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30th
of August
2008

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The history of liver disease expertise in Saudi Arabia is rooted in the collaborative efforts of specialists who have long shared knowledge and presented clinical research data locally, particularly through the activities of the Saudi Gastroenterology Association, established in 1988. With the field's continuous growth, it became increasingly clear that a dedicated association focusing solely on liver diseases was essential. While this idea had been considered by many professionals for some time, it only recently came to fruition through diligent efforts.

After numerous strategic meetings and in-depth discussions among key physicians, a decision was made to establish an independent association. Consulting with a broad range of stakeholders ensured that all relevant ideas and perspectives were incorporated into the initiative. These efforts culminated in the formation of the Saudi Association for the Study of Liver Diseases & Transplantation (SASLT), which was officially recognized under the umbrella of the Saudi Commission for Health Specialties after meeting all regulatory requirements.

On August 30, 2008, this vision became a reality when the first General Assembly convened and elected the inaugural Executive Board tasked with establishing the foundation for the new association. The board's responsibilities included developing strategic initiatives to advance SASLT’s mission and engaging the medical community through collaborative partnerships.

The first year of SASLT's operations was dedicated to addressing logistical matters and launching an official website to connect with both current and prospective members effectively. The Executive Board emphasized the importance of collaborative teamwork with all stakeholders and sought to foster partnerships with national and international organizations to achieve shared objectives.

While the potential for progress was significant, the Executive Board recognized that the success of the society would depend on the active participation and contributions of medical professionals across Saudi Arabia and the wider Gulf and Arab regions.

In response to a directive from the Saudi Commission for Health Specialties (SCFHS), the association’s name was changed to the Saudi Society for Liver Disease and Transplantation. It is now affiliated with the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development. Despite this change, the original acronym, SASLT, was retained to maintain its established international recognition.