King Faisal Specialist Hospital & Research Centre (KFSHRC) has achieved a groundbreaking milestone in gene and cell therapy by successfully treating the first patient using genetically engineered CAR-T cells manufactured locally in Saudi Arabia. The treatment was administered as part of a Phase I clinical trial for patients with relapsed acute lymphoblastic leukemia, marking a significant advancement in the Kingdom's advanced therapy capabilities.
Leading Clinical Research in Saudi Arabia
KFSHRC demonstrated its dominance in clinical research by conducting 48% of all clinical trials registered nationwide during the first half of 2025. The hospital currently maintains 104 active clinical trials with 80 new studies underway, providing patients with broader access to innovative therapies and expanding future treatment options.
According to the Saudi National Institute of Health, clinical trials in the Kingdom during the first half of 2025 focused on cancer, cardiovascular diseases, musculoskeletal, dermatological and autoimmune conditions, gastrointestinal and liver diseases, as well as endocrine and metabolic disorders.
Advancing Gene and Cell Therapy
The successful CAR-T cell treatment represents a pivotal moment for advanced therapies in the region. KFSHRC continues to strengthen its capabilities in gene and cellular treatments while expanding into new clinical trials that drive medical innovation. This achievement reinforces the hospital's role as a leader in pioneering healthcare research and aligns with the objectives of Saudi Vision 2030.
International Recognition
KFSHRC's research excellence has earned international recognition, with the institution ranked first in the Middle East and Africa and 15th globally among the world's top 250 Academic Medical Centres for 2025. The hospital has also been recognized as the most valuable healthcare brand in Saudi Arabia and the Middle East by Brand Finance in 2024, and listed among the World's Best Smart Hospitals 2025 by Newsweek.
