MENA Newswire News Desk: The Department of Health – Abu Dhabi (DoH), in partnership with the Authority of Social Contribution (Ma’an), has successfully raised over AED15 million to support healthcare research and innovation initiatives across the Emirate. The funds, gathered during the inaugural Abu Dhabi Global Healthcare Week 2024, reflect a robust collaboration between DoH, Ma’an, and key community stakeholders.
This initiative aligns with the Department of Health’s mission to transform the regional healthcare landscape through the use of science and technology. Several programs have been launched to support researchers, innovators, and entrepreneurs in tackling critical challenges in healthcare. These efforts are further strengthening Abu Dhabi’s position as a global hub for life sciences and an incubator for healthcare innovation, benefiting not only the Emirate but also the wider region.
As part of its shift towards preventive healthcare, DoH has identified key research areas, including cell and gene research, precision medicine, neurodegenerative and neuroinflammatory diseases, cancer diagnosis and treatment, and behavioral health for People of Determination. The Department is also focusing on emergency preparedness for emerging infectious diseases, longevity studies, telemedicine, and smart healthcare facilities.
Dr. Noura Al Ghaithi, Under-Secretary of the Department of Health – Abu Dhabi (DoH), highlighted the significance of these efforts, saying, “DoH is committed to working with our partners to cement Abu Dhabi’s status as a global leader in life sciences and healthcare innovation. Research and innovation are essential to ensuring the effectiveness of healthcare systems and delivering world-class care to our communities.”
She added, “Addressing funding challenges remains a top priority for DoH. By launching collaborative initiatives with local and international partners, we aim to foster a strong culture of research and innovation within the sector. These partnerships will help convert pre-clinical research into practical applications and drive clinical trials, ultimately supporting healthcare providers and professionals in advancing care.”
DoH is recognized globally for its role in promoting research and innovation in fields such as artificial intelligence, medical devices, telemedicine, big data, and wearable technology. The Department has helped incubate over 85 startups and continues to collaborate with global partners to expand Abu Dhabi’s health-tech ecosystem.
To further this commitment, the Department regularly launches research grants, offering up to AED2 million to support projects in Abu Dhabi’s healthcare ecosystem. These grants are designed to empower researchers, innovators, and institutions, driving advancements that will shape the future of healthcare for generations to come.