International Diabetes Federation - MENA Region

The regional office for the International Diabetes Federation (IDF) for the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) was inaugurated in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, on Saturday, January 3, 2026, as a collaborative effort between the Saudi Diabetes Charitable Association (SCAD) and the IDF. The agreement was signed by His Excellency Professor Mohamed Ali Al-Toum on behalf of the IDF-MENA region and His Excellency Mr. Abdul Aziz bin Saad Al-Humaidi on behalf of the Saudi Diabetes Charitable Association. The opening of this office represents a turning point in the path of regional cooperation, reflecting the evolution of the partnership towards broader horizons of institutional integration, based on a unified goal, the consolidation of shared values, and a commitment to serving humanity, particularly those living with diabetes. The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia continues to affirm its leading role in enhancing public health and humanitarian work, and Riyadh's hosting of the IDF regional office reinforces a message that regional cooperation based on science and humanity is the way to achieve permanent and sustainable change. This regional office serves as a new platform for coordination and a bridge connecting national associations with governmental bodies and international partners, thereby supporting the effectiveness of work and strengthening the link with the communities benefiting from our services.

History of Diabetes Associations in the MENA Region: A New (7th) IDF Region EMME - East Mediterranean and Middle-East was born in Madrid. In Madrid 1985, six IDF members in East Mediterranean and Middle-East area were invited to constitute the 7th IDF Region (EMME). The Pioneer Coalition: The EMME region was established by five core member countries: Egypt, Sudan, Tunisia, Iran, and Pakistan. 1- Egypt - member since 1964 2- Pakistan - 1967 3- Iran - 1969 4- Tunisia - before 1985 5- Sudan -1985 About MENA Region The International Diabetes Federation – Middle East and North Africa Region (IDF-MENA) is one of the seven regions of the International Diabetes Federation (IDF), a global alliance of over 240 national diabetes associations in more than 160 countries. The IDF-MENA Region represents member associations across the Middle East and North Africa, a region that faces one of the highest rates of diabetes worldwide. The Region is dedicated to improving the lives of people living with diabetes and those at risk through advocacy, education, research, and collaboration. Our Mission To promote diabetes prevention, care, and cure through education, advocacy, and partnership, empowering people living with diabetes and strengthening national responses to the growing diabetes epidemic across the MENA Region. Our Vision A region where all people with diabetes have access to the care, education, and support they need to live healthy and productive lives, and where diabetes prevention is a public health priority. Current Regional Structure Membership: The region represents nearly 38 diabetes organizations across 22 countries and territories. Leadership: The 2025–2027 regional leadership includes Regional Chair Mohamed Eltom from Sudan and Regional Chair-Elect Mesbah Kamel from Egypt. Impact: Member associations coordinate local advocacy, healthcare training, and awareness campaigns like World Diabetes Day