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Emirates Drug Establishment
Wara Samar

10th September 2024

All You Need to Know About Emirates Drug Establishment (EDE): UAE’s New Regulatory Body

Emirates Drug Establishment (EDE) is the UAE’s newly appointed independent regulatory body overseeing the pharmaceutical and medical device industries. This strategic move, effective from 30 September 2023, represents a significant step forward in ensuring the country’s long-
term healthcare innovation and regulatory integrity.

The formation of the EDE, replacing the regulatory functions previously held by the Ministry of Health and Prevention (MOHAP), signals the UAE’s commitment to enhancing its position as a global leader in medical technology and pharmaceuticals. Alongside pharmaceuticals and medical devices, the EDE will regulate cosmetics, dietary supplements, genetically modified organisms (GMOs), fertilizers, pesticides, agricultural conditioners, and plant growth regulators. Additionally, the EDE will assume certain regulatory competencies from the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment (MOCCAE) related to these products.

Strengthening the UAE’s Global Position

The Emirates Drug Establishment’s core mission includes fostering robust research and development ecosystem, facilitating the production, development, and export of high-quality pharmaceutical and medical products. By creating a streamlined regulatory environment, the EDE will ensure that products meet the highest global standards of quality, effectiveness, and safety.

The transfer of responsibilities from MOHAP and MOCCAE to the EDE is expected to take several months. Until the transition is complete, the current regulators will continue to oversee relevant functions to ensure regulatory continuity and smooth handover.

Leadership Driving Innovation

In December 2023, the UAE Cabinet approved the formation of the EDE’s Board of Directors and appointed Her Excellency Dr. Fatima Alkaabi as Director General. Dr. Alkaabi is a renowned leader in the healthcare field, having held senior positions at Sheikh Khalifa Medical City and Abu Dhabi Stem Cell Centre.

Dr. Alkaabi’s leadership not only reflects the UAE’s focus on healthcare innovation but also stands as a symbol of the country’s broader mission to elevate women in leadership positions, particularly in critical sectors such as health, science, and technology.

Dr. Dylan Attard, CEO and Co-founder of MedTech World, says, “We are excited to witness the UAE’s commitment to strengthening its health sector with the establishment of the Emirates Drug Establishment. This progressive step aligns with MedTech World’s mission to foster innovation in medtech and healthcare industries worldwide. The EDE’s formation will not only ensure a future-proof regulatory environment but also elevate the UAE’s standing as a global hub for pharmaceutical and medical technology excellence. We look forward to seeing how this will drive forward both industry standards and advancements in health technology.”

The establishment of the Emirates Drug Establishment marks a significant milestone for the UAE, paving the way for increased investment, innovation, and international collaboration in the medical and pharmaceutical industries. Undoubtedly, these significant steps will foster the growth of the MedTech industry for all stakeholders, encouraging further advancements in healthcare technology, regulatory frameworks, and market expansion.

At MedTech World, we believe our vision for the GCC aligns with the UAE’s aspirations. The UAE’s focus on healthcare innovation and empowerment mirrors our mission to accelerate MedTech breakthroughs and foster collaboration across the region. As the UAE continues to prioritize excellence and forward-thinking leadership, we are confident that these developments will create a vibrant ecosystem for MedTech innovation, benefiting patients, healthcare providers, and investors alike.

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