Abu Dhabi is set to create more than 20,000 jobs in the life sciences sector by 2035. Mansoor Al Mansoori, Chairman of the Department of Health and member of the Abu Dhabi Executive Council, shared this vision at Abu Dhabi Finance Week. This initiative highlights the emirate’s dedication to economic growth and innovation.
“By 2035, Abu Dhabi aims to add over AED 100 billion to its GDP through the life sciences sector,” Al Mansoori said. He emphasized the region’s efforts to advance personalized healthcare by integrating advanced technologies into its health system.
Life Sciences sector in Abu Dhabi
Life sciences, which study living organisms and processes, include key fields like biology, anatomy, astrobiology, and biotechnology. Abu Dhabi’s life sciences ecosystem has expanded significantly, with a 25% increase in localized firms and over 180 clinical studies in 2024.
“For us, health is wealth. A healthy population drives societal well-being and fuels economic growth,” Al Mansoori explained. The approach focuses on three pillars: promoting a healthy population, delivering world-class services, and adopting cutting-edge technologies.
He emphasized the shift from reactive healthcare to proactive solutions, aiming to predict and prevent illnesses using advanced data insights. “Abu Dhabi’s healthcare system uniquely combines genomic and lifestyle data, creating a digital twin of our population,” he added.
World’s largest genome project in Abu Dhabi
Furthermore, the city is completing the world’s largest genome project, alongside developing an extensive reference genome. These advancements enable personalized medical solutions, such as tailored cardiovascular screenings and cancer treatments based on individual genetic profiles.
The emirate is also fostering partnerships that promote sustainable industry growth and improve lives. “Abu Dhabi doesn’t just deliver numbers; it builds collaborations that shape industries and create lasting change,” Al Mansoori noted.
With its focus on innovation, the UAE capital aims to position itself as a global leader in life sciences. Its rapid progress underscores the emirate’s commitment to driving economic and social transformation on an international scale.
