Dr. Saad completed his undergraduate and M.Sc. studies in Biochemistry at the Faculty of Science, Ain Shams University in Egypt. He went on to obtain his Ph.D. degree in molecular biology from the University of Geneva (UNIGE) in Switzerland. Following his studies, he continued his research as a Post-doctoral fellow at the French National Institute for Agricultural Research (INRA). In 2008, he joined the Microbiology Unit at the Faculty of Science, the University of Geneva as a Research Scientist.

In mid-2014, Dr. Saad relocated to the Middle East and joined KAUST. His research focuses on developing various biological solutions, such as desert microbes, to address constraints on agricultural production in arid and semi-arid ecosystems. These constraints may include soil health, low yield, abiotic and biotic stresses, and nutrient assimilation. Dr. Saad also emphasizes the precision formulation and application of these biological solutions, known as "biostimulants", based on factors such as soil type, plant type, and climate conditions. By optimizing efficacy and returns, this approach has the potential to transform deserts into sustainable agricultural systems and contribute to re-planting efforts in desert areas.