KFSHRC And Eli Lilly Partner To Enhance Alzheimer's Early Detection In Saudi Arabia

King Faisal Specialist Hospital & Research Centre (KFSHRC) and Eli Lilly Saudi Arabia have entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to enhance Alzheimer's patient care. This agreement aims to transform KFSHRC's Neuroscience Centre into a leading regional hub for Alzheimer's Disease. The collaboration will focus on educating and training Saudi healthcare professionals about neurodegenerative diseases, incorporating the latest global research and best practices.

The partnership envisions Lilly transferring manufacturing expertise to KFSHRC. This will enable the future production of Positron Emission Tomography (PET) imaging agents and tracers in Saudi Arabia, with potential for export. PET scans are advanced tests using radiopharmaceuticals known as tracers. They help detect early signs of cancer, heart disease, and brain conditions like tumors, epilepsy, dementia, and Alzheimer's disease.

Dr. Najeeb Qadi, Director of the Neuroscience Centre at KFSHRC, stated: "The signing of this MoU between KFSHRC and Lilly represents a transformative step in dealing with Alzheimer's disease. Through localized, cutting-edge PET imaging technology, we can empower earlier, more accurate diagnoses, giving patients a chance at better outcomes and improved quality of life."

This collaboration emphasizes knowledge transfer and technology sharing to equip Saudi specialists with the latest advancements. It aims to empower local experts to deliver world-class care by bringing global innovations directly to patients. The initiative underscores a commitment to enhancing patient well-being and providing hope through advanced care solutions.

Irina Zaporozhets, President of Lilly Middle East and Turkey, remarked: "Lilly will bring state-of-the-art early detection processes for diseases like Alzheimer's to Saudi Arabia. By combining our expertise with KFSHRC, we aim to make transformative strides in diagnosing and treating Alzheimer's in Saudi Arabia."

This strategic partnership allows for the production of Amyloid and Tau PET tracers for Alzheimer's imaging within Saudi Arabia. It is expected to improve patient outcomes while establishing a foundation for ongoing regional research and innovation in Alzheimer's care.

KFSHRC's Global Recognition

KFSHRC has been recognized as the top Academic Medical Centre in the Middle East and Africa for two consecutive years. It ranks 20th globally among the world's top 250 Academic Medical Centres according to Brand Finance's 2024 rankings. Additionally, it was named the most valuable healthcare brand in both the Kingdom and the Middle East.

In 2025, Newsweek magazine included KFSHRC among the world's best 250 hospitals and listed it as one of the World's Best Smart Hospitals. These accolades highlight its commitment to excellence in healthcare delivery.

The collaboration between KFSHRC and Eli Lilly marks a significant step towards advancing Alzheimer's care in Saudi Arabia through innovative technologies and expert knowledge sharing.

With inputs from SPA