The Emirates Drug Establishment concluded four days of participation in “Make it in the Emirates 2026,” held at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre from 4 to 7 May. The event produced strategic partnerships, industrial empowerment programmes, and initiatives supporting innovation and quality across the pharmaceutical sector.
The Emirates Drug Establishment presented a practical model combining regulatory environment development with empowerment of national industrial capabilities. The organization’s pavilion showcased advanced experiences in human pharmaceutical manufacturing from Global Pharma and Vieco Pharmaceuticals, alongside solutions in molecular diagnostics and cell therapy including AstraGene, SayGen Genetics, and the Abu Dhabi Stem Cell Centre.
Diverse Pharmaceutical Portfolio on Display
The exhibition featured models related to veterinary and agricultural products, including Al Alamia Veterinary Medicines Manufacturer, uTerra Middle East, and Gulf Perlite. Additionally, innovative initiatives and startups such as HIBA Pharma and the Bee Factory for Hearing Aids demonstrated the sector’s expanded scope. This integrated approach reflects adoption of the “One Health” concept, which connects human, animal, and environmental health while supporting pharmaceutical and food security.
The diversity showcased the expanding scope of the UAE’s pharmaceutical industry and its entry into high-value fields. The sector demonstrated its ability to combine production, research and development, and biotechnology, enhancing competitiveness and supporting opportunities for regional and international expansion. This comes amid growing demand for advanced pharmaceutical solutions and stable supply chains.
Strategic Agreements and Partnerships
The Emirates Drug Establishment signed agreements and memoranda of understanding with leading sector entities, including Global Pharma, Arcera Life Sciences, Mohamed bin Zayed University of Artificial Intelligence, and the Abu Dhabi Quality and Conformity Council. These agreements target the localisation of pharmaceutical industries, acceleration of local manufacturing projects, development of quality systems, and support for research and development. They also aimed to enhance digital transformation and artificial intelligence applications in the pharmaceutical sector.
The organization held strategic meetings with major global pharmaceutical and medical technology companies, including MSD, Novo Nordisk, Sandoz, Johnson & Johnson, and BMS. Discussions also involved the Malaysian Medical Device Authority, the Institute for Healthier Living Abu Dhabi, and the Trade Representative of the Russian Federation to the UAE. These meetings explored cooperation avenues in pharmaceutical innovation, clinical studies, research and development, and knowledge exchange.
Quality Training and Capacity Building
The Emirates Drug Establishment organized a specialized workshop for quality heads at national pharmaceutical factories on the sidelines of the exhibition. The workshop focused on Good Manufacturing Practice requirements, mechanisms for developing quality systems, and harmonising inspection procedures. It supported the ability of national cadres to manage quality within production processes and enhanced the readiness of local factories to apply global best practices.
Throughout the exhibition, the organization’s platform served as a direct interaction point with companies and key stakeholders. Extensive discussions addressed ways to develop local pharmaceutical manufacturing, quality requirements, and industrial partnerships. High-level official delegations and specialized figures praised the integration between advanced regulation, manufacturing, and innovation, describing it as a model aligned with the nation’s vision of building a knowledge-driven industrial system.
Strengthening Pharmaceutical Security and Global Position
The Emirates Drug Establishment emphasized that its participation translated policies into practical applications through developing legislative frameworks and modernizing procedures according to international standards. The organization’s role reinforces the UAE’s position as a regional and global hub for pharmaceutical industries and health innovation.
The establishment concluded participation with a recognition ceremony for exhibitors, acknowledging their contributions to supporting national manufacturing efforts and strengthening pharmaceutical security. The gesture reflected collaboration and partnership spirit, highlighting the pharmaceutical sector’s integration and commitment to building sustainable local capabilities aligned with broader health technology advancement.
