M42’s IROS partners with Halia Therapeutics to launch clinical study on obesity treatment in UAE

UAE—IROS, an Abu Dhabi-based contract research organization has partnered with Halia Therapeutics, a clinical-stage pharmaceutical company based in Utah, USA, to conduct a pioneering clinical trial focused on obesity treatment.

This collaboration reflects Halia Therapeutics’ role as a global innovator in discovering and delivering new treatments to patients, with a strong commitment to addressing worldwide health challenges.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), over 2.5 billion adults worldwide are overweight, with more than 890 million living with obesity.

The UAE, in particular, faces a significant obesity crisis, with nearly one-third of adults classified as obese.

The country also has one of the highest rates of type 2 diabetes, nearing 20% in some areas—more than double the global average.

The clinical trial between IROS and Halia Therapeutics will investigate a promising new therapy to treat obesity.

The goal is not only to address this chronic, complex condition but also to advance medical knowledge and understanding of the factors crucial for effective obesity management on a global scale.

The trial will involve 60 participants with type 2 diabetes who are also classified as obese or overweight.

The study will unfold in two phases over approximately six months. Initially, the safety of the treatment will be assessed, along with how the body processes it.

 In the second phase, some participants will receive the active treatment, while others will receive a placebo.

The trial’s objectives are clear: to demonstrate the drug’s effectiveness in promoting weight loss with minimal side effects, assess its safety for long-term use, and determine its impact on patients’ quality of life.

Islam ElTantawy, General Manager of IROS, emphasized the company’s commitment to developing innovative therapies for unmet medical needs.

He expressed confidence that this partnership with Halia Therapeutics could significantly improve the lives of millions struggling with obesity.

ElTantawy also pointed out that the collaboration is a testament to IROS’s ability to conduct international standard studies and aligns with the company’s strategy for global expansion.

He further noted that this partnership underscores the UAE’s growing capabilities in cutting-edge clinical research, making it a leader in tackling global health challenges such as obesity.

Dr. David Bearss, CEO of Halia Therapeutics, added that obesity remains a major health issue affecting millions globally, with the Middle East being no exception.

He highlighted that the trial aims to contribute to global efforts to combat this epidemic by developing new, effective treatments.

Bearss also noted that this collaboration with IROS positions both organizations to make significant strides in addressing chronic diseases at their core.

The success of this trial could potentially enhance treatment options for obesity both in the UAE and globally.

Results from the trial will be closely monitored, with updates provided as the study progresses.

This partnership also highlights the UAE’s growing role as a hub for clinical research, leveraging advanced technology and expertise to address the increasing burden of chronic diseases in the region and beyond. 

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