The Emirates Drug Establishment (EDE) is moving forward with comprehensive plans to enhance the regulatory framework of the UAE’s healthcare and pharmaceutical sectors. During its fourth meeting, the Board of Directors, chaired by Dr. Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi, Minister of State for Foreign Trade, discussed the establishment of specialized committees to boost operational efficiency and integrate various government services under EDE’s supervision.
Dr. Thani emphasized the importance of developing a cohesive organizational structure to regulate and manage healthcare and pharmaceutical activities, aiming to align the UAE’s standards with global best practices. “We are focused on creating an efficient institutional framework that integrates relevant government agencies, enhancing the production capability of the local pharmaceutical sector, and attracting global investment and talent,” he stated.
Dr. Fatima Al Kaabi, Director General of EDE, highlighted the ongoing efforts to implement the Board’s recommendations, including the formation of EDE’s organizational structure and appointing a skilled team to improve healthcare standards. She noted, “Our strategic goals are to elevate healthcare standards and expand the pharmaceutical sector’s contribution to the well-being of UAE citizens and sustainable economic growth.”
The UAE Cabinet approved the EDE’s formation in December 2023, granting it oversight of medical products nationwide, including pharmaceuticals, medical devices, nutritional supplements, and more. This broad mandate is designed to streamline regulation and enhance the sector’s global competitiveness.
In a parallel development, the Department of Health – Abu Dhabi (DoH), Abu Dhabi Investment Office (ADIO), Etihad Airways, and AD Ports Group have formed a partnership to transform Abu Dhabi into a global pharmaceutical distribution hub. Announced at the BIO International Convention 2024 in San Diego, this collaboration aims to leverage Abu Dhabi’s strategic location and advanced logistics capabilities to attract pharmaceutical, biotechnology, and medical technology companies.
Dr. Asma Ibrahim Al Mannaei, Executive Director of the Research and Innovation Centre at DoH, stated, “This partnership reaffirms our commitment to leading the regional healthcare transformation. By establishing a robust distribution hub, we aim to improve healthcare outcomes and drive economic growth.”
The collaboration will ensure timely access to innovative healthcare products across the region and support local manufacturing and packaging of pharmaceutical and biotechnology products. Khalifa Al Mahmoud of ADIO, Stanislas Brun of Etihad Cargo, and Mansoor Al Marar of AD Ports Group emphasized the strategic importance of this initiative in enhancing Abu Dhabi’s role in the global pharmaceutical supply chain and fostering a vibrant community of health-tech companies.
This multi-faceted approach underscores Abu Dhabi’s dedication to becoming a premier global hub for pharmaceutical and life sciences distribution, driving innovation, investment, and job creation in the healthcare and logistics sectors.