DoH, Sanofi partner to accelerate development of new global vaccines in Abu Dhabi
The Department of Health – Abu Dhabi (DoH), the regulator of the healthcare sector in Abu Dhabi, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Sanofi, a research and development-driven, AI-powered healthcare biopharma company at the BIO International Convention 2025, in Boston, USA.
The collaboration will leverage the Emirate's health-tech ecosystem and advanced research infrastructure to drive the development of new global vaccines and strengthen regional capabilities in vaccine manufacturing.
In the presence of Dr. Noura Khamis Al Ghaithi, Under-Secretary of the Department of Health – Abu Dhabi, and Laurie Gery, Global Head of Business Development, Vaccines at Sanofi, the agreement was signed during the BIO International Convention in Boston, USA, by Dr. Asma Al Mannaei, the Executive Director of the Health Life Sciences Sector at the DoH and Baptiste de Clarens, General Manager Greater Gulf, Vaccines at Sanofi.
Dr. Asma Al Mannaei, Executive Director of the Health Life Sciences Sector at the DoH, said. 'DoH is partnering with Sanofi to expedite the development of new global vaccines. This initiative aims to shorten the timeline from early research to public availability by utilising advanced technologies, real-time data analysis, and conducting parallel clinical trial phases. By combining Sanofi's global scientific expertise with Abu Dhabi's state-of-the-art infrastructure, we set new benchmarks for resilience, innovation and international partnerships. Abu Dhabi offers a globally connected, purpose-driven environment for leading research, and together we will drive a transformative change that will safeguard the health and well-being of our community while contributing to global health security.'
Both entities will work together to streamline regulatory processes, enhance manufacturing preparedness, and promote knowledge sharing between local and international experts. This partnership reflects Abu Dhabi's strategic goal to establish itself as a leading centre for bio- and pharmaceutical innovation and underscores the emirate's commitment to advancing proactive, technology-driven healthcare solutions.
Baptiste de Clarens, General Manager Greater Gulf, Vaccines, Sanofi, said, 'The Memorandum of Understanding signed with the Department of Health – Abu Dhabi marks an encouraging step towards advancing global health security while reflecting our shared interest in addressing global health challenges through scientific partnership. This agreement allows us to examine how Sanofi's experience in vaccine development could complement Abu Dhabi's growing R&D ecosystem. Through this initial framework, we look forward to exploring opportunities for public-private collaboration in healthcare innovation.'
In addition, both the Department and Sanofi will advance clinical research and development planning, optimise resource allocation and establish the foundational terms for funding and access. These efforts are designed to enhance healthcare resilience and sustainability across Abu Dhabi's healthcare sector and beyond, expanding access to quality care for patients locally and globally.
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Zawya
an hour ago
- Zawya
South Sudan: Free medical care by Indian peacekeepers gives hope to over 300 displaced people
As security concerns continue in parts of Upper Nile state, the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) is making every effort to protect civilians and boost community confidence. As an example—Blue Helmets from India hosted a two-day medical outreach at the UN Protection of Civilians site, adjacent to the Mission's base in Malakal where some 315 displaced people received free treatment. Patients suffering from various ailments were diagnosed and provided with care options. For Dr. Sandeep Ravi, a medical peacekeeper, such interventions lie at the heart of the UN Peacekeeping mission's mandate to help build lasting peace in this country. 'Accessible and inclusive healthcare is key for communities to thrive. Across Upper Nile state, conflict has disrupted not only people's lives and livelihoods but also reduced the number of available health facilities. So, we decided to come together and, for a limited time, bridge this gap as much as possible,' he explained. 'Bringing quality healthcare directly to communities goes beyond free consultations and treatment. It gives hope to people who are most vulnerable.' Mary Joseph, a 20-year-old patient, can testify to Dr Ravi's opinion. 'I've had a problem with my leg for three months now but had no money to pay for treatment at the local clinics in town. Today, Indian doctors have examined me carefully and given me medications to treat the condition as well as manage my pain. I hope I can restart my small business soon,' she said with a smile. Albino Amum, a community leader residing at the camp who helped peacekeepers mobilize this event, described the activity as timely and significant. 'Earlier, we were receiving healthcare from various international and nongovernmental organizations, but we understand that there is a reduction in funding, which has left a big vacuum. So, this medical drive by our friends at UNMISS came at a very opportune time. We hope they'll consider doing similar activities for us for five or six days in future. It makes a big difference for those who are financially constrained yet need urgent health checks,' stated Mr. Amum. For his part, Dr. Ravi reveals that the biggest satisfaction was the response from community members. 'As medical professionals and peacekeepers, there is no greater reward than the genuine appreciation we have received from the displaced communities we treated. I believe this initiative is a testament to what collective effort and compassion can achieve in strengthening public health.' Distributed by APO Group on behalf of United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS).
Al Etihad
3 hours ago
- Al Etihad
DoH, ADPHC launch Personalised Weight Management Programme, first of its kind in Middle East
19 June 2025 21:08 ABU DHABI (ALETIHAD)The Department of Health – Abu Dhabi (DoH) and Abu Dhabi Public Health Centre (ADPHC) have launched a new Personalised Weight Management Programme, integrating digital monitoring, a unique reimbursement model, and tailored clinical programme, which is the first-of-its-kind in the Middle East, promotes sustainable weight management and active living to significantly reduce the risks of chronic diseases such as type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and certain cancers, ultimately enhancing overall quality of life and health to eligible Thiqa members aged 18 and above who are clinically identified as overweight or obese, the programme features an innovative reimbursement model designed to encourage sustained engagement, accountability, and continuous active Noura Al Ghaithi, Undersecretary of the Department of Health – Abu Dhabi, said: 'Our focus is on health – not just weight. This programme supports our vision for an active, health-conscious community, empowering individuals through personalised and science-driven solutions. Weight management requires tailored solutions, not a one-size-fits-all approach, and this programme ensures each participant receives precisely what they need to succeed.'The programme provides eligible individuals with a comprehensive, personalised 360-degree health plan that includes early screening, behavioural health support, clinical interventions if medically indicated, and ongoing long-term support to ensure sustainable plans could include early screening with initial health assessments, including BMI checks and metabolic evaluations, to proactively identify risks. The programme begins with personalised behavioural and lifestyle support, featuring an initial 16-week plan, extendable beyond a year, to offer tailored behavioural, lifestyle, and medical support based on each participant's includes individual coaching, nutritional and physical activity guidance, and regular follow-ups, with progress tracked via the Sahatna digital health app, clinical interventions (if medically indicated) with access to medications, under medical supervision ensuring safe and effective care and long-term support with structured follow-up plans with ongoing nutritional guidance, regular monitoring of health indicators and activity, and clear, medically supervised strategies for safely transitioning individuals off clinical treatments to maintain sustainable Dhabi's Sahatna app serves as the dedicated digital health platform, empowering participants, in collaboration with healthcare professionals, to track comprehensive health indicators beyond weight, including physical activity, heart health, sleep, and stress levels, to foster lasting positive Rashid Obaid Al Suwaidi, Director General of ADPHC, said: 'We know that even moderate weight loss and modest increases in physical activity significantly lower chronic disease risk. Traditionally, healthcare systems have lacked clear pathways for doctors to support patients in becoming physically active or to effectively link them with supportive services. Our programme directly addresses this gap by providing structured guidance, personalised activity plans, and continuous monitoring support through digital tools and clinical oversight - empowering our community to proactively manage their health and enhance their quality of life.'Eligible Thiqa members can begin their journey by booking an initial consultation at their local primary care centre, where a dedicated healthcare provider will guide them through every step of their personalised health plan. All participants, irrespective of past experiences or challenges, are encouraged to take this important first step toward improved weight management and long-term health. This initiative underscores Abu Dhabi's ongoing commitment to personalised, preventive health solutions that improve individual well-being and community health. Source: Aletihad - Abu Dhabi
The National
6 hours ago
- The National
Thousands of outdoor workers offered support to deal with soaring temperatures
After two months of record temperatures in the UAE, authorities in Sharjah are offering advice on how to stay safe in extreme heat. Summer has arrived early as the UAE experienced its hottest May on record, with peak daily temperatures averaging higher than 40°C, with the mercury rising to 51.6°C in the Sweihan area. It followed the hottest April since records began in the early 2000s. The Ministry of Health and Prevention has now stepped in with targeted health campaigns to protect those most at risk. Outdoor workers, the elderly and infirm are most likely to suffer from the effects of exposure to heat, and the ministry is working alongside the Sharjah Supreme Council for Family Affairs to launch the 14th Heat Exhaustion and Disease Prevention Campaign. It aims to coincide with the midday work ban period that comes into force throughout July and August, to reduce exposure of construction workers during the hottest time of day. 'Let me be clear, protecting workers from heat-related illnesses isn't just a health issue,' said Mohammed Al Zarooni, director of the ministry's Representative Office in Sharjah. 'It's a national duty, a moral responsibility and a shared commitment that calls for all of us to work together. Through this campaign, we're emphasising the importance of early preparation and timely action. "It shows how prevention is not just a policy goal; it's a shared national responsibility. And more importantly, it sends a clear message of support and solidarity to our labour communities, who are a vital part of our society.' Support on site Education will be delivered on site for workers, to focus on risks and symptoms of heat exhaustion. It will also offer advice on first-aid practices and prevention methods to avoid heat-related illness that range from a rash or cramps to exhaustion and heat stroke in extreme cases. Medically, hyperthermia is classified when someone's temperature rises above their baseline average, usually 37°C. The government campaign will target 10,000 workers with free medical check-ups, including blood pressure and glucose testing, eye exams and blood donation drives. Meanwhile, inspection campaigns by the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation will be stepped up across work sites in Sharjah to ensure compliance with the midday work ban. Workers will also be offered protective equipment, food and drinking water. "This campaign reaffirms Sharjah's deep and ongoing commitment to public health, especially during the summer months, when high temperatures pose serious challenges to one of the most important segments of our society: our field workers,' said Mona Al Hawai, of the ministry's Health Promotion Department. 'Protecting the health of our community, especially those who may not always have direct access to services, is at the core of what we do. Through this campaign, we're going to deliver health lectures directly at work sites, offer basic medical check-ups and distribute protective supplies in multiple languages so that health information is not only available but accessible to everyone who needs it.' Data from the World Health Organisation showed that of about 489,000 heat-related deaths each year, most are in Asia and Europe. Last year, there were 269 deaths in India thought to be related to high temperatures. A further 161 recorded deaths were directly linked to heatstroke, as reported by India's National Centre for Disease Control. In Europe, the WHO estimates the current annual death toll of 175,000 related to extreme heat will climb in the years ahead. Vulnerable workers Delivery riders in the UAE are often exposed to extreme summer heat. Employers are stepping up support by increasing the number of shaded rest areas and introducing other packages to protect riders from heatstroke. Through its corporate responsibility programme, Careem is offering delivery captains flexible shifts to avoid peak heat hours and has introduced air-conditioned mobile rest areas, hydration kits and free health check-ups for those choosing to work during the hottest hours. "Summer in the UAE presents significant challenges for delivery work,' said Mudassir Sheikha, chief executive and co-founder of Careem. 'To ensure our captains feel supported during the hottest months of the year, we regularly host workshops to understand their needs and how we can help. This year we've extended these services to more than 60,000 delivery captains across the UAE – not just those working with Careem." Food delivery firm Deliveroo provides riders with cooling vests to help reduce body temperature and also has rest areas located in Dubai and Abu Dhabi. The company also has what it calls a Roo Bus, which acts as a pitstop area. The firm says "cooled buses are accessible to riders throughout the week, allowing riders to take a break from the weather" in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Al Ain, Ajman, Sharjah and Ras Al Khaimah. "Rider safety and wellbeing is a top priority for Deliveroo and we have been working and continue to work with the authorities, our rider agencies and partners on ways to support riders, especially over the summer season," said a Deliveroo spokesperson.
