopharmaceutical companies — a move that strengthens national health security and promotes self-sufficiency in medical production.

Another major highlight was the introduction of the Smart Health Coach, developed in partnership with Google through the Sehhaty application.

This digital platform combines AI-powered recommendations with personal health tracking, empowering individuals to take proactive steps toward better health.

The initiative aligns with the Kingdom’s broader digital transformation strategy, which aims to make healthcare more personalized, accessible, and efficient.

The Global Health Exhibition 2025 stands as a testament to Saudi Arabia’s unwavering commitment to building a healthier, more resilient society.

Through collaboration, innovation, and investment, the Kingdom continues to set new benchmarks in global healthcare excellence. As Minister Al-Jalajel emphasized, “Investing in health is not just about improving services — it is about investing in the future of humanity.”

Now in its eighth edition, the event has become a cornerstone for the Kingdom’s efforts to attract investment, foster innovation, and advance the strategic goals of Vision 2030.

The exhibition, held with the support of the Ministry of Health, will highlight Saudi Arabia’s commitment to enhancing healthcare quality, boosting the sector’s contribution to the economy, and establishing the Kingdom as a global hub for healthcare innovation and manufacturing.

Over the next decade, the Saudi healthcare industry is projected to grow significantly, from SR199 billion ($53 billion) in 2020 to SR318 billion by 2030, with private sector contributions expected to double to SR145 billion.

The Ministry of Health has emphasized its focus on creating a competitive investment environment, streamlining regulatory processes, and supporting innovation across critical areas such as biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, vaccine production, health tourism, digital health solutions, and artificial intelligence in healthcare.

These initiatives are designed to accelerate progress toward a self-sufficient, innovation-driven healthcare ecosystem in the Kingdom.

The Global Health Exhibition serves as a vital platform for connecting local and international stakeholders, showcasing the latest medical technologies, and facilitating high-value collaborations.

Last year’s edition generated investments exceeding SR50 billion, including key deals such as the SR4 billion pharmaceutical partnership between NUPCO, Novo Nordisk, and Sanofi, the SR5 billion expansion plan by Fakeeh Care Group, and acquisitions worth over SR4 billion by Dallah Healthcare.

Building on this momentum, the 2025 exhibition is expected to announce new agreements and collaborations in biotechnology, advanced medical technologies, AI-driven healthcare solutions, and digital health platforms.

These developments are expected to further strengthen Saudi Arabia’s position as a regional leader in medical innovation, research, and development, attracting global expertise and investment to the Kingdom.

Experts highlight that the exhibition not only provides a showcase for cutting-edge technology and services but also demonstrates the Kingdom’s commitment to Vision 2030 goals of improving healthcare outcomes, supporting economic diversification, and encouraging private sector growth.

By fostering partnerships in pharmaceuticals, biotech, and healthcare technologies, Saudi Arabia aims to reduce dependency on imports, enhance local manufacturing capabilities, and stimulate job creation in high-value sectors.

The Ministry of Health has also emphasized the role of the exhibition in promoting sustainable growth and innovation, particularly in fields like vaccine production, biotechnology research, digital health solutions, and AI-enabled healthcare tools.

These areas are expected to be central to the Kingdom’s long-term strategy of establishing a world-class healthcare ecosystem that combines technological innovation with high-quality patient care.

Stakeholders anticipate that the event will attract international investors, leading global healthcare companies, and innovative startups, creating opportunities for knowledge exchange, joint ventures, and technology transfer.

The exhibition is expected to highlight Saudi Arabia’s readiness to lead in medical research, biotechnology, and advanced healthcare solutions, reinforcing its role as a hub for global healthcare innovation.

As the Kingdom continues to implement initiatives aligned with Vision 2030, the Global Health Exhibition 2025 represents a critical platform for showcasing achievements, facilitating investment, and strengthening partnerships across the healthcare sector.

By leveraging new technologies, fostering collaboration, and expanding strategic partnerships, Saudi Arabia is well-positioned to enhance healthcare access, improve quality, and secure long-term sustainable growth.

In summary, the upcoming exhibition is set to be a landmark event for Saudi Arabia’s healthcare sector, underlining the Kingdom’s dedication to innovation, investment, and international collaboration.

The announcements and partnerships expected at the event will pave the way for a robust, self-sufficient, and technologically advanced healthcare ecosystem, reflecting Saudi Arabia’s ambition to lead in global healthcare innovation.

In a remarkable display of regional cooperation and innovation, Saudi Minister of Health Fahad Al-Jalajel welcomed Syrian Minister of Culture Mohammed Yassin Saleh at the Ministry of Health headquarters in Riyadh on Thursday.

The meeting highlighted the commitment of both nations to strengthen collaboration in the fields of health and culture, leveraging digital technologies and shared expertise to benefit citizens and promote overall well-being.

During the discussions, the ministers explored ways to integrate healthcare and cultural initiatives, emphasizing the importance of collaboration in promoting a healthy lifestyle and raising awareness about public health

. This cooperation reflects a broader vision of combining cultural and health resources to improve societal quality of life, with both nations committed to sharing best practices, knowledge, and innovative approaches in their respective fields.

A highlight of the visit was Minister Saleh’s tour of the Seha Virtual Hospital’s command and control center, one of the world’s largest facilities dedicated to remote healthcare services powered by advanced digital technologies and artificial intelligence. The virtual hospital represents a transformative approach to healthcare delivery, enabling patients in Syria to access specialized medical consultations and expert advice without geographical constraints.

This initiative not only bridges distances but also strengthens regional ties, demonstrating the power of digital solutions in improving healthcare access.

The virtual hospital has successfully facilitated seamless connectivity between Saudi healthcare professionals and the Syrian Ministry of Health, allowing for continuous communication and knowledge exchange.

By connecting health cadres across borders, the initiative ensures that Syrian patients and medical teams benefit from cutting-edge expertise and advanced healthcare practices. The integration of AI-driven solutions enhances diagnostic accuracy, streamlines consultations, and accelerates treatment processes, showcasing Saudi Arabia’s leadership in healthcare innovation.

Minister Al-Jalajel emphasized that such collaborations are vital for advancing health services in the region while fostering a culture of care and wellness. “Our partnership with Syria reflects the shared commitment of both nations to improve public health outcomes and leverage technology to make quality healthcare more accessible,” he noted.

This approach aligns with Saudi Arabia’s broader Vision 2030 objectives, which prioritize digital transformation, innovation, and the application of advanced technologies to enhance societal welfare.

Minister Saleh expressed appreciation for the opportunity to witness the capabilities of the Seha Virtual Hospital and highlighted the benefits of exchanging knowledge and expertise. “The collaboration between our ministries demonstrates how cultural and healthcare initiatives can intersect to serve humanity,” he said.

By observing the advanced digital infrastructure, Syrian officials gained valuable insights into effective remote healthcare management and the integration of technology into health services.

The partnership between Saudi Arabia and Syria in this domain also serves as a model for regional cooperation, showing how nations can collaborate to overcome healthcare challenges, share technological innovations, and provide better services to citizens. The experience of connecting virtual healthcare platforms across borders illustrates the potential of digital solutions to address disparities in medical access while fostering international collaboration.

Beyond the immediate healthcare benefits, the collaboration fosters a culture of learning, exchange, and innovation. By promoting knowledge sharing, joint projects, and cross-border training, both countries are building a foundation for sustained progress in health services, cultural initiatives, and societal development.

Looking ahead, both ministries are expected to continue exploring opportunities for partnership, including joint programs, knowledge exchange, and expanded digital healthcare initiatives. These efforts are designed to enhance medical capabilities, improve patient care, and cultivate a robust health culture in Syria, all while strengthening the broader diplomatic and cultural ties between the two nations.

In conclusion, the meeting between Saudi Minister of Health Fahad Al-Jalajel and Syrian Minister of Culture Mohammed Yassin Saleh underscores a positive, forward-looking collaboration that combines healthcare innovation with cultural integration.

Through the Seha Virtual Hospital and ongoing cooperation, both nations are setting a benchmark for regional partnerships that prioritize quality of life, technological advancement, and shared expertise, reflecting a shared vision of progress and humanitarian service.

The specialized unit, designed to deliver life-saving stroke treatment directly at the site of emergencies, is being deployed for the first time during Hajj 2025. Dr. Abdullah Al-Harthi, executive director of Ajyad Hospital and emergency medicine consultant, described the initiative as a “revolutionary step in stroke care.”

“The mobile unit eliminates the need to transport patients to a hospital,” Dr. Al-Harthi told local media. “It allows rapid access to difficult areas and immediate intervention, improving survival rates and patient recovery.”

Equipped with a CT scanner, intravenous contrast system, clot-dissolving drugs, and high-speed internet with a 360-degree live camera, the unit allows real-time monitoring by consultants located remotely, ensuring swift diagnosis and treatment. Each unit operates with a highly trained team consisting of a neurologist, cardiologist, respiratory therapist, radiologist, emergency nurse, and paramedic.

A collaboration between Health Holding Co., the Makkah Health Cluster, and King Faisal Specialist Hospital & Research Center, the initiative was rolled out under the supervision of the Ministry of Health. Dr. Al-Harthi confirmed that the unit treats one patient at a time, typically completing diagnosis and treatment within 15 minutes.

One notable case involved a 60-year-old pilgrim from Uganda who collapsed inside the Grand Mosque. Displaying symptoms of a stroke — including slurred speech and paralysis — he was rushed to the mobile unit, where he underwent immediate scanning and clot-dissolving therapy. His condition stabilized within minutes, and he was later transferred to King Abdulaziz Hospital for follow-up care. Within 48 hours, the patient showed significant improvement and expressed a desire to continue his pilgrimage.

“This case underscores the critical value of early stroke intervention in protecting brain function,” Dr. Al-Harthi said, lauding the coordination among government agencies that made the initiative a reality.

The mobile unit was most recently deployed to Jabal Al-Rahma Hospital, as part of a broader strategy to deliver top-tier medical services across key Hajj locations, enabling pilgrims to complete their spiritual journey in safety and dignity.

Every year, Saudi Arabia mobilizes approximately 50,000 healthcare and support professionals who work around the clock to serve millions of pilgrims visiting the holy sites.

The cutting-edge facility, unveiled on Wednesday, reflects the Kingdom’s unwavering commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being of pilgrims during their spiritual journey. The Ministry described the move as part of a broader effort by the Joint Forces Command to facilitate a safe and healthy pilgrimage experience for all worshippers.

The mobile hospital comprises an expansive network of 29 medical trailers and 26 specialized modules, designed to serve as a fully functional healthcare unit. These include inpatient wards with a 50-bed capacity, a surgical operating room, intensive care and observation units, and an emergency department. The setup also features a radiology unit, medical laboratory, pharmacy, and a series of specialized outpatient clinics.

A dedicated recovery and sterilization wing further ensures readiness for surgical and emergency interventions.

“This initiative highlights the pivotal role played by the Ministry of Defense in strengthening the Kingdom’s health infrastructure at the holy sites,” the Ministry said in a statement.

In coordination with the Ministry of Health, the General Directorate for Health Services confirmed that it has rolled out a comprehensive medical strategy ahead of the Hajj season. This strategy includes the activation of 36 healthcare centers across Mina, Arafat, and Muzdalifah, boasting a combined capacity of over 1,000 beds.

To ensure seamless operations, 1,791 medical and administrative personnel have been deployed across fixed and mobile medical units, emergency hubs, and specialized clinics throughout the pilgrimage route.

Saudi Arabia continues to prioritize the health and security of pilgrims, introducing advanced healthcare solutions and infrastructure improvements to accommodate millions of worshippers converging for Hajj from around the world.

The Hajj, set to begin on June 4, will see the convergence of pilgrims from over 180 countries on the holy cities of Makkah and Madinah, reaffirming the Kingdom’s enduring role as the custodian of Islam’s holiest sites. But with global temperatures on the rise, Saudi officials are racing against time to prevent heat-related incidents.

“Pilgrims’ Safety Is Our Top Priority”

Speaking ahead of the pilgrimage, Saudi Minister of Hajj and Umrah Dr. Tawfiq Al-Rabiah emphasized the urgent need to adapt to the growing threat of heatwaves.

“One of the big challenges we face is the increasing temperature across the years. This is an issue to which we give top priority,” Al-Rabiah said. He highlighted the Kingdom’s integration of technology and strategic infrastructure to safeguard pilgrims.

Indeed, the urgency of this commitment became evident when the Ministry of Health confirmed five cases of heat exhaustion on Friday among pilgrims performing early rituals. All patients received immediate care and are now in stable condition.

Health teams remain on high alert, stationed throughout the holy sites with rapid response units and mobile clinics. The ministry has issued a series of health advisories urging pilgrims to stay hydrated, avoid direct sunlight, use shaded paths, and report early signs of fatigue or heatstroke. Multilingual public awareness campaigns have been launched to ensure the message reaches every corner of the diverse pilgrim community.

Cooling Infrastructure and High-Tech Surveillance

To alleviate the impact of the blistering summer heat, authorities have added 50,000 square meters of shaded areas across key pilgrimage zones. Over 400 misting fans and cooling stations have been installed, and major walkways have been resurfaced with heat-reflective asphalt to reduce ground temperatures.

Inside the Grand Mosque, renovation and extension projects are being accelerated to reduce congestion and provide ample space for air circulation. The Saudi Food and Drug Authority (SFDA) has also ramped up food and pharmaceutical safety inspections to ensure the quality and safety of consumables.

Dr. Hisham S. Al-Jadhey, CEO of the SFDA, conducted a high-profile inspection of the authority’s operations in Makkah. His visit included tours of food warehouses, medical supply storage facilities, and the SFDA’s advanced Hajj Operations Center.

He reiterated the importance of deploying modern technology, including AI-powered monitoring systems, to oversee field inspections and logistics. “Ensuring the safety of all food and medicine for pilgrims is a great honor and a responsibility we take seriously,” Al-Jadhey stated.

The SFDA’s mobile inspection teams are now equipped with body cameras, real-time data systems, and AI-enhanced tools that monitor storage conditions, regulatory compliance, and product expiration.

Revolutionizing Healthcare with Robotics

In a pioneering move, the Ministry of Health has launched a robotic surgery program at King Abdullah Medical City in Makkah. The initiative, which marks a significant advancement in digital healthcare, aims to deliver precise surgical interventions during Hajj, when healthcare facilities often experience peak demand.

The project is part of a broader vision to transform the healthcare landscape using telemedicine, smart diagnostics, and AI-based triage systems. Emergency hospitals in Mina and other critical locations have been equipped with advanced life-support systems, ICU beds, and multilingual medical staff.

During his inspection, Dr. Al-Jadhey also met with Dr. Abdullah bin Rashoud Al-Algwizani, CEO of the Saudi Public Health Authority (Weqaya), to discuss the ongoing collaboration between their respective institutions. The leaders reviewed plans to integrate public health data with regulatory oversight to better anticipate and respond to potential outbreaks or emergencies during Hajj.

AI-Powered Pilgrimage Management

The Kingdom’s technological transformation has become a cornerstone of Hajj planning. Drones equipped with surveillance cameras are being used to monitor crowds in real time, relaying data to command centers to prevent stampedes and swiftly identify medical emergencies.

“We use advanced AI technologies to do this monitoring and get fast feedback,” said Al-Rabiah. “This allows us to intervene in real time and prevent tragedies before they happen.”

Additionally, AI systems are now tracking weather patterns, air quality, and crowd density, helping authorities make data-driven decisions about crowd control, emergency evacuations, and service distribution.

Tightening Security with Smart Surveillance

To prevent unauthorized individuals from participating in the pilgrimage—a factor blamed for many of the heat-related deaths during last year’s Hajj—the Ministry of Interior has tightened surveillance and access controls.

Using AI-enabled facial recognition, smart checkpoints, and digital permit systems, authorities are monitoring the flow of people into the holy sites. Unauthorized pilgrims attempting to enter without official Hajj permits face fines, detention, and deportation.

Security officials say these measures are essential to manage crowd numbers and ensure the safety of registered pilgrims, especially in extreme weather conditions.

Global Collaboration and Diplomatic Coordination

Behind the scenes, diplomatic missions from dozens of countries are working closely with Saudi agencies to ensure their nationals have access to essential services, emergency assistance, and cultural guidance.

The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has also expanded its digital portal to streamline pilgrim registration, accommodation booking, and transportation services. The system, now integrated with biometric identification, allows for faster movement through immigration and security checkpoints.

A Vision Rooted in Service

As the Kingdom welcomes the Hajj season, its preparations reflect a broader commitment to Vision 2030 — a national transformation plan that aims to position Saudi Arabia as a hub of innovation and spiritual leadership.

This year’s Hajj, with its fusion of faith, technology, and international cooperation, encapsulates the Kingdom’s evolving role on the global stage. It is a message not only of religious devotion but also of human dignity, compassion, and progress.

By blending centuries-old traditions with 21st-century solutions, Saudi Arabia is setting a global standard for pilgrimage management—ensuring that every pilgrim can perform their rites in safety, comfort, and peace.