Hamdan Bin Mohammed Engages With Colossal Biosciences CEO On De-Extinction Initiatives
H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, recently engaged in discussions with Ben Lamm, Co-Founder and CEO of Colossal Biosciences. This US-based company is pioneering efforts in de-extincting animal species. During their meeting, H.H. Sheikh Hamdan reiterated Dubai's dedication to collaborating with global leaders in science and technology.
He highlighted the city's commitment to supporting innovative projects that utilise advanced technologies to benefit humanity and progress scientific knowledge. The rapid pace of scientific and technological advancements presents numerous opportunities for future development, according to H.H. Sheikh Hamdan.
H.H. Sheikh Hamdan emphasised that Dubai and the UAE view scientific and technological advancement as essential for creating a sustainable future. This approach aims to protect human well-being while preserving the natural environment. His remarks underscore the importance placed on these fields within the region.
The meeting also included Omar Sultan Al Olama, Minister of State for Artificial Intelligence, Digital Economy, and Remote Work Applications; Helal Saeed Almarri, Director-General of Dubai's Department of Economy and Tourism; and Khalfan Belhoul, CEO of the Dubai Future Foundation.
Colossal Biosciences is at the forefront of efforts to protect endangered species and revive those that have gone extinct. The company has an extensive index of species targeted for de-extinction through biotechnology and genetic engineering applications.
In October 2024, Colossal Biosciences achieved a significant milestone by successfully bringing back the dire wolf, a species that vanished 10,000 years ago. The company is also working on reviving other extinct animals like the woolly mammoth, dodo, and Tasmanian tiger.
Commitment to Environmental Preservation
The Dallas-based company focuses on safeguarding endangered species while restoring extinct ones through advanced biotechnological methods. Their work aligns with global efforts to preserve ecosystems and maintain biodiversity.
This collaboration between Dubai's leadership and Colossal Biosciences highlights a shared vision for leveraging technology to address environmental challenges. It reflects a broader commitment to fostering innovation in science for sustainable development.
The discussions between H.H. Sheikh Hamdan and Ben Lamm illustrate a mutual interest in advancing scientific endeavours that benefit both humanity and the planet. By supporting such initiatives, Dubai aims to position itself as a hub for cutting-edge research and technological progress.
With inputs from WAM


