The Department of Health – Abu Dhabi (DoH) and Novartis Middle East FZE have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) at the BIO 2024 International Convention to collaborate on advancing solutions in multiple therapeutic areas, with a focus on genomics research and radioligand therapy for cancer patients.
The agreement, signed by Dr. Asma Ibrahim Al Mannaei, Executive Director of the Research and Innovation Centre at DoH, and Ibrahim Aqel, Head of Government Affairs and Value & Access – Gulf at Novartis, establishes two priority focus areas: advancing clinical genomics research for real-world evidence (RWE) and generating evidence to support understanding of radioligand therapy (RLT) for cancer treatment.
Strategic Focus on Precision Medicine
This collaboration will utilize Abu Dhabi's genomics expertise and regulatory framework to enhance clinical research capabilities and generate real-world evidence. The partnership will explore innovative solutions and genomics research specifically in oncology, cardiovascular disease, and neuroscience.
A key component of the agreement involves promoting radioligand therapy – a form of precision nuclear medicine designed to recognize and treat disease in patients with advanced cancers. The partners will work to generate and disseminate evidence supporting the awareness and understanding of RLT among key stakeholders.
"Novartis has been a long-standing partner to the Department of Health, and we are proud to explore these new areas of opportunity to collaborate for the ultimate benefit of patients in the region and beyond," said Dr. Asma Ibrahim Al Mannaei. "We believe that this partnership will allow us to further accelerate the field of personalised and precision medicine across important therapeutic areas."
Supporting the Emirati Genome Programme
The partnership extends beyond research to address local and regional health needs. Novartis and DoH will support the Emirati Genome Programme by collaborating to raise awareness of genetic and rare diseases. Additionally, they will work to improve Health Technology Assessment through facilitated partnership and shared best practices.
Mohamed Ezz Eldin, Head of Gulf countries for Novartis, emphasized the significance of the collaboration: "This partnership represents a significant milestone in advancing research and innovation in healthcare, particularly in the fields of oncology, cardiovascular diseases, and neuroscience. Novartis is committed to supporting the development of clinical research capabilities in Abu Dhabi, generating real-world evidence, and raising awareness about radioligand therapy."
Part of Broader UAE-US Collaboration Initiative
The MoU signing occurred during a high-profile Abu Dhabi delegation visit to the United States between May 29 and June 5, 2024. Led by His Excellency Mansoor Ibrahim Al Mansoori, Chairman of the DoH, the delegation showcased partnership opportunities and explored collaborations with leading organizations in Research and Development, manufacturing, and innovation.
The delegation's transnational mission culminated at the BIO International Convention 2024 in San Diego, where Abu Dhabi exhibited the Emirate's growth and development in its biotechnology industry. The visit included meetings with existing and new partners to foster collaboration with leading education research institutions, governmental bodies, and health-tech organizations.
This partnership aligns with Abu Dhabi's strategic vision to establish itself as a hub for global life science and innovative research, combining expertise with strategic partners in pursuit of advancing precision medicine and improving patient outcomes.
