UAE and Moderna explore advanced pharmaceutical partnership opportunities
Minister of State Saeed Al Hajeri and Moderna's founder discuss investment and cooperation in biotechnology, research and development.
A meeting between Saeed bin Mubarak Al Hajeri, Minister of State and Chairman of the Emirates Drug Establishment, and Dr. Noubar Afeyan, Founder and Chief Executive of Flagship Pioneering and Co-founder and Chairman of Moderna, has explored significant opportunities for collaboration in advanced pharmaceutical industries.
The discussion, held in New York, reflects the deepening strategic partnership between the United Arab Emirates and the United States. Both parties examined potential avenues for investment and cooperation within priority sectors of mutual interest, building upon the strong foundations of bilateral relations.
Particular emphasis was placed upon research and development capabilities, with both sides considering mechanisms for exchanging expertise and knowledge. The conversation also addressed the strengthening of pharmaceutical manufacturing capabilities within the UAE, alongside support for research initiatives and clinical trials that would expand the nation’s scientific and industrial foundation.
The discussions explored how Moderna’s considerable scientific and technological expertise could be complemented by the competitive advantages inherent in the UAE’s business environment. Such partnerships, the parties recognised, could attract high-value investments that would stimulate growth within the pharmaceutical sector and facilitate the development of advanced therapeutic solutions.
Al Hajeri outlined the comprehensive environment the Emirates offers to global pharmaceutical enterprises, emphasising the nation’s advanced infrastructure, enabling regulatory frameworks and attractive investment incentives. These advantages, he noted, position the country as an increasingly compelling destination for knowledge-based and technology-driven ventures.
The Minister underscored that developing national capabilities remains paramount to advancing the UAE’s pharmaceutical sector. International partnerships, he stressed, provide pathways to building sustainable expertise, expanding the talented pool of Emirati professionals and strengthening the nation’s standing within pharmaceuticals and life sciences globally.
Source: WAM