Ǫ1. Could you start by giving us a brief overview of your professional background, particularly focusing on your expertise in the industry?

I am a Saudi Sports Medicine advocate, specialized in Sports Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation, with an extensive accomplishing experience in clinical and leadership in sports industry where I served in both government and private sector; through treating clients, developing services, creating solutions and providing guidance for startups.

I’ve practiced sports medicine and rehabilitation along with top notch sports organizations like the Saudi Olympic committee, Saudi Football Federation, and different sports clubs such as Al-Hilal SC, participating in numerous local and international tournaments for the past 15 years.

Recently, I worked as Sports Medicine Director in one of the wellknown comprehensive sports medicine center based in Riyadh, where I expanded my expertise in developing a comprehensive ecosystem that links all operational, training aspects along with research activities to drive excellence, helped the center to grant AFC accreditation as being the center of excellence.

 

Ǫ2. How is the demand for specialized sports medicine services evolving across Saudi Arabia and the broader GCC region—particularly in response to increased government and private investment in sports?

The demand for specialized sports medicine services in Saudi Arabia and the GCC is growing rapidly, driven by significant government and private investments aligned with economic diversification strategies, such as Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 directed towards hosting the worlds’ most important sporting events; such as Formula 1 , Asian Cup 2027, Asian Winter Game in Trojena 2029, World Cup 2034, and a lot others.

Although Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF) has made high-profile investments in sports, including the acquisition of Newcastle United FC internationally and locally top 4 Saudi clubs (AlHilal FC, AlNassir FC, AlAhli FC, AlEttihad FC), and the funding of LIV Golf, signaling a strategic push to position the Kingdom as a global sports hub. Demand for sports medicine services to serve professional and amateur athletes has increased as a result of these investments, which have sparked the construction of infrastructure such as sports academies, smart stadiums, and specialist clinics.

Countries such as the UAE and Qatar are also making significant investments throughout the GCC. The UAE's ownership of Manchester City and its hosting of the 2022 FIFA World Cup are increasing demand for improved injury prevention and rehabilitation services.

Market data indicate that the global sports medicine market was valued at USD 6.41 billion in 2023 and is projected to grow at a CAGR of 6.8% through 2029, with the Middle East and Africa (including the GCC) contributing around 10% to this market. Sports involvement has surged in Saudi Arabia, especially among women and young people (thanks to reforms like women's access to gyms and sports since 2017). This has led to a rise in injury rates, which has increased demand for arthroscopic procedures and regenerative therapies. This tendency is further exacerbated by the youthful, active population and expanding fitness culture in the GCC, where specialist facilities in major cities are implementing wearable technology and AI-driven diagnostics to fulfill the increased demands for performance and recovery.

 

Ǫ3. Which patient segments are driving this growth?

Several patient segments are driving the growth of sports medicine services in the GCC:

Elite Athletes

For maximum performance and quick recuperation, professional athletes—such as those participating in track and field, motorsports, and soccer (e.g., Saudi Pro League players like Cristiano Ronaldo), need advanced interventions. The influx of international talent to GCC leagues increases demand for specialized care.

Youth and Amateur Athletes

The rise in youth sports participation, supported by Saudi Arabia’s government initiatives like expanding the number of sports federations- such as triathlon federation - and school physical education programs and tournaments, has led to higher injury rates, particularly knee and ankle injuries, necessitating sports medicine services.

Women Athletes

Since 2017, reforms in Saudi Arabia have enabled greater female participation in sports, with women competing internationally. This segment drives demand for gender-specific rehabilitation and injury prevention programs.

Active Aging Population

The GCC's older population, especially in the UAE and Saudi Arabia, is becoming more active in order to preserve their mobility, which is driving up demand for rehabilitation equipment and treatments including physical therapy and regenerative medicine.

Recreational Fitness Enthusiasts

The growing fitness culture, characterized by increased gym memberships and participation in marathons, contributes to injuries such as sprains and strains, which account for over 50% of sports-related injuries globally. These segments collectively drive demand for both surgical and non-surgical interventions, with a focus on minimally invasive and tech-integrated solutions.

 

Ǫ4. How has the demand for dry needling evolved in clinical and athletic settings in the GCC and Asia? Is it becoming a must-have modality in high-performance rehab centers?

Dry needling, a technique that involves the insertion of filiform needles to target myofascial trigger points, is gaining traction in the GCC and Asia, particularly in high-performance rehabilitation centers.

In the GCC, the demand is driven by the region’s focus on elite sports and the need for rapid recovery protocols. Studies indicate dry needling is effective for pain relief, reducing edema, and improving range of motion and strength in acute injury phases, making it appealing for athletes.

In Saudi Arabia and the UAE, clinics catering to professional athletes (e.g., soccer players in the Saudi Pro League) are increasingly adopting dry needling as part of comprehensive rehabilitation programs, often combined with modalities like cupping and electrical stimulation.

In Asia, particularly in countries such as Japan and South Korea, dry needling is utilized in sports medicine for both elite and amateur athletes. For example, a 2020 study on elite soccer players found that dry needling improved thigh muscle strength and hip flexion, thereby enhancing performance and reducing the risk of injury. Its adoption is growing in high-performance centers due to its fast-acting analgesia and ability to support rapid return-to-play, as noted in qualitative studies with Swedish track and field athletes.

While not yet a universal “must-have” modality, dry needling is becoming a standard offering in high-performance rehab centers in the GCC and Asia, particularly where rapid recovery is critical. Its integration is limited by the need for trained practitioners and further research on long-term effects, but its popularity is rising as athletes and clinicians seek evidence-based, non-invasive solutions.

 

Q5. Among elite athletes and sports teams, is dry needling being integrated as a routine protocol or used selectively for complex cases?

Among elite athletes and sports teams, dry needling is used for both selective complex cases and as a routine protocol. However, its application is most common in managing musculoskeletal pain (MSKP) and specific conditions like myofascial trigger points, knee osteoarthritis, or tendon injuries. For example, a qualitative study of elite Swedish track and field athletes highlighted that dry needling (specifically neuroanatomical dry needling) was sought for its fast-acting analgesia to address MSKP episodes that reduce physical capacity, enabling rapid return-to-play. Similarly, case studies on ballet dancers and soccer players demonstrate that dry needling improves strength and flexibility in targeted scenarios, such as post-injury recovery or chronic pain management.

However, it is not routinely integrated across all elite sports settings due to variability in practitioner expertise, regulatory differences, and the need for individualized treatment plans. In Saudi Arabia, dry needling guidelines have been published by the Ministry of Health to regulate the practice. Although elite teams (e.g., Al-Nassr or Al-Hilal in Saudi Arabia) may use dry needling alongside a comprehensive therapeutic model to facilitate a safe return to play and reduce time lost due to injury.

 

Ǫ6. How are new technologies being integrated into the clinical workflow?

New technologies are transforming sports medicine clinical workflows in the GCC and globally, enhancing diagnosis, treatment, and rehabilitation:

Wearable Devices and Sensors

Wearable technologies, such as fitness trackers and AI-enabled compression garments, monitor biomechanics, muscle activity, and vital signs in real-time.

For example, Stryker’s joint stabilization system with injury-monitoring sensors is used by 25% of athletes in rehabilitation programs. These devices enable personalized training and recovery plans, resulting in an 18% reduction in injury recurrence in clinical trials.

AI and Predictive Analytics

AI-driven platforms, such as NeuralCure AI’s partnership with Modern Sports Medicine and C Wellness, integrate predictive analytics and diagnostics into workflows, improving injury forecasting and return-to-play timelines. A 2023 study noted AI-assisted rehabilitation reduced recovery time by 30% compared to conventional methods.

Advanced Imaging

High-resolution MRI and portable ultrasound systems, such as those from Philips, provide detailed insights into joint and muscle health, enabling precise diagnosis of soft tissue injuries. These are increasingly used in GCC clinics for elite athletes.

Regenerative Medicine Technologies

PRP and stem cell therapies are integrated into workflows for treating tendon and joint injuries, with companies like ConMed offering PRP kits used in 20% of major U.S. sports clinics, a trend that is expanding to the GCC.

Digital Health Platforms

Telemedicine and mobile apps, such as Arthrex’s ACLTear.com, bridge gaps between athletes and clinicians, offering remote consultations and injury prevention guidance. This is particularly relevant in the GCC, where access to specialized care can be limited outside major cities.

Robotics and Minimally Invasive Surgery

Robotic-assisted surgeries, used in 15% of ACL reconstructions, enhance precision and reduce recovery times. Arthrex’s minimally invasive tools are adopted in 10% of global clinics, including in the GCC.

These technologies streamline workflows by enabling proactive, data-driven care, reducing downtime, and improving outcomes, particularly in high-performance settings.

 

Ǫ7. If you were an investor looking at companies within the space, what critical question would you pose to their senior management?

As an investor, I would ask: How is your company balancing innovation in advanced technologies (e.g., AI, wearables, regenerative medicine) with accessibility and cost-effectiveness to capture both elite and amateur athlete markets in rapidly growing regions like the GCC?

This question is critical because the sports medicine market faces challenges in high RCD costs and accessibility barriers, particularly for amateur athletes and in emerging markets like the GCC. Companies must demonstrate scalable, cost-effective solutions to tap into the growing demand from diverse patient segments while maintaining cutting-edge offerings for elite athletes. The response would reveal the company’s strategic vision, market adaptability, and ability to address the financial and infrastructural constraints highlighted in market analyses.