ADIO And DoH Join Forces With ADSCC, NYU Abu Dhabi, And UAEU To Boost Life Sciences Research And Development

The Abu Dhabi Investment Office (ADIO) and the Department of Health – Abu Dhabi (DoH) have partnered with the Abu Dhabi Stem Cells Centre (ADSCC), New York University Abu Dhabi (NYUAD), and UAE University. This collaboration aims to boost the emirate's Health, Endurance, Longevity, and Medicine (HELM) cluster. The initiative seeks to establish Abu Dhabi as a global leader in biotechnology, MedTech, and digital health innovation.

The HELM cluster is expected to significantly impact Abu Dhabi's economy. It is projected to add over AED 94 billion to the GDP and create 30,000 jobs by 2045. Announced during Abu Dhabi Global Health Week (ADGW), this partnership unites key research, academic, and clinical institutions in Abu Dhabi. They will commit resources and expertise to establish the HELM cluster as an innovation hub.

Dr. Noura Khamis Al Ghaithi of DoH stated, "Abu Dhabi is not just investing in science, we are shaping the future of health. With the HELM cluster, we are bridging research, regulation and real-world impact to create an ecosystem where innovation thrives and transforms lives." This initiative strengthens Abu Dhabi’s position as a leading global life sciences hub.

The agreement outlines a framework for supporting advanced life sciences and biotechnology companies within the HELM cluster. This framework will help these entities commercialise products and integrate into global value chains while ensuring regulatory compliance through DoH oversight. The aim is to remove barriers to innovation.

Badr Al Olama from ADIO remarked, "Abu Dhabi is advancing its role as a trusted destination for innovation... With the HELM cluster, we are creating an environment where companies can innovate with confidence." The collaboration brings together top academic, clinical, and regulatory bodies in the emirate.

Research Collaboration

All parties involved will share laboratory networks and research infrastructure to enhance research capabilities across the cluster. Prof. Ahmed Ali Al Raeesi from UAE University highlighted their commitment to leadership and excellence in fostering impactful knowledge through this collaboration.

Prof. Yendry Ventura of ADSCC noted that their strength lies in translating scientific discoveries into therapies. He stated that through this partnership, they are expanding their reach and advancing medical innovation in Abu Dhabi.

Focus on Talent Development

The partnership also emphasises talent development through specialised training programmes, internships, and workshops in life sciences. Academic institutions will collaborate with the private sector to create joint degree programmes and research fellowships focused on human health research.

Fabio Piano from NYU Abu Dhabi said, "This partnership builds on our long-standing collaborations... Together, we’re enhancing our connectivity." The alliance aims to attract global talent and drive progress in human health research for a positive impact on the UAE's future.

This strategic alliance marks a significant advancement for the HELM cluster's development. It further solidifies Abu Dhabi’s position as a leader in scientific innovation, healthcare advancement, and knowledge-based economic growth. Held under ‘Towards Longevity: Redefining Health and Well-being,’ ADGW serves as a platform for innovation within Abu Dhabi’s healthcare sector.

With inputs from WAM