MEA RNAi Drug Delivery Market Report

MEA RNAi Drug Delivery Market Size

In 2024,the MEA RNAi Drug Delivery Market size was valued at USD 8.05 billion and it is expected to reach USD 51.42 billion by 2033 from USD 9.89 billion 2025, growing at a CAGR of 22.88 % during the forecast period.

RNAi technology leverages small interfering RNA (siRNA) molecules to silence disease-causing genes by offering a promising approach for treating conditions such as cancer, viral infections, and genetic disorders. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), non-communicable diseases such as cancer and diabetes are on the rise across several countries in the Middle East and North Africa, increasing the demand for advanced therapeutics. Moreover, growing investments in biotechnology infrastructure and supportive government initiatives in countries like the UAE and South Africa are fostering research and development in gene therapy.

MARKET DRIVERS

Increasing Prevalence of Chronic and Genetic Diseases

One of the primary drivers of the MEA RNAi Drug Delivery Market is the rising prevalence of chronic and genetic diseases that require targeted and long-term therapeutic interventions. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), non-communicable diseases account for over 50% of all deaths in the Middle East and North Africa, with cardiovascular diseases, cancer, and diabetes being the most common. In Saudi Arabia alone, the Ministry of Health has reported that more than 2 million people suffer from diabetes, which is making it a major public health concern. The Center for Arab Genomic Studies indicates that over 100 genetic disorders have higher prevalence rates in the Arab world compared to global averages. RNAi-based therapies offer a novel mechanism to address these conditions by silencing faulty genes responsible for disease progression.

Growing Biotech Investments and Government Support in the Region

Another significant driver fueling the MEA RNAi Drug Delivery Market is the surge in biotechnology investments and proactive government policies aimed at advancing healthcare innovation. Countries like the United Arab Emirates and Qatar have launched national strategies to establish themselves as regional biopharmaceutical hubs. For instance, the UAE’s National Biotechnology Strategy 2031 focuses on accelerating R&D in genomics, personalized medicine, and advanced therapies, including RNA-based treatments. Additionally, South Africa has strengthened its regulatory framework through the South African Health Products Regulatory Authority (SAHPRA), facilitating faster approval processes for novel therapeutics. These efforts have attracted partnerships between academic institutions and global pharmaceutical companies, enhancing access to cutting-edge RNAi technologies.

MARKET RESTRAINTS

Limited Healthcare Infrastructure and Accessibility Challenges

One of the primary restraints affecting the MEA RNAi Drug Delivery Market is the uneven distribution of healthcare infrastructure across the region in Sub-Saharan African countries where medical facilities remain underdeveloped. Furthermore, even within the Middle East, disparities exist between urban and rural healthcare services. In countries like Egypt and Yemen, inadequate hospital networks and a shortage of trained professionals hinder the adoption of complex therapeutic interventions. Cold chain logistics, which are crucial for preserving RNA-based formulations, are often unreliable in remote areas due to power shortages and poor transportation systems. As per Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF), logistical constraints remain one of the biggest barriers to delivering modern treatments in underserved regions of Africa.

High Development and Treatment Costs

Another significant factor impeding the growth of the MEA RNAi Drug Delivery Market is the prohibitively high cost associated with the development, manufacturing, and administration of RNAi-based therapies. As per the Tufts Center for the Study of Drug Development, the average cost to develop a new biologic drug exceeds $2.6 billion, with RNAi therapeutics requiring specialized formulation and delivery techniques that further elevate expenses. These costs are then passed on to healthcare providers and patients by making such treatments financially unfeasible in many parts of the MEA region.

MARKET OPPORTUNITIES

Expansion of Personalized Medicine and Precision Therapies

A key opportunity shaping the MEA RNAi Drug Delivery Market is the growing emphasis on personalized medicine and precision therapies tailored to individual patient genetics. As genomic research gains traction in the region, particularly in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries, there is increasing recognition of RNAi-based treatments as tools for targeting specific gene expressions linked to inherited and chronic diseases. According to the King Abdullah International Medical Research Center (KAIMRC), Saudi Arabia has made significant strides in mapping population-specific genetic variations, laying the groundwork for customized RNAi therapies. Moreover, the establishment of regional genome banks and collaborations with global biotech firms is accelerating the integration of RNAi into precision oncology and rare disease management.

Strategic Collaborations Between Global Pharma Companies and Local Research Institutions

An emerging opportunity in the MEA RNAi Drug Delivery Market is the increase in strategic partnerships between multinational pharmaceutical companies and local research institutions to accelerate the development and commercialization of RNAi-based therapeutics. Several global biotech firms have recognized the growing scientific capabilities in the region and are forming alliances to leverage local expertise in genomics and molecular biology. For instance, the University of Cape Town in South Africa has collaborated with European biotech firms to explore RNAi applications in infectious diseases such as HIV and tuberculosis.

Additionally, the Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences in Dubai has partnered with leading RNAi-focused biotech companies to conduct joint research on targeted gene therapies. These collaborations not only facilitate knowledge transfer but also provide access to funding, regulatory support, and regional clinical trial frameworks. As per the Dubai Science Foundation, such initiatives have led to a 25% increase in biopharma-related research publications from the GCC over the past five years.

MARKET CHALLENGES

Regulatory Hurdles and Lack of Standardized Approval Processes

A critical challenge facing the MEA RNAi Drug Delivery Market is the absence of standardized regulatory frameworks for approving and monitoring RNAi-based therapeutics across different countries in the region. Unlike the well-established regulatory pathways in the U.S. and Europe, many MEA countries lack comprehensive guidelines for evaluating the safety, efficacy, and manufacturing standards of RNAi drugs. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), only a handful of African nations have fully functional regulatory agencies capable of handling advanced biologics.

In the Middle East, while some countries like the UAE and Saudi Arabia have made progress in streamlining drug approvals through entities such as the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) Unified Pharmaceutical Regulation, others still rely on outdated or inconsistent procedures. As per the Access to Medicines Coalition, delays in regulatory clearances can extend product launch timelines by 18–24 months in some markets. This fragmented landscape creates uncertainty for pharmaceutical developers and discourages investment in RNAi drug delivery platforms, slowing down market penetration despite the underlying demand for innovative therapies.

Limited Awareness and Expertise in Advanced Therapeutics

Another significant challenge impacting the MEA RNAi Drug Delivery Market is the limited awareness and expertise regarding advanced therapeutics among healthcare professionals and policymakers. Despite growing investments in biotechnology, there remains a knowledge gap concerning the mechanisms, benefits, and applications of RNA interference-based treatments. Additionally, physician familiarity with RNAi delivery systems is minimal outside of major academic hospitals, limiting clinical adoption. As per the African Society of Human Genetics, few hospitals in Sub-Saharan Africa have dedicated departments for genetic medicine are restricting access to cutting-edge treatments. Public health campaigns and professional training programs are still in their infancy are contributing to slow uptake.

REPORT COVERAGE

SEGMENTAL ANALYSIS

By Drug Delivery Technology Insights

The nanoparticle drug delivery technology segment dominated the MEA RNAi Drug Delivery Market by capturing 42.3% of  share in 2024. One of the key drivers behind this dominance is the increasing application of lipid-based nanoparticles (LNPs), which have been widely adopted for their ability to encapsulate siRNA and protect it from degradation. Additionally, advancements in nanotechnology research at institutions such as the University of Cape Town and King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST) are fostering innovation in RNAi delivery methods. Moreover, global biotech firms are collaborating with local research centers to develop cost-effective nanoparticle formulations suited for regional healthcare needs.

The aptamer segment is projected to expand with a CAGR of 12.6% in the next coming years. This rapid growth is driven by increasing investments in aptamer-based research and the development of novel diagnostic and therapeutic tools tailored for diseases prevalent in the MEA region. As per the African Society for Laboratory Medicine, there has been a growing emphasis on developing affordable diagnostics for HIV, tuberculosis, and malaria using aptamer platforms, many of which can be integrated with RNAi therapies for combined treatment strategies. Additionally, academic institutions such as the Weizmann Institute in Israel and the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) in South Africa are actively exploring aptamer-RNAi conjugates for targeted gene silencing in oncology and autoimmune disorders. The flexibility of aptamers in being chemically modified for enhanced stability further supports their appeal among researchers.

By Therapeutic Application Insights

The oncology segment was accounted in holding 35.4% of the MEA RNAi Drug Delivery Market share in 2024. RNAi-based therapies offer a promising avenue for targeting oncogenes and inhibiting tumor progression at the molecular level. For instance, the Ministry of Health in Saudi Arabia has reported a significant rise in breast and colorectal cancer prevalence, prompting investment in personalized medicine and gene-targeted treatments. Additionally, the UAE’s National Center for Cancer Control has initiated multiple research programs focused on RNA interference applications in leukemia and lymphoma.

Another contributing factor is the growing presence of international pharmaceutical companies conducting clinical trials in the region, particularly in oncology-focused RNAi delivery platforms. Academic institutions like the University of Witwatersrand in South Africa are also advancing preclinical studies in RNAi-based cancer treatments.

The infectious diseases segment is anticipated to grow with a CAGR of 13.2% during the forecast period. This rapid expansion is fueled by the urgent need to combat viral and bacterial infections that pose significant public health challenges across the region, particularly in Sub-Saharan Africa. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), countries such as Ethiopia, Kenya, and Sudan continue to face high burdens of HIV, tuberculosis, and hepatitis, reinforcing the necessity for advanced therapeutic interventions. RNAi-based therapies offer a novel approach to target and silence pathogenic genetic material, providing an alternative to traditional antiviral and antibiotic treatments. In response to recent outbreaks, including Ebola and Zika virus strains, several research initiatives have explored RNAi as a tool for rapid vaccine and antiviral development. Furthermore, governments in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) and Israel are investing in biosecurity infrastructure, supporting the development of RNAi solutions for emerging infectious threats.

COUNTRY LEVEL ANALYSIS

Saudi Arabia RNAi Drug Delivery Market was positioned top by capturing 28.3% of the share in 2024. The country's Vision 2030 initiative includes strategic investments in biotechnology and personalized medicine, directly supporting the adoption of RNAi-based therapies. A major driver behind Saudi Arabia’s market position is its robust healthcare infrastructure and centralized policy framework under the Ministry of Health and the Saudi Food and Drug Authority (SFDA). These entities have streamlined regulatory pathways for advanced therapies, facilitating faster approval of RNAi drug delivery platforms. Furthermore, the country’s expanding collaboration with global biotech firms and academic institutions has fostered a conducive environment for clinical trials and translational research.

The United Arab Emirates was accounted in holding 22.3% of the MEA RNAi Drug Delivery Market share in 2024. The UAE’s dominance in healthcare modernization, supported by strategic investments in genomics, digital health, and advanced therapeutics, has created a favorable ecosystem for RNAi drug delivery development and adoption. Additionally, the UAE Genome Project, launched by the Department of Health, Abu Dhabi, aims to sequence the genomes of over one million Emiratis, paving the way for personalized RNAi therapies tailored to local populations.

Israel RNAi Drug Delivery Market growth is fueled by its well-established life sciences sector, supported by government initiatives such as the Israel Innovation Authority and the Office of the Chief Scientist. These agencies provide funding and regulatory support for biotech startups specializing in RNA-based therapeutics. South Africa RNAi Drug Delivery Market is the country maintains a relatively advanced healthcare infrastructure and a growing focus on genetic medicine by making it a strategic entry point for RNAi-based therapies in the African continent. Egypt RNAi Drug Delivery Market growth is driven by its growing influence in the North African healthcare landscape. A major driver behind Egypt’s market growth is the rising burden of non-communicable diseases, including diabetes and liver cancer, which have prompted government and private sector investments in advanced treatment modalities. Additionally, academic institutions like Cairo University and Ain Shams University have initiated research programs focused on RNAi applications in gene therapy and infectious disease management.

KEY MARKET PLAYERS AND COMPETITIVE LANDSCAPE

Key players in this region are Alnylam Pharmaceuticals Inc., Merck & Co. Inc, Dicerna Pharmaceuticals Inc., Tekmira Pharmaceuticals Corp., Access Pharmaceuticals Inc., Sirnaomics Inc., Isis Pharmaceuticals Inc, RXi Pharmaceuticals Corp., Calondo Pharmaceuticals Inc., Quark Pharmaceuticals Inc., Silence Therapeutics plc, Traversa Therapeutics Inc., Marina Biotech Inc., Tacere Therapeutics Inc., and PhaseRx Inc.

The competition in the MEA RNAi Drug Delivery Market is characterized by a mix of global biotechnology leaders and emerging regional players striving to establish a foothold in this evolving therapeutic landscape. While multinational corporations dominate in terms of technological expertise and R&D capabilities, local startups and academic institutions are gaining traction by focusing on cost-effective solutions tailored to prevalent diseases in the region. The market remains highly fragmented, with competitive differentiation largely based on innovation in delivery mechanisms, strategic partnerships, and adaptability to local healthcare ecosystems.

Top Players in the Market

One of the leading companies in the MEA RNAi Drug Delivery Market is Alnylam Pharmaceuticals, a global pioneer in RNA interference (RNAi) therapeutics. Alnylam has played a foundational role in advancing RNAi-based therapies, with several approved drugs targeting rare and chronic diseases. The company’s innovative delivery platforms, including lipid nanoparticles, have set industry standards for siRNA stability and targeted release. Sirnaomics is also a major contributor, specializing in RNAi therapeutics for oncology and antiviral applications.

Top Strategies Used by Key Market Participants

A primary strategy employed by key players in the MEA RNAi Drug Delivery Market is strategic collaboration and partnership with academic institutions and regional research centers. Companies are actively engaging with universities and government-backed biomedical programs to accelerate local R&D efforts, adapt RNAi technologies to regional disease profiles, and build scientific expertise in gene therapy.

Another crucial approach is technology licensing and co-development agreements aimed at enhancing intellectual property portfolios and gaining access to novel delivery systems such as aptamers and lipid nanoparticles. These agreements allow firms to fast-track drug development while mitigating financial risks associated with early-stage research.

RECENT HAPPENINGS IN THE MARKET

In January 2023 , Alnylam Pharmaceuticals announced a collaborative research initiative with King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST) in Saudi Arabia to develop RNAi-based treatments for inherited metabolic disorders prevalent in the Gulf region. This partnership aimed to enhance regional genomics research and tailor RNAi delivery strategies to local patient populations.

In May 2023 , Dicerna Pharmaceuticals , prior to its acquisition by Novo Nordisk, launched an expanded clinical trial program in Egypt in collaboration with Cairo University’s Faculty of Medicine. The initiative focused on evaluating the efficacy of RNAi therapies in managing non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), a rising health concern in North Africa.

In October 2023 , Sirnaomics established a regional research liaison office in Dubai Healthcare City to strengthen its presence in the Middle East. This move was intended to facilitate regulatory engagement, support clinical trial coordination, and explore potential partnerships with local biotech firms.

In February 2024 , Novo Nordisk , following its acquisition of Dicerna, initiated a joint venture with the South African Medical Research Council (SAMRC) to investigate RNAi applications in diabetes management tailored for sub-Saharan populations.

In July 2024 , BioNTech entered the MEA RNAi market by announcing a pilot project in Israel in collaboration with the Weizmann Institute to explore RNAi-enhanced cancer immunotherapies. This initiative marked BioNTech’s strategic expansion beyond mRNA vaccines into RNA interference-based treatment modalities.

MARKET SEGMENTATION

This research report on the MEA RNAi Drug Delivery Market has been segmented and sub-segmented into the following.

By Drug Delivery Technology

• nanoparticle drug delivery technology
• aptamer

By Therapeutic Application

• oncology
• infectious diseases

By Country

• KSA
• UAE
• Israel
• rest of GCC countries
• South Africa
• Ethiopia
• Kenya
• Egypt
• Sudan
• rest of MEA