RIYADH — The increasing government support for the local healthcare industry has given Saudi Arabia's leading health care solution providers an opportunity to introduce their innovative solutions and services in the Kingdom. Saudi Arabia, which comprises over two-thirds of the total GCC population, is the largest healthcare spender in the region. In 2013, it spent an estimated $35.9 billion on health care1. As its population steadily climbs, the Kingdom's spending is projected to further increase by an average of 6.2 percent a year between 2014 and 20182. Five medical cities and 132 hospitals are currently being constructed or in the pipeline. In 2014 alone, the Ministry of Health awarded contracts for the construction of 34 new hospitals and health care centers across the Kingdom. Building on the vast market prospects, Riyadh Exhibitions Company (REC) has been extending similar support as part of its contributions to the sector's development. Through its exhibitions, it brings together key industry players and leaders from across the world to provide them an ideal platform to explore significant market opportunities. Saudi Health Exhibition and Conferences 2015, the latest edition of the largest health care event in Saudi Arabia to be held under the patronage of the Saudi Ministry of Health and organized in cooperation with Informa Life Sciences Exhibitions, is one such event that is generating strong interest from leading local, regional and global health care companies. More premier industry leaders have already expressed their plans to participate in this year's international show, which will host over 13,000 exhibitors and visitors. To offer more than 8,000 square meters of premier exhibition space, the 2015 event will feature 12 official country pavilions and 350 exhibitors from 38 countries. Major industry players continue to support and contribute to the local sector's growth in line with the Saudi Ministry of Health's strategic objectives. Saudi Health 2015 aims to bring in more businesses to the local market by opening up new opportunities, reinforcing existing partnerships, and providing a platform to launch new products and services. An official from REC said “healthcare has always been one of the Kingdom's budget priorities as evidenced by the many significant projects launched by the government to ensure that the health needs of its growing population are consistently and satisfactorily addressed. The Saudi Health Exhibition and Conferences is a testament to our full commitment to strategically contribute to the government's ongoing efforts. As in previous years, we will provide a platform for all industry stakeholders to meet, learn and do business. The event will showcase the latest technologies as well as assist companies that are interested in bringing their respective businesses to the local market. We invite all stakeholders to take advantage of these immense industry opportunities by supporting and coming to our event.” Meanwhile, Informa Life Sciences Exhibitions, expressed confidence in the coming event. A spokesperson from the firm said “Informa Life Sciences Exhibitions is looking forward to welcoming all participants from across the globe to our three-day event. Exhibitors and visitors can expect a fruitful exchange of knowledge and experience that will help attain their current and future objectives. This year's Saudi Health Exhibition and Conferences will showcase more features compared with the previous years in our bid to meet the local sector's growing requirements and needs.” The gathering slated on May 18-20, 2015 at the Riyadh International Convention and Exhibition Centre, will enable regional and global health care representatives, dealers, suppliers, and service providers to discuss growth initiatives. Its main goal is to help further bolster Saudi Arabia's thriving health industry. — SG
