Clinical Research in the Middle East & Africa: A Conversation with Alaa Assem from CTI

Alaa Assem, Managing Director for CTI in the Europe & MEA regions, joins us to discuss the evolution of clinical trials in the Middle East and Africa. With over a decade of experience in pharma and CROs, Alaa shares how CTI has built a strong regional presence, the impact of COVID-19, and why sponsors should consider the region for future trials.Topics Covered:CTI’s history and expansion in the Middle East & AfricaLocal expertise and regulatory evolutionVaccine research and biotech investmentGene therapy, AI, and the future of clinical trialsClick Here for more Info about CTI in the MEA RegionTimestamps:00:00 – Meet Alaa and his background00:56 – CTI’s regional roots and growth02:19 – Why local presence matters03:20 – Clinical research evolution in the region05:02 – COVID-19’s transformative impact06:44 – Vaccine research and biotech hubs08:33 – Advice for sponsors entering the region10:33 – Changing perceptions and realities12:52 – CTI’s readiness and expansion strategy14:06 – Future growth and innovation15:42 – Alaa’s excitement for the future of research