Yas Clinic And Abu Dhabi Stem Cells Centre Introduce First Gene Therapy Infusion In UAE

Yas Clinic – Khalifa City, in partnership with the Abu Dhabi Stem Cells Centre (ADSCC) and Vertex Pharmaceuticals, is set to introduce gene therapy in the UAE. This collaboration will launch CASGEVY, the region's first CRISPR/Cas9-based gene-editing therapy. This development is a significant step forward for biotechnology and healthcare in the UAE, offering new treatment options for sickle cell disease and transfusion-dependent beta thalassemia.

The CRISPR/Cas9 therapy allows precise editing of genes that cause diseases. It uses guide RNA and the Cas9 enzyme to correct specific DNA sequences. The UAE Medicines Agency has approved CASGEVY for patients aged 12 and older who experience recurrent vaso-occlusive crises due to sickle cell disease or require transfusions for beta thalassemia. Patients can access this therapy through insurance agreements facilitated by the Abu Dhabi Department of Health.

The first patient is expected to receive this groundbreaking gene therapy at Yas Clinic – Khalifa City in early December. Starting this treatment on UAE National Day underscores a national commitment to progress and better patient outcomes. Dr. Maysoon Al Karam, Chief Medical Officer at Yas Clinic, noted that launching the UAE’s first gene-edited therapy on National Day highlights national ambition and Abu Dhabi’s emerging role as a hub for advanced therapies.

Collaboration Benefits

Hisham Hagar, Executive Country Manager at Vertex GCC, stated that this collaboration will provide patients with limited treatment options access to a potential functional cure. The treatment process involves collecting a patient's stem cells, editing them outside the body using CRISPR/Cas9, then reinfusing them to restore blood production. This rigorous process includes cell mobilisation, quality checks, infusion, and long-term monitoring.

Advanced Medical Technologies

ADSCC and Yas Clinic – Khalifa City are leading in stem cell transplant and cellular therapy in the UAE. They continue to expand access to advanced medical technologies, reducing the need for overseas treatment while improving outcomes for complex genetic diseases. Their integrated research capabilities, clinical care facilities, manufacturing capabilities, GMP laboratories, and FACT-accredited facilities reinforce their leadership in regenerative medicine and precision therapies.

This partnership marks a new era of advanced genetic treatments in the UAE. By integrating cutting-edge medical technologies with local expertise, it aims to improve long-term outcomes for patients with complex genetic conditions while reducing dependency on overseas treatments.

With inputs from WAM