Saudi Arabia has secured five awards at the 56th International Physics Olympiad in Colombia while also winning the right to host the global competition in 2027.
The Olympiad was held in Bucaramanga from July 4 to 12, bringing together 381 secondary school students from 87 countries.
The latest results add to Saudi Arabia’s growing record in the competition, taking its cumulative tally at the International Physics Olympiad to eight silver medals, 26 bronze medals and 23 certificates of recognition.
The Saudi team’s preparation followed a long training process led by the King Abdulaziz and His Companions Foundation for Giftedness and Creativity, known as Mawhiba, the Saudi Press Agency reported.
Students first advanced through the National Science and Mathematics Olympiad before joining specialised training camps and intensive coaching sessions with Saudi and international experts under the Mawhiba International Olympiad Programme.
Saudi Arabia’s bid to host the 57th International Physics Olympiad in 2027 was approved by the Olympiad board during this year’s event in Colombia.
The decision adds to the Kingdom’s growing role in hosting major science competitions. Riyadh hosted the 56th International Chemistry Olympiad in July 2024, with 333 students from 90 countries taking part.
Dhahran also hosted the 25th Asian Physics Olympiad in May 2025, which brought together 240 students from 30 Asian countries.
Saudi Arabia is also preparing to host the third International Nuclear Science Olympiad in Jeddah from August 2 to 9.
Saudi officials said the award of the 2027 Physics Olympiad reflects international confidence in the Kingdom’s ability to organise major scientific events and its expanding educational and research infrastructure.
Hosting the event also supports Saudi Vision 2030 and the Human Capability Development Programme by backing young talent, encouraging innovation and strengthening the country’s knowledge-based economy.