<p>Graphene oxide (GO) functionalized with carbohydrate molecules has emerged as a promising platform for biomedical and analytical applications due to its enhanced biocompatibility, targeted binding capabilities, and unique physicochemical properties. This review explores the synergistic effects of saccharide functionalization on GO composites, highlighting significant advancements in their dispersibility, chemical stability, and specific interactions with biomolecules. Mannose, chitosan, cellulose, hyaluronic acid, and galactose are identified as key ligands that enhance cellular recognition, targeted drug delivery, biosensing, and imaging capabilities. Notable results from recent studies demonstrate the remarkable potential of saccharide-functionalized GO composites in improving wound healing, antibacterial coatings, and drug delivery systems. The review also discusses the promising applications of these composites in biosensing, where they offer highly selective and sensitive detection capabilities. The exploration of these versatile composites in real-world biomedical and analytical settings underscores their growing utility and the future potential of GO functionalization in creating efficient, selective, and robust materials for a wide range of applications.</p> Graphical Abstract <p></p>