BUCARAMANGA, Colombia: Saudi Arabia has strengthened its standing in international science education after its national physics team secured five awards at the 56th International Physics Olympiad (IPhO) in Colombia, while the Kingdom also won the right to host the prestigious global competition in 2027.
The International Physics Olympiad, held in Bucaramanga from July 4 to 12, brought together 381 secondary school students from 87 countries, providing a platform for some of the world’s brightest young physicists to compete.
According to the Saudi Press Agency (SPA), with the latest achievement, Saudi Arabia’s overall record at the International Physics Olympiad has risen to eight silver medals, 26 bronze medals and 23 certificates of recognition, reflecting the country’s growing success in global scientific competitions.
🔴 #السعودية تفوز باستضافة أولمبياد الفيزياء الدولي 2027
فازت المملكة باستضافة النسخة السابعة والخمسين من #أولمبياد_الفيزياء_الدولي 2027 بعد اعتماد المجلس الدولي ملفها.
يأتي الفوز امتدادًا لنجاح #المملكة في استضافة الأولمبيادات العلمية وترسيخ مكانتها وجهة عالمية للأحداث… pic.twitter.com/Kw3UppvCIU
— التعليم السعودي (@SaudiED) July 12, 2026
The award-winning students underwent an extensive preparation programme organised by the King Abdulaziz and His Companions Foundation for Giftedness and Creativity (Mawhiba).
Participants were selected through the National Science and Mathematics Olympiad before progressing to specialised training camps and intensive coaching delivered by Saudi and international experts under the Mawhiba International Olympiad Programme.
In another significant milestone, the International Physics Olympiad Board approved Saudi Arabia’s bid to host the 57th edition of the competition in 2027 during this year’s event in Colombia.
The successful bid further strengthens the Kingdom’s reputation for organising major international scientific events.
Riyadh hosted the 56th International Chemistry Olympiad in July 2024, attracting 333 students from 90 countries, while Dhahran welcomed 240 students from 30 Asian nations during the 25th Asian Physics Olympiad in May 2025.
Saudi Arabia is also preparing to host the third International Nuclear Science Olympiad (INSO 2026) in Jeddah from August 2 to 9, underscoring its growing role as a global venue for science and innovation competitions.
Saudi officials said the decision to award the 2027 Olympiad to the Kingdom reflects increasing international confidence in the country’s organisational capabilities, scientific infrastructure and commitment to advancing education and research.
Hosting the event also aligns with the objectives of Saudi Vision 2030 and the Human Capability Development Programme, which seek to invest in young talent, encourage innovation and strengthen the Kingdom’s transition towards a knowledge-based economy.
Meanwhile, Mawhiba continues to play a central role in nurturing gifted students in science, technology and innovation. Earlier this month, the Ministries of Education and Industry and Mineral Resources launched the 2026 Mawhiba Summer Programme across 19 Saudi cities, as well as at partner institutions overseas.
The initiative offers 88 enrichment programmes benefiting more than 12,000 students through specialised training in scientific research, academic enrichment, technology, game development and leadership.
The courses focus on four strategic national priorities: human health, energy and industry, environmental sustainability, and future economies, supporting Saudi Arabia’s long-term research, development and innovation agenda.
