UAE, GSK join forces to advance personalized healthcare

UAE—The Department of Health – Abu Dhabi (DoH) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with global biopharmaceutical giant GSK to work on accelerating innovative healthcare in Abu Dhabi.

This MoU was signed on the sidelines of Arab Health 2024, with the two entities aiming to further encourage and support the expansion of the biotechnology sector.

The signing was witnessed by HE Dr. Noura Khamis Al Ghaithi, Undersecretary of the DoH, and Mr. Mark Oakes, Head of Life Sciences and Technology at the Department for Business and Trade, UK Government – the MoU was signed by Dr. Asma Ibrahim Al Mannaei, Executive Director of the DoH’s Research and Innovation Centre, and Dr. Averyan Vasylyev, Medical Director, GSK Gulf.

Boyd Chongphaisal, the Vice President and General Manager of GSK Gulf, was also present.

The MoU aims to expand on current strengths in big data, real-world evidence, clinical trials, and clinical practices. The alliance has the potential to transform the life sciences landscape in the UAE and around the world.

It will also use logistical solutions for research in areas such as oncology and other major diseases, establishing clinical trials at important UAE sites to enable the ongoing development of tailored and preventive care for better patient results.

During the signing ceremony, Dr. Al Mannaei emphasized his commitment to forming recognized partnerships with both local and global partners,   to allow them to improve healthcare results and raise the quality of life in the Emirate and beyond.

He believes that genetics and the use of health data are the keys to the future of healthcare, which is why they are collaborating with the world’s largest players in the industry.

He went on to note that the partnership with GSK Life Sciences is a perfect example of this, as it solidifies Abu Dhabi’s status as a worldwide life sciences powerhouse and incubator for healthcare innovation.

Boyd Chongphaisal, Vice President and General Manager of GSK Gulf, stated that this collaboration is a significant step forward in advancing research and development programmes in the region, with the potential to make a real difference in the lives of patients not only in the UAE but also beyond.

GSK published its results on Thursday, exceeding market expectations for the fourth quarter and providing an optimistic outlook for 2024 and beyond with its vaccine and cancer medicine pipeline.

It reported fourth-quarter sales of £8.05 billion  (U$10.2 billion), with sales expected to exceed £38 billion  (US$48.5 billion) by 2031. 

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