Investing in tomorrow's health: Abu Dhabi's strategic health and life sciences agenda
Held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Executive Council and organised by the Department of Health – Abu Dhabi (DoH), this year's edition was anchored around the theme 'Towards Longevity: Redefining Health and Well-being.' The event provided a platform for leaders in policy, technology, finance, and research to explore a new paradigm—one that integrates artificial intelligence (AI), data science, genomics, and patient-centred design to achieve better outcomes.
Abu Dhabi's Evolving Model
At the core of ADGHW 2025 is Abu Dhabi's focus on longevity, prevention, and precision health, driven by advanced technologies and a connected health ecosystem. The Emirate's commitment to personalised care is supported by world-class research centres, integrated data platforms, investment-friendly policies, and forward-thinking regulations.
The launch of the Health, Endurance, Longevity, and Medicine Cluster (HELM) marked a major milestone. Designed to attract international investment and talent, HELM will accelerate Abu Dhabi's transition into a global hub for biotech, MedTech, and life sciences manufacturing. By 2045, the cluster is projected to contribute AED 94 billion (USD 25.6 billion) to GDP and attract AED 42 billion (USD 11.4 billion) in investment. The cluster integrates cutting-edge laboratories, advanced manufacturing facilities, and a supportive regulatory environment to fast-track innovation from lab to market.
'We are building an intelligent health system that embeds AI, genomics, and data-driven insights into every layer of care,' said H.E. Dr. Noura Khamis Al Ghaithi, Undersecretary of Department of Health. 'Our vision is globally connected, prevention-first model, delivering personalised impact at scale, supported by strategic investment, bold partnerships, and a unified ecosystem.'
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Abu Dhabi is cultivating a thriving life sciences sector, evolving from an import-heavy, treatment-oriented model to a regional hub for R&D, clinical innovation, and biotech scale-up. Investors are taking notice.
Complementing HELM, a landmark infrastructure agreement between DoH, the Abu Dhabi Investment Office (ADIO), and Masdar City will establish state-of-the-art life sciences laboratories to enable R&D, support early-stage ventures, and foster academic–industry collaboration. The goal: translate research into commercially viable solutions and grow the life sciences economy from bench to bedside.
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mbedding Intelligence in Health
The Emirate's vision for health innovation includes significant investment in digital infrastructure and talent. From telehealth to AI-integrated diagnostics and predictive analytics, Abu Dhabi is embedding intelligence across the patient journey—while building a skilled workforce ready to harness emerging technologies.
'Abu Dhabi is not just adopting digital health tools—we're architects of a smart health ecosystem,' said Ibrahim Al Jallaf, Executive Director of Digital Health at Department of Health (DoH). 'By aligning regulation, education, innovation, and investment, we're creating a seamless, data-driven care environment that empowers both clinicians and patients.'
Strategic Health Infrastructure
Abu Dhabi's life sciences push is supported by initiatives that extend beyond innovation to include robust global logistics. A key announcement at ADGHW 2025 was the inauguration of a regional vaccine distribution hub—a major milestone in the Emirate's strategy to strengthen global health supply chains. Building on a 2024 MoU with GSK, the hub leverages Abu Dhabi's strategic location, advanced logistics infrastructure, and strong regulatory frameworks to ensure rapid, equitable access to vaccines across regional and global markets.
This initiative underscores Abu Dhabi's integrated approach to health innovation, where infrastructure, policy, and international collaboration converge to create a future-ready health system that is agile, inclusive, and impact-driven.
Life Sciences as an economic engine
The life sciences sector is fast becoming a cornerstone of Abu Dhabi's economic diversification strategy. Recent projections indicate the sector will contribute over AED 94 billion to GDP by 2045 and create more than 30,000 jobs. With streamlined regulation, strong intellectual property protections, and support for public–private partnerships, Abu Dhabi offers a compelling environment for investors.
Its world-class logistics and distribution networks further enhance its attractiveness as a base for pharmaceutical and MedTech companies looking to scale.
Strengthening global ties
India and Abu Dhabi share strategic interests in health technology and research translation. Ongoing collaborations in digital diagnostics, genomics, and health data governance create space for joint innovation, particularly relevant as both nations invest in technology-led, accessible healthcare models.
Looking ahead
Abu Dhabi is not just building a health system; it is building a future-ready life sciences economy. Through bold policy, cross-sector collaboration, and long-term investment, it is creating a platform where global breakthroughs are enabled and scaled responsibly. In a world seeking resilient, innovative health systems, Abu Dhabi offers a powerful and actionable model for the future of global health innovation.
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