PARIS — Saudi Arabia’s Embassy in France, under the invitation of Fahad Al Ruwaily, Saudi Ambassador to France and Monaco, hosted a special reception at the ambassador’s residence in Paris on the sidelines of the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology Congress.

The reception brought together leaders of dermatology from more than 40 national and regional societies in support of Riyadh’s bid to host the 2031 World Congress of Dermatology. This will mark the first time in the 135-year history of the International League of Dermatological Societies that this prestigious global event will be held in the Middle East and North Africa region.

In his opening remarks at the event, Ambassador Fahad Al Ruwaily said: “Hosting the World Congress of Dermatology for the first time in our region will be a historic milestone and a message from the Kingdom to the world that we are capable of bringing together tradition and modernity, science and humanity.” “Riyadh will open its doors to the world in 2031 as a hub of science, medicine, and innovation. This reflects the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 which has made investment in knowledge, research, and people a central pillar of our national renaissance. Today Saudi Arabia does not just host events, it builds the future.”

Dr Ruaa Alharithy, president of the Riyadh Bid and board certified dermatologist in Canada, highlighted the significance of women’s leadership. “Dermatology in Saudi Arabia is built on innovation and inclusivity. Today many departments of dermatology in our Kingdom are led by women. Should Riyadh be chosen, it will be my honor to become the first woman in history to preside over the World Congress of Dermatology after more than 135 years of ILDS history. This would be both a national and global achievement, showcasing the leadership role of Saudi women.”

Dr Saad AlSogair, secretary general of the Riyadh Bid and Executive Vice President of MEIDAM, said: “Our physicians have published thousands of scientific papers, participated in global clinical trials, and established pioneering national registries. I am also honored to have received this year the ILDS International Leadership Award, a recognition that reflects the collective efforts of the Saudi dermatology community. The international support we witness today confirms that the Kingdom is ready to host such a historic event.”

Professor Dedee Murrell, Board Member of the EADV, expressed her admiration for Saudi Arabia’s dermatology community.

“Having been invited to lecture in Riyadh by the Saudi Society of Dermatology before the pandemic, I can attest to the high standards of their training, research, and presentations. Most Saudi dermatologists have also trained in the United States, Canada, or France, and their scientific contributions are of exceptional quality. Riyadh is more than qualified to host this global meeting. And to see a Saudi woman lead this Congress for the first time in its 135-year history would be truly groundbreaking.”

Dr Abdullah AlAkeel, President of the Saudi Society of Dermatology and Dermatologic Surgery, stated: “Bringing the World Congress of Dermatology to Riyadh in 2031 will be a landmark achievement for Saudi Arabia’s scientific and medical journey. It will be a source of pride for every Saudi dermatologist and a historic opportunity to showcase the Kingdom’s role on the world stage.”

Dr Maisa Ashmawi, Head of Dermatology at the Ministry of Health, added: “We extend our gratitude to the Saudi Tourism Authority for their tremendous support in making this reception a success and for strengthening Riyadh’s position as a global hub for science and culture.”

The reception was attended by distinguished figures including leaders from the International League of Dermatological Societies, the American Academy of Dermatology, the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology, the Latin American Society of Dermatology, the Asian Society of Dermatology, and the International Society of Dermatology. Their presence underscored the strong global backing for Riyadh’s 2031 bid.