In a national achievement that adds to Saudi Arabia's growing list of international accomplishments, talented Saudi students participating in the Regeneron International Science and Engineering Fair (ISEF 2026) have achieved a new global scientific success. The Kingdom's champions won 12 major awards in advanced and specialized scientific and engineering fields, underscoring the quality of educational outcomes, the strength of young national talent, and their exceptional ability to compete and innovate at the world's most prestigious science fairs.
General context and historical background of the Kingdom's participation
The International Science and Engineering Fair (ISEF) is the world’s largest pre-university science competition, attracting thousands of talented students from over 80 countries annually. Saudi Arabia’s participation in this event is the culmination of the efforts of the King Abdulaziz and His Companions Foundation for Giftedness and Creativity (Mawhiba), in strategic partnership with the Ministry of Education. Students undergo an intensive training and development journey, beginning with local exhibitions and the National Olympiad for Scientific Creativity, and culminating in representing the nation internationally. This systematic investment in young minds reflects the vision of the wise leadership in building a generation capable of leading the future.
Awards details: Champions who raised the Kingdom's flag
The outstanding results crowned the students' efforts with advanced rankings that reflect the depth of their scientific research. Student Mohammed Nasser Al-Asmari, from the Royal Commission Education Department in Jubail, ascended the podium, winning first place in the field of computational biology and informatics, achieving the highest Saudi ranking in this edition.
won Imran Omar Turkistani second place, while student Fatima Al-Muqrin in fourth, and student Yara Al-Qadi third place in the same field. In the field of materials science, student Abdullah Ahmed Al-Rashid , achieving third place, and he was joined in this achievement by student Jumana Talal Bilal, who secured second place in the same field.
In chemistry, student Abdul Rahman Basem Jamal third place, while student Dalin Badr Qadir second place in the field of earth and environmental sciences.
Innovative solutions for energy, sustainability, and medicine
The achievements weren't limited to this, but extended to vital sectors that impact the future of humanity. In the field of energy, student Fatima Mohammed Al-Saleem third place, and student Lana Abdullah Abu Talib fourth place, confirming the remarkable Saudi presence in developing innovative future energy solutions. In the field of sustainability, student Munira Sulaiman Al-Rumi second place with a project reflecting national excellence in environmental protection. And in biomedicine and health sciences, student Joan Hindi third place for her innovative research project.
Expected impact and importance of the event
Domestically, this exceptional achievement aligns directly with the goals of Saudi Vision 2030, specifically the Human Capital Development Program, which aims to enhance the global competitiveness of Saudi citizens and transform the Kingdom into a knowledge-based economy. Regionally, the Kingdom solidifies its position as a leader in scientific innovation in the Middle East, inspiring Arab youth to strive for excellence. Internationally, these awards demonstrate that Saudi minds are active partners in providing scientific solutions to complex global challenges, thus strengthening the Kingdom's soft power and highlighting its role as a key supporter of science, technology, and innovation.
