UAE: Mubadala’s KELIX Bio Strengthens Life Sciences In MENA With DiabTec Acquisition

Mubadala Investment Company, wholly owned by Mubadala Investment Company Mubadala, has recently expanded its influence in the life sciences sector by acquiring DiabTec LLC from Julphar. This move not only enriches Mubadala's collection of biological products but also marks a significant step towards enhancing biomanufacturing capabilities within the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region.

DiabTec, now under the umbrella of KELIX bio, a wholly owned subsidiary of Mubadala, operates a cutting-edge facility equipped with 20,000-litre reactors for drug substances and a separate unit for the cartridge fill-finish process of drug products. Adhering to EU/US FDA standards, this facility stands as the sole establishment of its kind within the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), highlighting the strategic importance of this acquisition.

This acquisition aligns with Mubadala's strategy of responsible investing, particularly addressing the rising global challenge of diabetes and the increasing demand for microbial-based products, including insulin analogues and GLP-1. These efforts are directed towards meeting the needs of the local and international markets, thereby contributing significantly to global healthcare solutions.

Dr. Bakheet Al Katheeri, Chief Executive Officer of Mubadala's UAE Investments Platform, emphasized the importance of this acquisition, stating, "The acquisition of DiabTec by KELIX bio is a significant milestone for Mubadala, further strengthening our nation's position in the global life sciences ecosystem.

"This strategic investment reflects our commitment to responsible investing, addressing critical global healthcare challenges like the growing need for insulin analogues. Moreover, it strengthens Mubadala's portfolio of biologicals, establishes our role in biomanufacturing across the MENA region, and advances the UAE's life sciences sector through local manufacturing."

Ismail Ali Abdulla, Executive Director of UAE Clusters at Mubadala's UAE Investments Platform, highlighted the acquisition's role in addressing the crucial need for reliable access to therapeutic solutions, such as insulin analogues, against the backdrop of global demand and supply challenges. Abdulla pointed out, "The acquisition of DiabTec is a direct response to this need. This move not only strengthens Mubadala's and the UAE's life sciences sector but also underscores our commitment to improving global health outcomes by contributing to a more secure and sustainable insulin analogue supply chain."

Sheikh Saqer Bin Humaid Al Qasimi, Chairman of the Board at Julphar, expressed support for the sale, noting it as part of Julphar's strategy to divest from non-core assets while supporting the UAE's pharmaceutical sector's enhancement and broader API manufacturing capabilities.

Hocine Sidi Said, CEO of KELIX bio, further commented on the acquisition's significance, stating, "The acquisition of DiabTec highlights Mubadala's commitment to our expansion and to back the growth of the UAE life sciences sector. With the rising number of diabetes patients globally, access to insulin analogues remains a challenge in many regions. To address this challenge, KELIX bio aims to improve access to critical treatments, ensuring that those in need can receive the care they require."

The strategic acquisition not only solidifies Mubadala's presence in the life sciences ecosystem but also supports the UAE's ambitions of becoming a global leader in the sector. It complements KELIX bio's recent expansion through the acquisition of four GlobalOne Healthcare Holding assets, further advancing the nation's life sciences sector and contributing to its economic diversification.