King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Centre (KFSHRC) has achieved a major strategic milestone by localizing the manufacturing and production of genetically modified T-cell therapy (CAR T-cells) within Saudi Arabia. With this achievement, KFSHRC becomes the first medical center in the Kingdom to possess full capabilities for developing this advanced therapeutic approach domestically as part of clinical research.

This accomplishment represents a transformative leap in advancing national medical self-sufficiency—particularly in the field of precision immunotherapy. It also strengthens Saudi Arabia’s position as a regional hub for biotechnology innovation and supports the Kingdom’s vision for building a knowledge-based economy in line with Saudi Vision 2030.

Local production of CAR T-cell therapies has significantly reduced the time required to prepare the treatment, enhanced clinical response effectiveness, and lowered costs by more than 70% compared to overseas manufacturing. This enables faster and more efficient access to advanced specialized care.

The initial batches of CAR T-cells were produced as part of clinical studies led by national scientific teams from KFSHRC’s Hematology Department, Pathology Laboratory, and the Center of Excellence for Innovation and Development. In parallel, KFSHRC is investing in a robust research infrastructure to support the future of cellular therapy manufacturing, complemented by specialized national training programs aimed at building local expertise in this critical field.

This advancement follows KFSHRC’s receipt of regulatory approval from the Saudi Food and Drug Authority to launch the Kingdom’s first Phase I clinical trial of an innovative gene-based therapy. The study involves genetically modified T-cells targeting the CD19 protein to treat adult patients with relapsed or treatment-resistant acute lymphoblastic leukemia.

This milestone reinforces KFSHRC’s central role in advancing precision medicine and pioneering innovative treatments. It reflects the hospital’s commitment to delivering world-class specialized care and a seamless patient experience, supported by a globally competitive environment for research and education.

KFSHRC is ranked first in the Middle East and North Africa and 15th globally on Brand Finance’s 2025 list of the world’s top 250 academic medical centers. It is also recognized as the most valuable healthcare brand in the Kingdom and the region, and was listed among the World’s Best Smart Hospitals 2025 by Newsweek.