Abu Dhabi to Build Region’s First Heavy-Ion Cancer Therapy Center

Abu Dhabi is taking a major step toward transforming cancer care in the Middle East. During this year’s Abu Dhabi Global Health Week, Hasan Jasem Al Nowais, Managing Director and Group Chief Executive Officer of M42 and Chairman of Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi, announced that the emirate will begin construction on the region’s first heavy-ion therapy center, an advanced cancer treatment facility, in partnership with Toshiba Energy Systems & Solutions Corporation.

A First for the Middle East

The new center, which will be located within M42’s Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi, will offer heavy-ion radiotherapy, a highly advanced form of cancer treatment that is currently available in only 15 centers globally. With this establishment in Abu Dhabi, the center will be a major milestone for both the UAE and the wider region.

Hasan Jasem Al Nowais, Managing Director and Group Chief Executive Officer of M42 and Chairman of Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi, during Abu Dhabi Global Health Week 2025

Construction is expected to begin in 2026. The facility aims to provide precision treatment for cancer patients using carbon ions accelerated to approximately 70% the speed of light. These heavy particle beams are able to more precisely target tumors while minimizing damage to surrounding healthy tissue, helping patients recover more quickly with fewer side effects.

M42: Building a Global Healthcare Powerhouse

Established in 2023, M42 is the result of a strategic merger between G42 Healthcare, backed by Abu Dhabi’s leading artificial intelligence company G42, and Mubadala Health, a subsidiary of the $330 billion sovereign wealth fund Mubadala Investment Company. Since then, M42 has rapidly expanded its reach across the healthcare sector.

Among its key moves was the acquisition of European dialysis provider Diaverum, positioning M42 as one of the region’s largest integrated healthcare companies. It has also partnered with leading biotechnology and genomics firms such as Illumina Inc. to explore the use of artificial intelligence in diagnostics and personalized care.

A Broader Push for Diversification

This latest initiative aligns with Abu Dhabi’s long-term goal to diversify its economy beyond oil. Healthcare has become a central pillar of that strategy, with significant investments being made in both infrastructure and innovation.

Earlier this year, PureHealth Holding PJSC, another Abu Dhabi-based healthcare entity, acquired a majority stake in a Greek hospital group from CVC Capital Partners in a deal valued at approximately $2.3 billion. These moves reflect a broader ambition to position the emirate as a global leader in health services.

M42 also oversees the Emirati Genome Programme, a national initiative focused on mapping genetic data to better understand, prevent, and treat chronic diseases affecting the local population. The data from this programme is expected to play a crucial role in shaping the future of personalized medicine in the UAE.

By introducing heavy-ion therapy to the region, M42 is setting a new benchmark in cancer care, signaling both technological progress and a deep commitment to patient-centered innovation.

MedTech Malta 2025

Join us in Valletta from 12 to 14 November for MedTech Malta 2025, where innovation meets opportunity in the heart of the Mediterranean. Whether you’re looking to pitch your startup, connect with industry leaders, explore sponsorships, or simply stay ahead of the curve, this is your chance to be part of a truly practical and engaging event. From insightful panels to curated networking and the MedTech Startup Pitch Competition, there’s something for everyone. Email [email protected] to explore how you can get involved, and secure your early bird ticket now before prices increase.