Saudi Arabia's SFDA Integrates Artificial Intelligence For Enhanced Drug Regulation And Safety

The Saudi Food and Drug Authority (SFDA), under the leadership of Dr. Hisham Aljadhey, is actively incorporating artificial intelligence into its drug regulatory processes. This initiative aims to improve drug safety and quality, aligning with the objectives of Saudi Vision 2030. This vision emphasises innovation and modern technology to maximise impact in the field of drug regulation.

At the International Coalition of Medicines Regulatory Authorities (ICMRA) Summit 2025, held at the European Medicines Agency headquarters in Amsterdam, Dr. Aljadhey co-chaired a session with Lawrence Tallon from the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA). The session was titled "Artificial Intelligence in Regulatory Practices: Looking into the Future." It focused on regulatory principles for AI use, challenges in leveraging AI, and its role in shaping global regulatory practices.

The summit provided a platform for discussing AI's potential in regulatory practices. Participants exchanged experiences and reviewed decision-making mechanisms based on analytical data. These discussions aimed to enhance the effectiveness of regulatory authorities worldwide by integrating AI technologies.

The ICMRA Summit took place from October 21 to 23. It featured meetings, discussions, and dialogue sessions aimed at boosting cooperation among alliance members. The agenda focused on capacity building and sharing expertise and data to address challenges in drug safety.

ICMRA is an international coalition dedicated to enhancing collaboration among drug regulatory bodies globally. Its mission includes addressing drug safety challenges and developing relevant regulations and legislative frameworks. The coalition's efforts aim to improve international cooperation among regulatory authorities.

Dr. Aljadhey highlighted that integrating AI technologies into drug regulation aligns with Saudi Arabia's broader goals under Vision 2030. This approach seeks to harness innovation for significant advancements in drug safety and quality assurance.

With inputs from SPA