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Rewriting the health playbook: How Abu Dhabi is scaling AI and digital care
Rewriting the health playbook: How Abu Dhabi is scaling AI and digital care

Economic Times

time24-06-2025

  • Health
  • Economic Times

Rewriting the health playbook: How Abu Dhabi is scaling AI and digital care

In April 2025, global health leaders, policymakers, innovators, and researchers convened for Abu Dhabi Global Health Week (ADGHW)—a flagship initiative of the Department of Health – Abu Dhabi (DoH). Held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Executive Council, the year-round global platform advances transformative solutions across health and life sciences. Health doesn't operate in a silo; it calls for critical thinking and collaboration among practitioners, policymakers, pharmaceutical leaders, researchers, and frontline healthcare workers accelerating shared health ambitions worldwide. ADVERTISEMENT The 2025 theme, 'Towards Longevity: Redefining Health and Well-being,' mirrors ADGHW's ambition: shifting from episodic treatment to continuous, preventive, and personalised care. The promise of digital health and AI One pressing theme that has dominated the public health discourse in the past few years is digital health and artificial intelligence (AI). Advanced technologies are unlocking new frontiers by improving access, enhancing clinical outcomes, and supporting more resilient health systems. From remote monitoring, AI-diagnostics, to telemedicine and predictive analysis, Abu Dhabi is reimagining care pathways to deliver personalised treatment while empowering providers with real-time, data-driven insights. H.E. Dr. Noura Khamis Al Ghaithi, Undersecretary of the Department of Health – Abu Dhabi According to H.E. Dr. Noura Khamis Al Ghaithi, Undersecretary of the Department of Health – Abu Dhabi, 'Digital health allows us to tailor care to the needs of each individual while improving access across diverse communities. Whether through telemedicine platforms or data-enabled prevention strategies, our focus is on strengthening system resilience and enhancing patient outcomes.' Abu Dhabi's growing trust-based health data and technical infrastructure presents a fertile ground for innovation. Initiatives such as Malaffi, the region's first Health Information Exchange, and the Emirati Genome Program are central to this vision. While the former facilitates real-time data sharing among care providers, the latter creates a unique dataset to analyse genetic predispositions to build better individual and population-level responses in health management. India's interest in scaling population health genomics (through initiatives such as the Genome India project, which aims to map the genetic diversity of the Indian population) aligns with such frameworks in Abu Dhabi. Data governance, ethical AI usage, and consent frameworks are some of the fronts where cross-border collaboration could be envisioned. ADVERTISEMENT Innovation Through Strategic InitiativesInitiatives announced at ADGHW 2025 reflect Abu Dhabi's role as a global health innovation leader, unveiling a suite of bold new initiatives that move digital health from concept to execution. ADVERTISEMENT Notably, the launch of the Health, Endurance, Longevity, and Medicine (HELM) Cluster—a partnership between the Abu Dhabi Investment Office, Mohamed bin Zayed University of Artificial Intelligence, and Hub71—signals a bold step toward advancing health life sciences, R&D, and building a robust ecosystem for medical innovation, pharmaceutical manufacturing, and biotechnology. The Startup Zone and Smart Health Hackathon spotlighted emerging innovators tackling real-world health challenges through AI-powered and digital-first approaches. The inaugural ADGHW Innovation Awards were also introduced, recognising breakthroughs that are driving meaningful improvements in patient outcomes, healthcare accessibility, and system efficiency. ADVERTISEMENT A human-centred approach to innovation However, digital transformation in healthcare transcends the technological realm. It must be rooted in the realities of patients and on-ground experiences that have emerged from years of clinical practice. Dr. Asma Al Mannaei, Executive Director of the of the Health Life Sciences Sector at the Department of Health – Abu Dhabi, underscores its impact; 'The future of health is patient-centred. Technology is a powerful enabler, but the true impact comes when innovations align with human need.'Technologies shown at ADGHW are shifting health towards proactive and predictive models of care, helping individuals manage chronic conditions, while algorithms interpret patient data to identify health risks before they escalate. ADVERTISEMENT Building a future-ready healthcare workforceThe success of this transformation depends equally on human capital. As AI and digital tools become more embedded in health workflows, there is a growing need for skilled professionals who can operate in hybrid, tech-enabled environments. 'Investing in workforce development is key to realising the benefits of digital health,' notes Dr. Rashed Obaid Al Suwaidi, Director General of the Abu Dhabi Public Health Centre (ADPHC) . 'Our role is to ensure that future clinicians and allied health professionals are equipped with both clinical and digital competencies, ensuring a seamless integration of innovation into care delivery.'This is true in the context of India as well, as it seeks to upskill its healthcare workforce to adopt emerging technologies. Abu Dhabi's initiatives present a model for India's academic and public-private institutions. The focus is on supporting the development of an AI-trained workforce capable of advancing both diagnostic precision and operational efficiency. Public health, equity, and global collaboration ADGHW 2025 also steered conversations on policy innovation, to drive an actionable agenda across global collaborators. A major milestone was the launch of a Global Declaration on Longevity and Precision Health, outlining an actionable agenda to extend both lifespan and healthspan through international cooperation and innovation, placing longevity at the heart of global health priorities. The Department of Health – Abu Dhabi (DoH) also signed a landmark Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), which focuses on advancing precision medicine and genomics in oncology, rare genetic disorders, and metabolic diseases, leveraging AI and collaborative research to pioneer new treatment pathways. This multi-stakeholder partnership included PureHealth, M42, Illumina, Khalifa University (KU), New York University Abu Dhabi (NYUAD), and the Institute for Healthier Living Abu Dhabi (IHLAD). In a world-first, Abu Dhabi unveiled the AI-powered Population Health Intelligence Framework—a learning health system designed to continuously predict, prevent, and respond to public health challenges through AI and real-time analytics.'Public health must be inclusive, data-informed, and anticipatory,' says H.E. Dr. Rached Obaid Al Suwaidi, Director-General of Abu Dhabi Public Health Center (ADPHC). 'Through ADGHW, we are advocating for integrated approaches that connect population health strategies with emerging digital tools.'This intersection of innovation and inclusion is critical as healthcare systems globally face challenges of scale, access, and sustainability. Through these measures, Abu Dhabi is positioning itself as both a contributor and convener in shaping the global health agenda. Infrastructure for impact Technology alone does not deliver transformation, it must be embedded within systems designed for agility, interoperability, and scale. Ibrahim Al Jallaf, Division Director of Digital Health at DoH, underscores that 'Our focus is on integrating digital health tools into a unified ecosystem. Whether it's through regulatory frameworks, investment incentives, or data platforms, we are building the infrastructure to support sustained impact.'ADGHW also provides the economic foundation for this transformation. By 2045, Abu Dhabi's life sciences sector is projected to contribute over AED 94 billion to GDP and generate more than 30,000 jobs. This economic vision is tightly interlinked with the health innovation agenda, making the Emirate a compelling hub for Indian health tech startups seeking Middle East expansion. From Abu Dhabi to the world As a year-round platform, ADGHW fosters a strategic bridge between global health priorities and local capacity, creating a space where data, expertise, and ambition leaders across government, academia, industry, and civil society, it presents an opportunity to co-create solutions that resonate far beyond borders, enhancing health outcomes not only for individuals but for entire communities and nations. Disclaimer: This content was authored by the content team of the ET Spotlight team. The news and editorial staff of ET had no role in the creation of this article. (You can now subscribe to our Economic Times WhatsApp channel) (This article is generated and published by ET Spotlight team. You can get in touch with them on etspotlight@

Abu Dhabi Global Health Week 2025 wrap-up: HELM initiative will drive healthcare partnerships, AI-led drug discovery and life science innovation across the Middle East
Abu Dhabi Global Health Week 2025 wrap-up: HELM initiative will drive healthcare partnerships, AI-led drug discovery and life science innovation across the Middle East

Economic Times

time24-06-2025

  • Health
  • Economic Times

Abu Dhabi Global Health Week 2025 wrap-up: HELM initiative will drive healthcare partnerships, AI-led drug discovery and life science innovation across the Middle East

The second edition of Abu Dhabi Global Health Week (ADGHW) 2025, held under the theme 'Towards Longevity: Redefining Health and Well-being', marked a significant milestone for the UAE's healthcare ambitions. ADVERTISEMENT Held in April 2025 at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre (ADNEC) under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Executive Council, ADGHW 2025 concluded on a note of collaborative spirit, ambition, and hope. Delivering 69 engaging sessions and facilitating the signing of 33 strategic Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs), the event convened 14,290 visitors, 1,295 delegates from global organisations, 140 exhibitors, and 271 visionary speakers from 95 countries. Symbolising the emirate's commitment to becoming a global health innovation leader, the announcement of the Health, Endurance, Longevity, and Medicine (HELM) cluster—a cross-institutional initiative led by the Abu Dhabi Investment Office (ADIO) and the Department of Health—came as a major boost to its cross-border healthcare goals, propelled by artificial intelligence (AI) and data-led innovations. The HELM cluster signals a deliberate and strategic evolution of the UAE's life sciences ecosystem, designed to catalyse long-term economic value through health innovation Abu Dhabi's new frontier in life sciences and AI Designed to accelerate the discovery, development, and commercialisation of next-generation medicines, biotechnologies, and personalised therapies, the initiative will be centred on AI and data-centric care ecosystems. ADVERTISEMENT Alessandro Borgogna, Advisor – Cluster Planning and Development at ADIO, said: "HELM is a critical part of ADIO's long-term economic cluster strategy. By concentrating capabilities in health, research and data science within a single integrated cluster, HELM strengthens the emirate's position in healthcare and life sciences that will define the future prosperity and well-being of citizens and residents. The cluster reflects a clear shift from fragmented investment to targeted, high-impact innovation, anchored in infrastructure, highly-skilled talent and strategic partnerships." Alessandro affirmed how this collaboration exemplifies Abu Dhabi's economic ability where world-class institutions, advanced infrastructure, and progressive policies come together to create a conducive environment for businesses to scale, innovate, and drive lasting impact in life science innovation. ADVERTISEMENT Guided by ADIO's cluster development strategy, HELM is creating the foundation for an 'AI-powered discovery ecosystem,' structured to foster end-to-end innovation across research, regulation and commercial deployment. Precision medicine momentum, multi-partner alliance ADVERTISEMENT Through an AI-driven discovery ecosystem, the HELM cluster's mission is to fuel the development of novel therapeutics. The initiative includes support for creating scalable infrastructure to handle and interpret large volumes of complex healthcare data—spanning clinical, genomic, and proteomic domains—by leveraging the capabilities of Abu Dhabi-based firms specialising in healthcare delivery and data coalition, which includes partners like Mohamed bin Zayed University of Artificial Intelligence (MBZUAI) and Hub71, intends to facilitate targeted interventions to solve some of the most complex and cost-intensive healthcare challenges—oncology, rare diseases, and metabolic disorders. Through the establishment of a comprehensive precision medicine ecosystem, this healthcare coalition aims to bring positive, patient-centred outcomes. ADVERTISEMENT The collaboration will also focus on expediting the generation of intellectual property and facilitating the commercialisation of advanced healthcare innovations within the emirate. Companies engaged in the co-development of AI-enabled discovery technologies will gain access to ADIO's competitive support offerings to establish and grow their operations within the HELM cluster and expand into international Excellency Dr Noura Khamis Al Ghaithi, Undersecretary of DoH, said: 'AI and data are today's enablers of smarter, predictive, preventive, and more personalised care. Through the HELM cluster, we are building a globally connected ecosystem that empowers researchers, innovators, and investors to unlock the full potential of data-driven discovery. From early diagnostics to personalised therapies, Abu Dhabi is positioning itself as a hub where cutting-edge science meets real-world impact.' Nurturing talent and startups through deep tech integration With foundational backing from some of Abu Dhabi's most influential institutions, including DoH, ADIO, ADIA Lab, Abu Dhabi Stem Cells Centre (ADSCC), NYU Abu Dhabi, UAE University, Hub71 and MBZUAI, the HELM cluster is emerging as a critical platform for companies and talent at the intersection of life sciences and deep tech. Each partner contributes distinct strategic value that integrates cutting-edge technologies with real-world healthcare challenges. This lays the foundations for a new generation of homegrown entrepreneurs, researchers and DoH provides a progressive regulatory environment conducive to innovation, while unlocking access to clinical networks and healthcare infrastructure. ADIO accelerates market entry and expansion with tailored investor support through competitive business and facilitation services. ADIA Lab injects deep expertise in AI and computational science and analytics, which are core to unlocking insights from complex health datasets at institutions contribute the scientific aspect. ADSCC and NYU Abu Dhabi provide frontline expertise in regenerative medicine, genomics and personalised therapeutics. UAE University adds academic rigour and a robust talent pipeline to sustain long-term innovation Abu Dhabi's global tech ecosystem, connects startups to funding, expert mentorship and international market access, enabling early-stage companies to commercialise and scale globally. MBZUAI integrates cutting-edge AI capabilities into the cluster by combining research, education and industry collaboration to drive the development of intelligent health fully integrated cluster aims to cultivate talent and accelerate the growth of high-potential ventures. Through coordinated initiatives like training programmes, research fellowships, innovation challenges and infrastructure sharing, HELM is positioning Abu Dhabi as a hub for healthtech innovation and a magnet for global talent. By merging deep tech with life sciences, HELM is establishing a sustainable innovation ecosystem capable of transforming healthcare both locally and noted that through close collaboration with startups and industry stakeholders, the HELM cluster seeks to provide researchers, students, and entrepreneurs with the necessary skills and supportive ecosystem to advance transformative innovations in areas such as precision medicine, genomics, and pharmaceutical development—further strengthening Abu Dhabi's position as a global centre for AI-enabled healthcare innovation. The next era in preventive and personalised care With non-communicable diseases such as cardiovascular illnesses and diabetes rising across the region and globally, HELM is set to accelerate the research, development, manufacturing, and commercialisation of groundbreaking medicines, biotechnologies, and therapies. By integrating AI and advanced healthcare data analytics, the initiative provides support to develop scalable infrastructure for managing and analysing complex healthcare data, including clinical, genomic, and proteomic datasets, fleveraging Abu Dhabi-based companies' expertise in healthcare services and data management. The ecosystem also supports Abu Dhabi's broader ambition of transitioning from a reactive to a preventive health model—one where longevity, quality of life, and individualised treatment are central outcomes. A legacy of collaboration and ambitionADGHW 2025 closed with a clear message: Abu Dhabi is building and reimagining the future of healthcare. From forging precision medicine alliances to enabling AI-powered breakthroughs through HELM, the event showcased how multisector collaboration, government leadership, and innovation ecosystems can converge to redefine the boundaries of healthcare. As the global health landscape evolves, Abu Dhabi's efforts signal a paradigm shift—where the integration of science, technology, and policy becomes the cornerstone for delivering resilient, equitable, and sustainable health systems for generations to come. Disclaimer: This content was authored by the content team of the ET Spotlight team. The news and editorial staff of ET had no role in the creation of this article. (You can now subscribe to our Economic Times WhatsApp channel) (This article is generated and published by ET Spotlight team. You can get in touch with them on etspotlight@

Abu Dhabi Global Health Week 2025 wrap-up: HELM initiative will drive  healthcare partnerships,  AI-led drug discovery and life science innovation across the Middle East
Abu Dhabi Global Health Week 2025 wrap-up: HELM initiative will drive  healthcare partnerships,  AI-led drug discovery and life science innovation across the Middle East

Time of India

time24-06-2025

  • Health
  • Time of India

Abu Dhabi Global Health Week 2025 wrap-up: HELM initiative will drive healthcare partnerships, AI-led drug discovery and life science innovation across the Middle East

The second edition of Abu Dhabi Global Health Week (ADGHW) 2025, held under the theme 'Towards Longevity: Redefining Health and Well-being', marked a significant milestone for the UAE's healthcare ambitions. Held in April 2025 at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre (ADNEC) under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Executive Council, ADGHW 2025 concluded on a note of collaborative spirit, ambition, and hope. Delivering 69 engaging sessions and facilitating the signing of 33 strategic Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs), the event convened 14,290 visitors, 1,295 delegates from global organisations, 140 exhibitors, and 271 visionary speakers from 95 countries. Symbolising the emirate's commitment to becoming a global health innovation leader, the announcement of the Health, Endurance, Longevity, and Medicine (HELM) cluster—a cross-institutional initiative led by the Abu Dhabi Investment Office (ADIO) and the Department of Health—came as a major boost to its cross-border healthcare goals, propelled by artificial intelligence (AI) and data-led innovations. The HELM cluster signals a deliberate and strategic evolution of the UAE's life sciences ecosystem, designed to catalyse long-term economic value through health innovation Abu Dhabi's new frontier in life sciences and AI Live Events Designed to accelerate the discovery, development, and commercialisation of next-generation medicines, biotechnologies, and personalised therapies, the initiative will be centred on AI and data-centric care ecosystems. Alessandro Borgogna, Advisor – Cluster Planning and Development at ADIO, said: "HELM is a critical part of ADIO's long-term economic cluster strategy. By concentrating capabilities in health, research and data science within a single integrated cluster, HELM strengthens the emirate's position in healthcare and life sciences that will define the future prosperity and well-being of citizens and residents. The cluster reflects a clear shift from fragmented investment to targeted, high-impact innovation, anchored in infrastructure, highly-skilled talent and strategic partnerships." Alessandro affirmed how this collaboration exemplifies Abu Dhabi's economic ability where world-class institutions, advanced infrastructure, and progressive policies come together to create a conducive environment for businesses to scale, innovate, and drive lasting impact in life science innovation. Guided by ADIO's cluster development strategy, HELM is creating the foundation for an 'AI-powered discovery ecosystem,' structured to foster end-to-end innovation across research, regulation and commercial deployment. Precision medicine momentum, multi-partner alliance Through an AI-driven discovery ecosystem, the HELM cluster's mission is to fuel the development of novel therapeutics. The initiative includes support for creating scalable infrastructure to handle and interpret large volumes of complex healthcare data—spanning clinical, genomic, and proteomic domains—by leveraging the capabilities of Abu Dhabi-based firms specialising in healthcare delivery and data solutions. This coalition, which includes partners like Mohamed bin Zayed University of Artificial Intelligence (MBZUAI) and Hub71, intends to facilitate targeted interventions to solve some of the most complex and cost-intensive healthcare challenges—oncology, rare diseases, and metabolic disorders. Through the establishment of a comprehensive precision medicine ecosystem, this healthcare coalition aims to bring positive, patient-centred outcomes. The collaboration will also focus on expediting the generation of intellectual property and facilitating the commercialisation of advanced healthcare innovations within the emirate. Companies engaged in the co-development of AI-enabled discovery technologies will gain access to ADIO's competitive support offerings to establish and grow their operations within the HELM cluster and expand into international markets. Her Excellency Dr Noura Khamis Al Ghaithi, Undersecretary of DoH, said: 'AI and data are today's enablers of smarter, predictive, preventive, and more personalised care. Through the HELM cluster, we are building a globally connected ecosystem that empowers researchers, innovators, and investors to unlock the full potential of data-driven discovery. From early diagnostics to personalised therapies, Abu Dhabi is positioning itself as a hub where cutting-edge science meets real-world impact.' Nurturing talent and startups through deep tech integration With foundational backing from some of Abu Dhabi's most influential institutions, including DoH, ADIO, ADIA Lab, Abu Dhabi Stem Cells Centre (ADSCC), NYU Abu Dhabi, UAE University, Hub71 and MBZUAI, the HELM cluster is emerging as a critical platform for companies and talent at the intersection of life sciences and deep tech. Each partner contributes distinct strategic value that integrates cutting-edge technologies with real-world healthcare challenges. This lays the foundations for a new generation of homegrown entrepreneurs, researchers and technologists. The DoH provides a progressive regulatory environment conducive to innovation, while unlocking access to clinical networks and healthcare infrastructure. ADIO accelerates market entry and expansion with tailored investor support through competitive business and facilitation services. ADIA Lab injects deep expertise in AI and computational science and analytics, which are core to unlocking insights from complex health datasets at scale. Research institutions contribute the scientific aspect. ADSCC and NYU Abu Dhabi provide frontline expertise in regenerative medicine, genomics and personalised therapeutics. UAE University adds academic rigour and a robust talent pipeline to sustain long-term innovation capacity. Hub71, Abu Dhabi's global tech ecosystem, connects startups to funding, expert mentorship and international market access, enabling early-stage companies to commercialise and scale globally. MBZUAI integrates cutting-edge AI capabilities into the cluster by combining research, education and industry collaboration to drive the development of intelligent health technologies. This fully integrated cluster aims to cultivate talent and accelerate the growth of high-potential ventures. Through coordinated initiatives like training programmes, research fellowships, innovation challenges and infrastructure sharing, HELM is positioning Abu Dhabi as a hub for healthtech innovation and a magnet for global talent. By merging deep tech with life sciences, HELM is establishing a sustainable innovation ecosystem capable of transforming healthcare both locally and globally. Haddadin noted that through close collaboration with startups and industry stakeholders, the HELM cluster seeks to provide researchers, students, and entrepreneurs with the necessary skills and supportive ecosystem to advance transformative innovations in areas such as precision medicine, genomics, and pharmaceutical development—further strengthening Abu Dhabi's position as a global centre for AI-enabled healthcare innovation. The next era in preventive and personalised care With non-communicable diseases such as cardiovascular illnesses and diabetes rising across the region and globally, HELM is set to accelerate the research, development, manufacturing, and commercialisation of groundbreaking medicines, biotechnologies, and therapies. By integrating AI and advanced healthcare data analytics, the initiative provides support to develop scalable infrastructure for managing and analysing complex healthcare data, including clinical, genomic, and proteomic datasets, fleveraging Abu Dhabi-based companies' expertise in healthcare services and data management. The ecosystem also supports Abu Dhabi's broader ambition of transitioning from a reactive to a preventive health model—one where longevity, quality of life, and individualised treatment are central outcomes. A legacy of collaboration and ambition ADGHW 2025 closed with a clear message: Abu Dhabi is building and reimagining the future of healthcare. From forging precision medicine alliances to enabling AI-powered breakthroughs through HELM, the event showcased how multisector collaboration, government leadership, and innovation ecosystems can converge to redefine the boundaries of healthcare. As the global health landscape evolves, Abu Dhabi's efforts signal a paradigm shift—where the integration of science, technology, and policy becomes the cornerstone for delivering resilient, equitable, and sustainable health systems for generations to come.

Rewriting the health playbook: How Abu Dhabi is scaling AI and digital care
Rewriting the health playbook: How Abu Dhabi is scaling AI and digital care

Time of India

time24-06-2025

  • Health
  • Time of India

Rewriting the health playbook: How Abu Dhabi is scaling AI and digital care

In April 2025, global health leaders, policymakers, innovators, and researchers convened for Abu Dhabi Global Health Week (ADGHW)—a flagship initiative of the Department of Health – Abu Dhabi (DoH). Held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Executive Council, the year-round global platform advances transformative solutions across health and life sciences. Health doesn't operate in a silo; it calls for critical thinking and collaboration among practitioners, policymakers, pharmaceutical leaders, researchers, and frontline healthcare workers accelerating shared health ambitions worldwide. The 2025 theme, 'Towards Longevity: Redefining Health and Well-being,' mirrors ADGHW's ambition: shifting from episodic treatment to continuous, preventive, and personalised care. The promise of digital health and AI One pressing theme that has dominated the public health discourse in the past few years is digital health and artificial intelligence (AI). Advanced technologies are unlocking new frontiers by improving access, enhancing clinical outcomes, and supporting more resilient health systems. From remote monitoring, AI-diagnostics, to telemedicine and predictive analysis, Abu Dhabi is reimagining care pathways to deliver personalised treatment while empowering providers with real-time, data-driven insights. ET Spotlight H.E. Dr. Noura Khamis Al Ghaithi, Undersecretary of the Department of Health – Abu Dhabi According to H.E. Dr. Noura Khamis Al Ghaithi, Undersecretary of the Department of Health – Abu Dhabi, 'Digital health allows us to tailor care to the needs of each individual while improving access across diverse communities. Whether through telemedicine platforms or data-enabled prevention strategies, our focus is on strengthening system resilience and enhancing patient outcomes.' Abu Dhabi's growing trust-based health data and technical infrastructure presents a fertile ground for innovation. Initiatives such as Malaffi, the region's first Health Information Exchange, and the Emirati Genome Program are central to this vision. While the former facilitates real-time data sharing among care providers, the latter creates a unique dataset to analyse genetic predispositions to build better individual and population-level responses in health management. Live Events India's interest in scaling population health genomics (through initiatives such as the Genome India project, which aims to map the genetic diversity of the Indian population) aligns with such frameworks in Abu Dhabi. Data governance, ethical AI usage, and consent frameworks are some of the fronts where cross-border collaboration could be envisioned. Innovation Through Strategic Initiatives Initiatives announced at ADGHW 2025 reflect Abu Dhabi's role as a global health innovation leader, unveiling a suite of bold new initiatives that move digital health from concept to execution. Notably, the launch of the Health, Endurance, Longevity, and Medicine (HELM) Cluster—a partnership between the Abu Dhabi Investment Office, Mohamed bin Zayed University of Artificial Intelligence, and Hub71—signals a bold step toward advancing health life sciences, R&D, and building a robust ecosystem for medical innovation, pharmaceutical manufacturing, and biotechnology. The Startup Zone and Smart Health Hackathon spotlighted emerging innovators tackling real-world health challenges through AI-powered and digital-first approaches. The inaugural ADGHW Innovation Awards were also introduced, recognising breakthroughs that are driving meaningful improvements in patient outcomes, healthcare accessibility, and system efficiency. A human-centred approach to innovation However, digital transformation in healthcare transcends the technological realm. It must be rooted in the realities of patients and on-ground experiences that have emerged from years of clinical practice. Dr. Asma Al Mannaei, Executive Director of the of the Health Life Sciences Sector at the Department of Health – Abu Dhabi, underscores its impact; 'The future of health is patient-centred. Technology is a powerful enabler, but the true impact comes when innovations align with human need.' Technologies shown at ADGHW are shifting health towards proactive and predictive models of care, helping individuals manage chronic conditions, while algorithms interpret patient data to identify health risks before they escalate. B uilding a future-ready healthcare workforce The success of this transformation depends equally on human capital. As AI and digital tools become more embedded in health workflows, there is a growing need for skilled professionals who can operate in hybrid, tech-enabled environments. 'Investing in workforce development is key to realising the benefits of digital health,' notes Dr. Rashed Obaid Al Suwaidi, Director General of the Abu Dhabi Public Health Centre (ADPHC) . 'Our role is to ensure that future clinicians and allied health professionals are equipped with both clinical and digital competencies, ensuring a seamless integration of innovation into care delivery.' This is true in the context of India as well, as it seeks to upskill its healthcare workforce to adopt emerging technologies. Abu Dhabi's initiatives present a model for India's academic and public-private institutions. The focus is on supporting the development of an AI-trained workforce capable of advancing both diagnostic precision and operational efficiency. Public health, equity, and global collaboration ADGHW 2025 also steered conversations on policy innovation, to drive an actionable agenda across global collaborators. A major milestone was the launch of a Global Declaration on Longevity and Precision Health, outlining an actionable agenda to extend both lifespan and healthspan through international cooperation and innovation, placing longevity at the heart of global health priorities. The Department of Health – Abu Dhabi (DoH) also signed a landmark Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), which focuses on advancing precision medicine and genomics in oncology, rare genetic disorders, and metabolic diseases, leveraging AI and collaborative research to pioneer new treatment pathways. This multi-stakeholder partnership included PureHealth, M42, Illumina, Khalifa University (KU), New York University Abu Dhabi (NYUAD), and the Institute for Healthier Living Abu Dhabi (IHLAD). In a world-first, Abu Dhabi unveiled the AI-powered Population Health Intelligence Framework—a learning health system designed to continuously predict, prevent, and respond to public health challenges through AI and real-time analytics. 'Public health must be inclusive, data-informed, and anticipatory,' says H.E. Dr. Rached Obaid Al Suwaidi, Director-General of Abu Dhabi Public Health Center (ADPHC). 'Through ADGHW, we are advocating for integrated approaches that connect population health strategies with emerging digital tools.' This intersection of innovation and inclusion is critical as healthcare systems globally face challenges of scale, access, and sustainability. Through these measures, Abu Dhabi is positioning itself as both a contributor and convener in shaping the global health agenda. Infrastructure for impact Technology alone does not deliver transformation, it must be embedded within systems designed for agility, interoperability, and scale. Ibrahim Al Jallaf, Division Director of Digital Health at DoH, underscores that 'Our focus is on integrating digital health tools into a unified ecosystem. Whether it's through regulatory frameworks, investment incentives, or data platforms, we are building the infrastructure to support sustained impact.' ADGHW also provides the economic foundation for this transformation. By 2045, Abu Dhabi's life sciences sector is projected to contribute over AED 94 billion to GDP and generate more than 30,000 jobs. This economic vision is tightly interlinked with the health innovation agenda, making the Emirate a compelling hub for Indian health tech startups seeking Middle East expansion. From Abu Dhabi to the world As a year-round platform, ADGHW fosters a strategic bridge between global health priorities and local capacity, creating a space where data, expertise, and ambition converge. For leaders across government, academia, industry, and civil society, it presents an opportunity to co-create solutions that resonate far beyond borders, enhancing health outcomes not only for individuals but for entire communities and nations.

Investing in tomorrow's health: Abu Dhabi's strategic health and life sciences agenda
Investing in tomorrow's health: Abu Dhabi's strategic health and life sciences agenda

Time of India

time24-06-2025

  • Health
  • Time of India

Investing in tomorrow's health: Abu Dhabi's strategic health and life sciences agenda

Abu Dhabi Global Health Week (ADGHW) 2025 showcased the Emirate's bold vision to transform health and life sciences into a powerhouse of innovation, investment, and economic growth. More than a hub for health delivery, Abu Dhabi has positioned itself as a platform for global breakthroughs, where technologists, scientists, investors, and policymakers co-create solutions backed by committed capital, agile regulation, and a unified health ecosystem. Held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Executive Council and organised by the Department of Health – Abu Dhabi (DoH), this year's edition was anchored around the theme 'Towards Longevity: Redefining Health and Well-being.' The event provided a platform for leaders in policy, technology, finance, and research to explore a new paradigm—one that integrates artificial intelligence (AI), data science, genomics, and patient-centred design to achieve better outcomes. Abu Dhabi's Evolving Model At the core of ADGHW 2025 is Abu Dhabi's focus on longevity, prevention, and precision health, driven by advanced technologies and a connected health ecosystem. The Emirate's commitment to personalised care is supported by world-class research centres, integrated data platforms, investment-friendly policies, and forward-thinking regulations. The launch of the Health, Endurance, Longevity, and Medicine Cluster (HELM) marked a major milestone. Designed to attract international investment and talent, HELM will accelerate Abu Dhabi's transition into a global hub for biotech, MedTech, and life sciences manufacturing. By 2045, the cluster is projected to contribute AED 94 billion (USD 25.6 billion) to GDP and attract AED 42 billion (USD 11.4 billion) in investment. The cluster integrates cutting-edge laboratories, advanced manufacturing facilities, and a supportive regulatory environment to fast-track innovation from lab to market. 'We are building an intelligent health system that embeds AI, genomics, and data-driven insights into every layer of care,' said H.E. Dr. Noura Khamis Al Ghaithi, Undersecretary of Department of Health. 'Our vision is globally connected, prevention-first model, delivering personalised impact at scale, supported by strategic investment, bold partnerships, and a unified ecosystem.' Live Events Abu Dhabi is cultivating a thriving life sciences sector, evolving from an import-heavy, treatment-oriented model to a regional hub for R&D, clinical innovation, and biotech scale-up. Investors are taking notice. Complementing HELM, a landmark infrastructure agreement between DoH, the Abu Dhabi Investment Office (ADIO), and Masdar City will establish state-of-the-art life sciences laboratories to enable R&D, support early-stage ventures, and foster academic–industry collaboration. The goal: translate research into commercially viable solutions and grow the life sciences economy from bench to bedside. E mbedding Intelligence in Health The Emirate's vision for health innovation includes significant investment in digital infrastructure and talent. From telehealth to AI-integrated diagnostics and predictive analytics, Abu Dhabi is embedding intelligence across the patient journey—while building a skilled workforce ready to harness emerging technologies. 'Abu Dhabi is not just adopting digital health tools—we're architects of a smart health ecosystem,' said Ibrahim Al Jallaf, Executive Director of Digital Health at Department of Health (DoH). 'By aligning regulation, education, innovation, and investment, we're creating a seamless, data-driven care environment that empowers both clinicians and patients.' Strategic Health Infrastructure Abu Dhabi's life sciences push is supported by initiatives that extend beyond innovation to include robust global logistics. A key announcement at ADGHW 2025 was the inauguration of a regional vaccine distribution hub—a major milestone in the Emirate's strategy to strengthen global health supply chains. Building on a 2024 MoU with GSK, the hub leverages Abu Dhabi's strategic location, advanced logistics infrastructure, and strong regulatory frameworks to ensure rapid, equitable access to vaccines across regional and global markets. This initiative underscores Abu Dhabi's integrated approach to health innovation, where infrastructure, policy, and international collaboration converge to create a future-ready health system that is agile, inclusive, and impact-driven. Life Sciences as an economic engine The life sciences sector is fast becoming a cornerstone of Abu Dhabi's economic diversification strategy. Recent projections indicate the sector will contribute over AED 94 billion to GDP by 2045 and create more than 30,000 jobs. With streamlined regulation, strong intellectual property protections, and support for public–private partnerships, Abu Dhabi offers a compelling environment for investors. Its world-class logistics and distribution networks further enhance its attractiveness as a base for pharmaceutical and MedTech companies looking to scale. Strengthening global ties India and Abu Dhabi share strategic interests in health technology and research translation. Ongoing collaborations in digital diagnostics, genomics, and health data governance create space for joint innovation, particularly relevant as both nations invest in technology-led, accessible healthcare models. Looking ahead Abu Dhabi is not just building a health system; it is building a future-ready life sciences economy. Through bold policy, cross-sector collaboration, and long-term investment, it is creating a platform where global breakthroughs are enabled and scaled responsibly. In a world seeking resilient, innovative health systems, Abu Dhabi offers a powerful and actionable model for the future of global health innovation.

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