213 inventors to gather in Kuwait for 16th International Exhibition of Inventions

Talal Al-Kharafi, Chairman of the Scientific Club and head of the Supreme Committee for the International Exhibition of Inventions in the Middle East, announced that preparations have been completed for the launch of the 16th edition of the exhibition next Sunday. The event will be held under the patronage of His Highness the Crown Prince Sheikh Sabah Khaled Al-Hamad Al-Sabah, with support from the Kuwait Foundation for the Advancement of Sciences (KFAS) and the participation of 213 inventors from countries around the world.

Speaking at a press conference at the club’s headquarters, Al-Kharafi said the exhibition, which runs until February 11, has become a distinguished international scientific platform. He noted that the steadily rising number of participants and sponsors reflects the strong reputation the event has built locally, regionally, and globally, reports Al-Rai daily.

This year’s edition features inventors from diverse scientific and technological fields, many of whom aim to market their innovations and move toward manufacturing and commercialization. Al-Kharafi emphasized that the club works annually to turn the exhibition’s slogan — “meeting investors with inventors” — into a practical reality.

He welcomed the Union of Kuwaiti Investment Companies, which is participating for the first time with a dedicated pavilion. The move is expected to create direct channels between inventors and investors, helping transform ideas into products and opening opportunities in both local and international markets.

Al-Kharafi also highlighted the continued participation of organizations affiliated with the League of Arab States, which are allocating prizes to support Arab innovators for the second consecutive year. The Gulf Cooperation Council General Secretariat has also presented three awards for Gulf inventors, reflecting strong regional backing for innovation.

The exhibition enjoys the support of major international organizations, including the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO), the International Federation of Inventors’ Associations (IFIA), and UNESCO, which together are offering financial prizes totaling about $60,000.

Al-Kharafi said WIPO’s ongoing involvement underscores its commitment to promoting a culture of innovation and contributes positively to the exhibition’s success. He expressed gratitude to the Crown Prince for his patronage and to strategic partners, particularly KFAS.

He also praised the exhibition’s judging panel, led by David Farouki, which includes 65 members from leading universities and scientific bodies known for their impartiality and integrity.

Faisal Sarkhouh, Vice Chairman of the Union of Investment Companies, said the union’s first-time participation stems from a clear vision to strengthen links between innovation and investment while empowering creative youth.

He described the exhibition as a respected global platform that connects innovators with institutions capable of turning inventions into viable projects, urging investment firms and economic sectors to support the event as an opportunity to explore financing and marketing partnerships.

Abdulrahman Al-Fadala, Treasurer of the Scientific Club and member of the exhibition’s Supreme Committee, thanked government ministries and institutions — particularly the Ministries of Foreign Affairs, Commerce, and Interior — for their cooperation and for facilitating the organization of the international event.

The press conference was attended by Sheikha Sheikha Jarrah Al-Sabah, Vice Chairperson of the Scientific Club’s Board; David Farouki, Head of the Arbitration Committee; Saja Al-Fadala, Head of the Youth and Science Sector; Fadwa Darwish, Secretary-General of the Union of Investment Companies; and several members of the exhibition’s Supreme Committee.