Today's Edition
ABU DHABI (ALETIHAD)
The Department of Health – Abu Dhabi (DoH), in partnership with the Authority of Social Contribution – Ma’an, has awarded more than AED19 million in grants through the Healthcare Research and Innovation Fund. The grants will support advancements in groundbreaking fields such as cell and gene therapies, precision medicine, and advanced cancer treatments, to transform healthcare delivery and improve patient outcomes.
The accomplishment follows the recognition garnered during the inaugural Abu Dhabi Global Healthcare Week 2024. DoH awarded funding to 11 recipients, including academics, healthcare professionals, and innovators, to support their research and innovation projects in coordination with DoH’s Research and Innovation Centre. These projects are recognised for addressing critical healthcare challenges and advancing patient care.
The grant recipients are focused on advancing cancer research, leveraging technology and improving chronic disease management, by offering solutions such as virtual reality for breast cancer survivors, paediatric metabolic health, precision medicine, and treatments for inherited eye diseases. These diverse initiatives reinforce the transformative potential of medical research in solving pressing healthcare issues.
Dr Asma Al Mannaei, Executive Director of the Health Life Sciences Sector at DoH, said: “Research funding is the foundation of progress, enabling innovators to turn ideas into life-changing solutions. These grants empower innovators to develop transformative solutions, improve patient outcomes, and reinforce Abu Dhabi’s position as a global healthcare leader. By investing in research, we are building a healthcare ecosystem that is proactive, adaptive, and compassionate, designed to meet the needs of our community while shaping the future of healthcare globally. We proudly recognise and support these visionaries as they pave the way for a healthier future.”
Faisal Alhmoudi, Executive Director of the Social Investment Fund at Ma’an, said: “We are thrilled with the significant contributions towards healthcare, a vital sector that we focus on. In line with our objective of addressing social priorities in the emirate, these grants will enhance the sector to play a key role in advancing healthcare for the entire community. We remain dedicated to driving sustainable social responsibility partnerships across the public, private, and social sectors to develop social projects and initiatives that improve the quality of life for everyone in Abu Dhabi.”
The grants, awarded at the inaugural DoH Research and Innovation Summit, are part of DoH’s strategy to transform the regional healthcare sector through science, technology, and community collaboration. The summit brought together 200 researchers, innovators, investors, and policymakers to foster partnerships and create a thriving ecosystem for healthcare innovation.
The meeting attracted international participants, including entrepreneurs and scientists. Panel discussions explored the research and development ecosystem in the UAE, highlighting the opportunities and challenges of conducting clinical trials in the region. The discussions gathered experts from industry and academia, fostering collaboration to advance cutting-edge research in Abu Dhabi and beyond.
