PharmaKnowl Consulting was pleased to participate in the DIA Annual Meeting 2026 in Singapore, bringing together pharmaceutical, biotechnology, regulatory, and healthcare professionals from across the global life sciences community.
As part of the meeting’s scientific program, Mohammed Jobran, Principal Consultant & CEO of PharmaKnowl Consulting, delivered a lecture titled “Innovation in Medicines Regulation: Accelerated SFDA Pathways by Development Stage.”
The session examined the development of innovative regulatory approaches within Saudi Arabia and the accelerated pathways available through the Saudi Food and Drug Authority (SFDA). Mr. Jobran discussed how regulatory pathways can differ by the stage of medicine development and how these mechanisms can support more efficient regulatory processes for innovative therapies while maintaining the necessary scientific and regulatory standards.
Drawing on more than 20 years of experience across the pharmaceutical, biotechnology, and MedTech sectors in Saudi Arabia, Mr. Jobran shared practical insights into the Saudi regulatory framework and what companies should consider when pursuing accelerated regulatory routes. His presentation highlighted the importance of understanding the applicable pathway early in development and regulatory planning, particularly for innovative products seeking efficient progression through regulatory assessment.
The discussion also addressed the broader evolution of medicines regulation in Saudi Arabia, including the importance of regulatory innovation in supporting timely access to new therapies. By connecting development-stage considerations with available regulatory pathways, the session offered an industry perspective on how companies can better understand and navigate the changing Saudi regulatory landscape.
Mr. Jobran’s background includes his previous role as Chief Regulatory Pharmacist at the SFDA, providing a direct perspective on Saudi regulatory processes and the practical considerations involved in medicines regulation.
The session was followed by valuable discussions with pharmaceutical and biotechnology professionals attending the DIA Annual Meeting, offering an opportunity to exchange perspectives on regulatory developments and Saudi Arabia’s growing role in the global life sciences landscape.


About the Author
Contributed by the PharmaKnowl regulatory affairs team, based in Riyadh. Written and reviewed by our SFDA-experienced consultants.
Resources
Services
Events




