The Department of Health – Abu Dhabi (DoH) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Boehringer Ingelheim. The agreement focuses on advancing research into genetic drivers of disease within the emirate's genomics ecosystem.
Signed during the BIO International Convention 2026 in San Diego, the MoU was witnessed by Her Excellency Dr. Noura Khamis Al Ghaithi, Undersecretary of DoH. Dr. Mohamed Al Ameri, Division Director of Genome and Biobank at DoH, and Ghaleb Al Ahdab, Head of Public & Government Affairs UAE and Near East at Boehringer Ingelheim, formalised the partnership.
The collaboration targets several medical fields including cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, oncology, rare diseases, neurological disorders, metabolic diseases, fibrotic diseases, ophthalmology, and immunological conditions. Both organisations will investigate genetic and population-level factors influencing disease development and treatment responses.
Abu Dhabi has established a globally leading, end-to-end ecosystem for genomics and population health research.
— Dr. Asma Al Mannaei, Executive Director of the Health Life Sciences Sector at the Department of Health – Abu Dhabi
Dr. Asma Al Mannaei noted the collaboration reflects a commitment to use these capabilities to understand disease determinants. The generated knowledge aims to inform future research and advance personalised healthcare approaches.
Scientific breakthroughs increasingly emerge at the intersection of data, research, and collaboration.
— Ousama Alhaj, General Manager and Head of Human Pharma, Near East and UAE, Boehringer Ingelheim
Ousama Alhaj highlighted Abu Dhabi's investment in precision medicine enablers. The partnership seeks to deepen understanding of disease prevalence and address unmet medical needs. The DoH did not specify the financial duration or value of the agreement.
