Emirates Drug Establishment signals shift in obesity care with approval of once-daily oral orforglipron

UAE—The Emirates Drug Establishment (EDE) has approved Foundayo™ (orforglipron), marking the UAE as only the second nation worldwide to register this groundbreaking oral treatment for chronic weight management.

Eli Lilly, the global pharmaceutical giant behind the medication, developed the drug to transform how patients manage obesity.

A shift away from injections

The approval reflects the EDE’s mission to bring innovative therapies that improve patient experience.

Orforglipron stands out because it offers an oral alternative to injectable treatments, removing a significant barrier for many patients.

The drug works as a once-daily glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist, requiring no food or water restrictions before taking it.

The medication helps regulate appetite and reduce food intake, supporting long-term weight reduction when combined with lifestyle changes.

Clinical trials showed impressive results: patients receiving the highest dose achieved an average weight loss of 12.4%.

A priority for public health

Dr Fatima Al Kaabi, Director-General of the Emirates Drug Establishment, emphasized that obesity carries serious health consequences.

The condition links to more than 200 diseases and health complications, including type 2 diabetes, hypertension, and at least 13 cancer types.

Al Kaabi noted that the UAE’s rapid approval demonstrates the nation’s commitment to adopting cutting-edge pharmaceutical innovations and protecting community health.

The establishment operates in accordance with the highest global regulatory standards while maintaining accelerated approval timelines.

Al Kaabi emphasized the EDE’s unwavering commitment to fostering a sustainable pharmaceutical ecosystem through innovation and collaboration with industry partners.

Global recognition

Roberta Marinelli, President and General Manager for Eli Lilly’s META Hub, highlighted the significance of the approval.

She explained that the once-daily oral formulation provides patients with a practical treatment option that supports effective disease management.

By making the drug available in the UAE following regulatory approval, eligible patients can now access this additional option as part of their treatment plans.

The medication’s development followed extensive clinical trials that demonstrated its effectiveness and positive patient response.

These promising results provided the scientific foundation for the EDE’s approval decision.

Availability Timeline

Foundayo will become available to eligible patients starting May 2026.

The approval positions the UAE as a regional leader in pharmaceutical innovation, reflecting the country’s broader directive to develop a world-class pharmaceutical sector centered on efficiency, innovation, and sustainability.

This move underscores the nation’s commitment to bringing advanced treatments to its population while supporting the development of a robust, globally competitive pharmaceutical industry.