Saudi health technology company SDM has secured the runner-up position in the London Business School MENA Startup Competition 2026, receiving US$15,000 to support its development. The company is working on artificial intelligence tools that help identify chronic disease earlier. Its current work addresses difficulties faced by people with diabetes who need specialist eye examinations.

SDM’s SAARIA technology can produce eye-test results within minutes without a physician being present at the examination site. The approach aims to improve access for rural and underserved communities. Founder and chairman Selwa Al-Hazzaa said her experience as an ophthalmologist helped her recognise delays in getting medical expertise to patients.

The business plans to use its prize money to expand operations and investigate further healthcare applications. Alongside diabetic eye disease, it is developing tools to identify early warning indicators associated with hypertension, stroke and Alzheimer’s disease. These applications are intended to support earlier intervention.

Co-founder and chief executive Naif Al-Obaidallah thanked the competition organisers for their mentorship and support. UAE environmental technology company Persium won first place, while Frank AI finished third. SDM’s result places its work among the competition’s leading regional ventures. The company said the recognition encouraged its team to continue developing healthcare solutions.