The World Council of Optometry (WCO) is excited to announce the 6th World Congress of Optometry (WCO6), which will be held in collaboration with the Saudi Society of Optometry (SSO) its 11th Optometry Conference and Exhibition (SSO 2026). The event is set to take place November 2026 in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
“The 11th Conference of the Saudi Society of Optometry (SSO 2026) and the 6th World Congress of Optometry (WCO6) will bring together global vision leaders in Riyadh, located at the crossroads of the Eastern Mediterranean region,” says Dr. Waleed M. Alghamdi, President of the Saudi Society of Optometry. “Together, we are dedicated to advancing optometric education, research, and innovation, while strengthening international collaborations that will shape the future of eye care.”
The joint event will feature expert-led discussions, poster presentations, interactive workshops, and valuable networking opportunities, alongside a comprehensive selection of optometric continuing education (CE) courses. These offerings will highlight the latest advancements and trends in the field. SSO’s annual conference is recognized as the largest gathering of optometry professionals in the Eastern Mediterranean region.
“This marks the first time that the WCO will host a World Congress in the Eastern Mediterranean region,” shares Dr. Cindy Tromans, WCO President-Elect. “This exciting event will showcase the latest developments in optometric education, research, and innovation. We invite optometrists from around the world to join us in collaborating to advance our profession.”
“The 6th World Congress of Optometry in Saudi Arabia represents a historic milestone for the Eastern Mediterranean region, demonstrating our commitment to advancing optometry, eye care, and global collaboration,” says Ameer Abou Adela, WCO Geographic Representative for the Eastern Mediterranean region. “This congress will reinforce the pivotal role of optometry in creating a future where quality eye health and vision care are accessible and equitable for all.”
The Saudi Society of Optometry (SSO), a nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing optometry in Saudi Arabia, is a proud Country Member of the World Council of Optometry (WCO). SSO is committed to professional development, public awareness, accredited continuing education, and community support.
For more information about the 6th World Congress of Optometry and 11th Conference of the Saudi Society of Optometry, please email enquires@worldoptometry.org or advocacy@sso.org.sa. This landmark event promises to be a transformative experience for optometry professionals worldwide. We look forward to welcoming attendees to Riyadh in November 2026 as we work together to shape the future of eye care and vision health. More details will be shared soon.
About the World Council of Optometry
The World Council of Optometry (WCO) is an international membership-based non-profit organization for individual optometrists, industry professionals, and optometric organizations, that envisions a world with high-quality, accessible eye health and vision care for all people. Its mission is to advance and promote optometry, global eye health and vision care through collaboration, education, and advocacy. To learn more, please visit www.worldcouncilofoptometry.info or follow us on LinkedIn, Facebook, X, and Instagram.
About the Saudi Society of Optometry
Operating under the Saudi Commission for Health Specialties (Decision No. 8/A/28), the Saudi Society of Optometry (SSO) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing optometry and vision science in Saudi Arabia. As the leading provider of professional development and continuing education for eye care professionals, SSO plays a key role in improving clinical standards, regulatory frameworks, and eye health awareness. To learn more, please visit www.sso.org.sa or follow SSO on Facebook, LinkedIn, X, and Instagram.
Media Contacts
Allison Bartnick, Marketing and Communications Associate
World Council of Optometry
Dr. Lama Alsamnan, Board Member
Saudi Society of Optometry