Middle East Stem Cell Market Size, Share & Trends Analysis Report By Product (Adult Stem Cells, Human Embryonic Stem Cells), By Application, By Technology, By Therapy, By End-use, By Country, And Segment Forecasts, 2024 - 2030

Middle East Stem Cell Market Size & Trends

The Middle East stem cell market size was estimated at USD 694.0 million in 2023 and is projected to witness a CAGR of 7.56% from 2024 to 2030. The market’s growth can be attributed to the rising prevalence of chronic diseases such as cardiovascular diseases, and cancer. Growing awareness of the potential benefits of stem cell therapy and government investments in healthcare infrastructure and research are anticipated to provide filip to the market. Moreover, the increasing prevalence of diabetes in Middle East is one of the major growth drivers. According to the International Diabetes Federation, in 2021, Saudi Arabia reported a 17.7% prevalence with 4.3 million diabetes cases in adults.

Medical tourism has emerged as one of the popular trends in recent years. Middle East has witnessed a significant increase in the number of people traveling to receive stem cell treatments. The region is known for its advanced medical facilities. People from all over the world travel to Middle Eastern countries to receive stem cell treatments that are not available in their home countries. This has led to an increase in demand for stem cell treatments, which in turn has driven the growth of the regional stem cell market.

Stem cells can differentiate into various cell types, including cardiac muscle cells. This regenerative potential makes them suitable candidates for repairing damaged heart tissue caused by cardiovascular diseases. Stem cells can also stimulate the body's repair mechanisms, such as promoting the growth of new blood vessels (angiogenesis) and reducing inflammation, which are essential processes for repairing damaged cardiac tissue. As the prevalence of cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) increases, the demand for stem cells is also expected to grow. According to the National Library of Medicine, in Middle Eastern countries, CVDs are a leading cause of death and account for 40% of mortality in the UAE.

The Abu Dhabi Stem Cell Center is one of the leading stem cell research centers in Middle East, and its collaboration with other national institutes has played a significant role in driving the Middle East stem cell market forward. By partnering with other institutes, the Center has been able to leverage the expertise of different researchers, share resources, and collaborate on research projects to advance the field and develop new treatments for patients. For instance, in December 2021, the Abu Dhabi Stem Cells Centre collaborated with the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases of the U.S. The collaboration aimed to develop research partnerships in response to unique scientific opportunities related to infectious and non-communicable diseases, prevalent in the UAE and the world.

Market Concentration & Characteristics

The Middle East stem cell market has witnessed significant innovation in recent years. Advancements in technology and the increasing availability of funding have also contributed to the market growth. With the continued focus on research and development (R&D), the regional market is expected to continue to grow and innovate in the coming years.

In recent years, there has been a significant increase in the level of M&A (mergers and acquisitions) activities in the market. For instance, in January 2024, PureHealth, the largest healthcare platform in Middle East, completed the acquisition of Circle Health Group. Through the acquisition, with a presence in Middle East and the UK, PureHealth is expected to play a key role in bridging the gap between regulatory frameworks in these regions by streamlining the approval process for stem cell therapies.

The stem cell market in Middle East has been impacted by regulations that vary from country to country. Some countries have implemented strict regulations that make it difficult for stem cell therapies to be developed and used, while others have more lenient regulations that allow for greater innovation in the field. This has impacted the regulations that can make it challenging for companies to navigate the market.

Companies operating in the market are expanding their product portfolios by developing stem cell therapies for a broader range of therapeutic applications. They are investing in the development of advanced cell therapies, such as chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T-cell therapy and mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) therapy, to address complex diseases and unmet medical needs in the Middle East.

Several companies from other regions are expanding their presence in the Middle East market for stem cells. The companies from the U.S., Europe, and Asia are collaborating with local research institutions to develop novel stem cell-based therapies for the Middle Eastern population.

End-user Insights

The pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies segment held the largest market share of 52.0% in 2023. Pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies could increase their investment in stem cell research and development, leading to the discovery and commercialization of novel stem cell-based therapies. In addition, the regional governments, particularly UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Qatar are dedicating notable funds to develop robust infrastructure for R&D in life sciences, including stem cell therapy. This funding fuels partnerships between private and public institutions, attracting talent and fostering innovation. Leading companies such as PureHealth are strategically acquiring international entities like Circle Health Group, UK, expanding their expertise and geographical reach. This enables them to access global knowledge, technologies, and resources, further propelling their stem cell research and development.

The hospitals & cell banks segment is expected to grow at a significant CAGR from 2024 to 2030. There is a growing demand for stem cell therapy in Middle East driven by the rising prevalence of chronic diseases, the aging population, and awareness about regenerative medicine. Hospitals are at the forefront of providing these therapies to patients, leading to an expansion of stem cell services within healthcare facilities. Many hospitals are establishing specialized centers or departments dedicated to stem cell research and therapy. These centers offer a wide range of stem cell-based treatments for various medical conditions, attracting patients seeking advanced regenerative medicine options. These factors are expected to boost the market.

Product Insights

The Adult Stem Cells (ASCs) segment dominated with the largest revenue share of 81.66% in 2023, due to the increasing prevalence of chronic diseases and the demand for regenerative medicine. Adult stem cells have a wide range of applications in treating various medical conditions such as cancer, autoimmune diseases, and cardiovascular disorders. Additionally, the growing investments in R&D activities are expected to boost further the growth of the segment. There is no risk of graft rejection in the case of adult stem cells. The development of cell banking services and advancements in bio-preservation and cryopreservation are expected to further boost the demand for adult stem cells. Reduced risk factor and lesser ethical concerns surrounding adult stem cells further propel the segment’s growth.

The induced pluripotent stem (iPS) cells segment is expected to grow at the highest CAGR from 2024 to 2030, owing to the potential of these cells to advance drug development and clinical research significantly. The ability of iPS cells to link disease properties with the physiology of defined cells in order to explore the genetic linkage between diseases and patients for drug discovery is expected to positively influence the segment’s growth. The availability of human Pluripotent Stem Cells (PSCs), which are self-renewing and have the potential to differentiate into virtually any cell type, can help in overcoming the limitations of animal model disorders. Cultured PSCs can be used to model human diseases, which has changed the ways of studying complex, epigenetic, and monogenic disorders for both early as well as late-onset diseases. Several strategies are being used to derive therapies for such diseases by using patient-specific induced PSCs to create new possibilities for the establishment of models and their applicability in drug screening.

Application Insights

The regenerative medicine segment dominated the market with the larger share in 2023 and is expected grow at a CAGR of 7.43% from 2024 to 2030, owing to the growing adoption & ongoing development of companion diagnostics & personalized medicine for usage in oncology and other chronic infections. The International Space Station National Lab is engaged in the field of regenerative medicine, which includes discovering the advantages of stem cell research in the environment of microgravity for therapeutic applications, as microgravity enables delicate tissues to advance and strengthen without disintegrating. Moreover, continuous research involving the use of pluripotent as well as non-pluripotent stem cells for the introduction of a breakthrough technology to eradicate tumors and develop transplant methodologies is among the few factors expected to further fuel the growth.

The drug discovery and development segment is expected to grow at a higher CAGR over the forecast period. Benefits associated with the use of stem cells, such as the ability to identify lead candidates for clinical development and to introduce them as drugs, are expected to fuel the segment’s growth. For instance, in October 2022, Cleveland Clinic researchers conducted collaborative research to identify the possibility of treating atrial fibrillation with metformin. The study supported metformin similar to a drug repurposing candidate. The research was awarded a USD 14.2 million grant to support the investigational study on the drug. Researchers are anticipated to use heart cells from human stem cells to assess metformin’s impact on gene expression.

Technology Insights

In 2023, the cell acquisition segment held the largest market share of 35.4%. A growing number of market players offering cell acquisition services and an increase in collaborations & acquisitions among them portray the lucrative growth of this segment. Similarly, formalization of payment and reimbursement for transplant and organ acquisition is anticipated to positively impact demand for cell acquisition.

The cell production segment is anticipated to witness substantial growth in the forthcoming years, owing to the introduction of novel reagents and kits that are useful for optimizing the production of stem cells. It involves advanced manufacturing technology for the quantitation of stem cells and the incorporation of improvements using multi-cellular therapy. Moreover, protocols required for optimizing the stem cell yield are anticipated to contribute to the revenue growth in this segment.

Therapy Insights

In 2023, the allogenic segment held the larger market share of 59%. Allogeneic stem cell therapies are readily available and accessible in the Middle East, making them a preferred choice for patients seeking stem cell treatments. These therapies can be obtained from stem cell banks or donor registries, allowing patients to access treatment without the need for autologous stem cell collection. Furthermore, the companies operating in Middle East are investing in the development and commercialization of allogeneic stem cell therapies, driving innovation and advancements in the field. For instance, Pluristem Therapeutics is an Israel-based company that develops allogeneic placental-derived stem cell therapies for various indications such as muscle regeneration, ischemic diseases, and inflammatory conditions.

The autologous segment is expected to grow at a higher CAGR during the forecast period. Owing to the increase in awareness among people and the rise in adoption of private stem cell banking services, the segment is anticipated to exhibit lucrative growth over the forecast period. Technological advancements have made autologous stem cell therapies more accessible and feasible in the Middle East. Improved cell isolation and processing techniques, along with advancements in tissue engineering and gene editing technologies, have enhanced the efficacy and safety of autologous therapies.

Country Insights

The Middle East stem cell market is expected to experience significant growth in the coming years. Factors such as increased investments in healthcare infrastructure and research initiatives, rising prevalence of chronic diseases, and demand for regenerative medicine are expected to drive the growth. Countries within the GCC, such as the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Qatar, have been actively investing in healthcare infrastructure and research initiatives, including stem cell research. Governments in these countries have established research centers, partnerships with international institutions, and funding programs to support stem cell research and therapy development. Universities and research institutions in the Middle East, such as King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST) in Saudi Arabia, Weill Cornell Medicine-Qatar (WCM-Q), and Hamad Bin Khalifa University (HBKU) in Qatar, are conducting research and collaborating with industry partners to advance stem cell therapies.

Saudi Arabia Stem Cell Market Trends

The stem cell market in the Saudi Arabia held the largest market share of 41.96% in 2023. The leading Saudi research institutes with established stem cell research activities are located at King Saud University, King Abdulaziz University, King Khaled University, King Faisal Research Center, and King Abdullah International Medical Research Centre, King Saud bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences (KSAU- HS). King Abdulaziz City primarily funds stem cell research in Saudi Arabia for Science and Technology (KACST). In addition, each university and research institute have its internal research funding program. Much of the research focuses on basic stem cell biology, although several groups are performing clinical research and conducting clinical trials.

Kuwait Stem Cell Market Trends

The stem cell market in Kuwait held a significant share in 2023. The Kuwaiti government is actively supporting stem cell research and development through funding initiatives, infrastructure development, and favorable regulatory frameworks. For instance, in June 2019, the KIPCO Group inaugurated the Salwa Al Sabah Stem Cell and Umbilical Cord Center. The center can contribute to advancing stem cell research in the region and potentially offering new treatment options for patients with various medical conditions.

Key Middle East Stem Cell Company Insights

The market players are adopting product approval to increase the reach of their products in the market and improve the availability of their products & services in diverse geographical areas, along with expansion as a strategy to enhance production/research activities. In addition, several market players are acquiring smaller players to strengthen their market position. This strategy enables companies to increase their capabilities, expand their product portfolios, and improve their competencies.

Recent Developments

• In January 2024, The Abu Dhabi Stem Cells Center (ADSCC) announced a research agreement with two partners, Kyoto University's Center for iPS Cell Research and Application (CiRA) and Rege Nephro. This collaboration aims to develop innovative treatments for diabetes using pancreatic beta cells derived from iPS cells. These cells have the potential to offer significant advantages over current diabetes treatments.

• In September 2023, the Abu Dhabi government approved initiatives aimed at utilizing human stem cells and tissues for the advancement of personalized medical research. This project establishes a biobank to facilitate the delivery of tailored medical care through sophisticated treatment protocols leveraging human stem cells and tissues for research purposes.

• In September 2023, Scientists in Israel have constructed a model of a human embryo in the laboratory using stem cells rather than sperm, eggs, or a womb, providing a rare view into the early phases of embryonic development.

• In September 2023, BioLineRx announces the FDA approval of APHEXDA (motixafortide) and Filgrastim (G-CSF) for the mobilization of hematopoietic stem cells for patients with multiple myeloma for collection as well as subsequent autologous transplantation.

• In April 2023, Gamida Cell announced that its allogeneic cell therapy, Omisirge, has been granted approval by the U.S. FDA for utilization in adult and pediatric patients aged 12 years and older who are confronting hematologic malignancies. This approval is founded on data from a worldwide, randomized Phase 3 clinical trial, marking it as the inaugural allogeneic stem cell transplant therapy to achieve such recognition.

Middle East Stem Cells Market Report Scope

Middle East Stem Cells Market Report Segmentation

This report forecasts revenue growth and provides an analysis of the latest trends in each of the sub-segments from 2018 to 2030. For this report, Grand View Research has segmented the Middle East stem cell market report based on product, application, technology, therapy, end-user, and region:

• Product Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2018 - 2030)

  • Adult Stem Cells (ASCs)

    • Adult Stem Cells (ASCs)

    • Hematopoietic

    • Mesenchymal

    • Neural

    • Epithelial/Skin

    • Others

  • Human Embryonic Stem Cells (HESCs)

  • Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells (iPSCs)

  • Very Small Embryonic Like Stem Cells

• Application Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2018 - 2030)

  • Regenerative Medicine

    • Neurology

    • Orthopedics

    • Oncology

    • Hematology

    • Cardiovascular and Myocardial Infraction

    • Injuries

    • Diabetes

    • Liver Disorder

    • Incontinence

    • Others

  • Drug Discovery and Development

• Technology Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2018 - 2030)

  • Cell Acquisition

    • Bone Marrow Harvest

    • Umbilical Blood Cord

    • Apheresis

  • Cell Production

    • Therapeutic Cloning

    • In-vitro Fertilization

    • Cell Culture

    • Isolation

  • Cryopreservation

  • Expansion and Sub-Culture

• Therapy Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2018 - 2030)

  • Autologous

  • Allogenic

• End-user Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2018 - 2030)

  • Pharmaceutical and Biotechnology Companies

  • Hospitals & Cell Banks

  • Academic & Research Institutes

• Regional Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2018 - 2030)

  • Saudi Arabia

  • UAE

  • Kuwait

  • Israel