MoHAP launches comprehensive framework to measure health research and development expenditures in UAE

UAE—The UAE’s Ministry of Health and Prevention (MoHAP) has introduced a comprehensive framework to measure health research and development (R&D) expenditures across the nation’s health sector.

This initiative aims to enhance transparency, streamline data collection, and support evidence-based decision-making to improve planning and performance across the healthcare system.

The National Centre for Health Research unveiled the framework at a ceremony in Dubai, attended by prominent officials, including Dr. Amin Hussain Al Amiri, Assistant Undersecretary for the Health Regulations Sector.

Representatives from key organizations such as the Department of Health-Abu Dhabi, Dubai Health Authority, Sheikh Shakhbout Medical City, and the United Arab Emirates University also participated, showcasing a collective commitment to advancing health research.

MoHAP emphasized that the framework strengthens partnerships between health authorities, academic institutions, and private-sector entities.

By fostering collaboration, it aims to improve performance and align the UAE’s health R&D efforts with global standards.

The framework provides clear definitions and mechanisms for tracking health-related R&D spending, following UNESCO and Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) guidelines.

This initiative will help organizations systematically measure R&D expenditures, enabling the UAE to achieve strategic goals such as increasing the ratio of R&D spending to GDP.

Additionally, it promotes transparency and efficiency by standardizing data collection and analysis methods.

These efforts are expected to enhance the UAE’s competitiveness in the global health research landscape.

In his opening remarks, Dr. Al Amiri highlighted the significance of investing in health R&D, describing it as a transformative force that anticipates emerging challenges and shapes a strategic vision for the future.

 He noted that health research not only improves the quality of healthcare but also enhances the UAE’s international reputation.

By fostering collaborations with local and global institutions, the nation is solidifying its position as a global hub for innovation in healthcare.

Dr. Al Amiri further emphasized the UAE’s remarkable progress in health R&D funding, which has grown at three times the global average.

This progress aligns with the UAE’s ambitions under the “We the UAE 2031” vision and the “UAE Centennial 2071” Plan to establish itself as a global leader in healthcare innovation and research

Sign up HERE to receive our email newsletters with the latest news and insights from Africa and around the world, and follow us on our WhatsApp channel for updates.