PHRMAG forms strategic partnership with Ma’an to expand cancer care access in Abu Dhabi

UAE—The Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturers Association in the Gulf (PHRMAG) and the Authority of Social Contribution—Ma’an, the Abu Dhabi Government’s official channel for receiving social contributions, have formed a strategic partnership to improve access to innovative treatments for patients living with cancer and rare diseases.

The initiative aims to help patients with the greatest medical needs access modern therapies within a coordinated framework that complements the UAE’s national health insurance system.

By combining the strengths of the public and private sectors, the collaboration seeks to deliver sustainable healthcare solutions while ensuring continuity of care for eligible patients.

Strengthening access to specialized care

The partnership focuses on addressing the challenges faced by patients with complex and life-threatening conditions by improving access to advanced medicines and specialized healthcare services.

It also seeks to enhance family resilience by easing the burden associated with serious illnesses while supporting the UAE’s Year of the Family initiative.

H.E. Abdullah Al Ameri, Director General of the Authority of Social Contribution – Ma’an, said the collaboration marks an important step toward building a more integrated and sustainable healthcare system for oncology and rare disease patients in Abu Dhabi.

He noted that the Authority remains committed to directing social contributions toward initiatives that create measurable benefits for community members, particularly those living with complex medical conditions.

According to Al Ameri, the partnership demonstrates how public and private organizations can combine their expertise to improve access to specialized healthcare while promoting shared responsibility and social solidarity across the community.

Governance and project oversight

Under the agreement, the Authority of Social Contribution—Ma’an will oversee the allocation of contributions according to agreed project milestones.

A dedicated joint committee will monitor implementation through monthly meetings, providing strategic guidance, reviewing progress, and facilitating continuous knowledge sharing between both organizations throughout the project’s duration.

Supporting Abu Dhabi’s healthcare vision

H.E. Mohammed Abdullah Al Awadi, Executive Director of the Health System Financing Regulation Sector at the Department of Health – Abu Dhabi, welcomed the collaboration, saying it supports the emirate’s efforts to deliver accessible, world-class healthcare.

He said the initiative will help advance innovation and research within the healthcare sector while strengthening early detection and treatment of rare diseases.

Al Awadi added that expanding collaboration among healthcare stakeholders improves long-term health outcomes and reinforces Abu Dhabi’s position as a regional hub for life sciences innovation.

Industry commitment to sustainable healthcare

Sameh El Fangary, Chairman of PHRMAG, said the association, which represents innovative pharmaceutical companies across the Gulf region, remains committed to working closely with Abu Dhabi’s health and social authorities to ensure patients continue receiving the treatments they need.

He explained that the partnership with the Authority of Social Contribution—Ma’an reflects a shared commitment to developing sustainable solutions that expand access to high-quality medical care for patients living with oncology and rare diseases.

The collaboration also underscores Abu Dhabi’s continued focus on strengthening public-private partnerships to address complex healthcare challenges through coordinated, long-term initiatives.

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