Setting our sights on Dhahran: looking ahead to IASP 2027

In 2027, the IASP World Conference will head to Dhahran, Saudi Arabia, for its 44th edition. During the recent IASP World Conference in Sophia Antipolis, the team from Dhahran Techno Valley (DTV) received the IASP flag from this year's host, marking the official handover to the next host destination. 

The 2027 conference is set to take place under the theme “Innovation for impact: The role of innovation spaces in driving growth”, exploring how science parks, innovation districts, areas of innovation and other innovation spaces translate knowledge, talent and investment into economic and societal outcomes. Discussions will consider their contribution to sustainable growth and the impact they can have on the people, businesses and regions they serve. Impact will be our keyword, and the programme will offer delegates opportunities to share experiences, compare approaches and learn from peers around the world. 

Dhahran provides a relevant setting for this discussion. Located in Saudi Arabia's Eastern Province, the city plays an important role in the country's energy sector and is home to the headquarters of Saudi Aramco. It is also part of the country's developing research, development and innovation ecosystem, with a growing focus on energy innovation and sustainability. 

Established in 2006, Dhahran Techno Valley is anchored by King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals (KFUPM) and works alongside a number of advanced research institutes. The park hosts major corporations as well as smaller entities and has facilitated over 950 technology transfers. More than 1,700 professionals work in its corporate R&D facilities. IASP 2027 will give delegates the opportunity to learn more about the park and the wider innovation ecosystem in Saudi Arabia. 

The DTV team was present in Sophia Antipolis to give delegates a preview of the next edition, with an exhibition stand featuring an interactive immersive experience. During the closing ceremony, DTV CEO Mohammed Abusharifah took the stage to invite the IASP community to Dhahran and received the IASP World Conference flag from Sophia Antipolis. 

Stay tuned for more on upcoming IASP events through our events section.