Saudi Arabia is preparing to host the 56th edition of the International Chemistry Olympiad (IChO) 2024, which will take place from July 21st to July 30th, with over 340 students, 400 university professors, and specialist chemistry teachers from 90 nations. The event is co-organized by the Ministry of Education, the King Abdulaziz and His Companions Foundation for Giftedness and Creativity (Mawhiba), and King Saud University, with special sponsorship from the Saudi Basic Industries Corporation (SABIC). The competition will be conducted at the King Saud University.

The IChO is a major international scientific competition in which brilliant high school students from all around the world compete in chemistry. The goal is to pique their interest in chemistry by solving independent and creative chemical problems, as well as to improve international communication in the field of chemistry, foster friendships among young scientists of various nationalities, and encourage collaboration and the exchange of educational and scientific experiences related to chemistry.

Dr. Amal Abdullah Al-Hazaa, Secretary General of Mawhiba and Chair of the Supervisory Committee for Hosting the Olympiad, said that hosting the 56th Edition of the IChO demonstrates the Kingdom's commitment to supporting the wise leadership’s interest in talent, science, and innovation. She noted that it coincides with the Kingdom's objective of strengthening its regional and international position and developing internationally competitive Saudi people, as outlined in Saudi Vision 2030.

She also stated that Mawhiba has prepared for this anticipated scientific event through parallel initiatives, such as improving coordination with its partners to ensure an exceptional hosting experience worthy of the Kingdom's stature, preparing gifted students for intense competition, and achieving new accomplishments in the name of the nation.

During their visit to Riyadh, members of the IChO's International Steering Committee complimented the Kingdom's readiness and extensive planning for hosting the highly anticipated event, which will be hosted for the first time in Saudi Arabia. This visit occurred during a meeting with His Excellency Yusuf bin Abdullah Al-Benyan, Minister of Education, who launched the Olympiad's awareness campaign in January. Dr. Amal Al-Hazaa, members of the International Steering Committee, and members of the IChO's Supervisory Committee were also present.

Saudi Arabia has an exceptional track record in the Olympiad, having won 39 medals in 13 previous participations, including 14 silver and 25 bronze, and the Saudi team received four global awards at the 2023 IChO in Switzerland.