The Department of Health – Abu Dhabi (DoH), the regulator of the healthcare sector in Abu Dhabi, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Boehringer Ingelheim (BI), one of the world’s leading research-driven pharmaceutical companies. This strategic alliance aims to foster cutting-edge scientific research, promote innovation, and strengthen Abu Dhabi’s position as the premier healthcare and life sciences hub in the MENA region.
The signing ceremony took place at the BIO International Convention in Boston at the Abu Dhabi Pavilion. The agreement was signed by Dr. Asma Al Mannaei, Executive Director of the Health Life Sciences Sector at DoH, and Ghaleb Al Ahdab, Head of Public and Government Affairs, Near East and UAE at Boehringer Ingelheim. The event was attended by H.E. Dr. Noura Khamis Al Ghaithi, Undersecretary of DoH, and Ousama Alhaj, General Manager and Head of Human Pharma, Near East and UAE at BI.
Under this partnership, Abu Dhabi’s research ecosystem will be significantly strengthened through access to Boehringer Ingelheim’s OpnME platform. This open science platform offers researchers, scientists, and innovators in the Emirate a wealth of cutting-edge data and advanced resources to accelerate scientific discovery and address complex biological challenges. OpnME features four flagship programmes — Molecule to Order (M2O), Molecule for Collaboration (M4C), opn2EXPERTS (o2e), and opnTALENTS (o25) — providing access to advanced pharmaceutical compounds, opportunities for collaborative research, expert networks, and development pathways for emerging talent.
Dr. Asma Ibrahim Al Mannaei emphasized, “This partnership represents our dedication to driving innovation and scientific discovery to improve health outcomes and enhance quality of life worldwide. By equipping Abu Dhabi researchers with access to Boehringer Ingelheim’s OpnME platform, we are accelerating breakthroughs and strengthening the Emirate’s position as a global life sciences leader.”
Ousama Alhaj added, “We are honored to collaborate with the Department of Health – Abu Dhabi to empower the local scientific community. Through OpnME, we are providing vital resources to stimulate innovation, encourage collaboration, and support the next generation of researchers who will lead the future of healthcare.”
The partnership coincides with a high-level delegation led by DoH on a strategic mission to the United States from June 14 to 21, 2025. During the visit, the delegation will hold over 20 meetings with public and private sector leaders, explore investment opportunities, and sign new agreements to promote advanced healthcare solutions. Key members of Abu Dhabi’s innovation ecosystem are participating, including Abu Dhabi Investment Office, Mubadala BIO, M42, Masdar City, KEZAD, PureHealth, Etihad Cargo, NYU Abu Dhabi, Khalifa University, startAD, and MBZUAI.