UAE – The Department of Health – Abu Dhabi (DoH) has signed a collaboration agreement with pharma giant Eli Lilly to boost clinical research capabilities and strengthen the life sciences ecosystem in the emirate.

This agreement aims to create a strong framework of collaboration on clinical research, real-world evidence, and healthcare technology along with new opportunities in the field of health services.

In a press release, the DoH stated: “The agreement will expand Abu Dhabi’s footprint in life science research and development as well as drive innovation across all streams of healthcare and advanced therapeutics.”

The Department of Health and Eli Lilly will collaborate in clinical research and life science activities in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi to drive better healthcare outcomes locally and regionally.

Accelerating the clinical translation of these promising scientific findings with a focus on oncology, diabetes, and neurological diseases is a top priority of the joint collaboration.

This combined effort comes as the Emirate of Abu Dhabi is taking steps to position itself as a global hub of biotechnology innovation and emerge as a leading destination for healthcare and life science in the Arab region.

“The joint collaboration will aid in the acceleration of developing new treatments for diseases, improve healthcare outcomes and contribute to the health and well-being of the global community,” said the Department of Health.

Ultimately, this strategic alliance aims to combine Abu Dhabi’s evolving healthcare and life-science infrastructure and capabilities and Eli Lilly’s advanced research and commercial expertise to address global healthcare challenges.

It will require cooperation with all key stakeholders within Abu Dhabi’s ecosystem, exemplifying the region’s commitment to innovation, knowledge exchange, and international collaboration.

“Creating a transformative shift in the traditional healthcare paradigm in Abu Dhabi, the agreement contributes to the ongoing efforts to establish a competitive knowledge-based economy by unlocking the potential of the UAE’s national capabilities,” reported the DoH.

The joint effort aligns with Eli Lilly’s deep commitment to expanding access to the pharmaceutical company’s medicines and promoting innovation to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of healthcare delivery.

The signing ceremony was presided over by Dr. Asma Al Mannaei, Executive Director of the Research and Innovation Center at the Department of Health – Abu Dhabi, and Irina Zaporozhets, Vice President and General Manager for the Middle East region at Eli Lilly.

The document was signed in the presence of His Excellency Mansoor Al Mansoori, Chairman of the Department of Health – Abu Dhabi, and Leigh Ann Pusey, Executive Vice President of Corporate Affairs and Communications at Eli Lilly.

Commenting on the international collaboration, Dr. Asma Al Mannaei outlined: “Abu Dhabi seeks to lead research groups supported by global partners to explore the resilience and sustainability of the healthcare sector worldwide as well as provide quality care to patients.”

She pointed out that it is part of Abu Dhabi’s efforts to initiate grand partnerships with leading global companies to exchange knowledge and expertise in line with international standards and best practices. 

“Under the directives of our wise leadership, Abu Dhabi is paving the way for the region’s transformative journey through innovation, life science, and valuable partnerships with global players in the field,” added Dr. Asma Al Mannaei.

All in all, this agreement between the Department of Health and Eli Lilly will focus on promoting life sciences innovation to provide quality care and breakthrough treatments to patients in Abu Dhabi and beyond.

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