New partnerships could accelerate AI, Precision Medicine and the development of Next-Gen therapies
Abu Dhabi is exploring new healthcare research and technology partnerships with China following a series of meetings covering artificial intelligence, precision medicine, advanced diagnostics and the development of new treatments.
A delegation led by the Department of Health – Abu Dhabi (DoH) completed 32 meetings and site visits across Beijing, Shanghai and Shenzhen, bringing together healthcare institutions, universities and biotechnology companies from both countries.
The discussions focused on combining China’s scientific research and manufacturing capabilities with Abu Dhabi’s clinical infrastructure, genomic data and healthcare research programmes. Potential areas of collaboration include joint clinical studies, technology evaluation, knowledge transfer and the development of medical products for regional and international markets.
“Shaping the future of healthcare requires health ecosystems to connect scientific discovery and evidence with effective implementation and access to care. Innovation alone cannot transform healthcare,” said Dr Noura Khamis Al Ghaithi, Undersecretary of DoH.
“Our focus now is on translating these opportunities into meaningful partnerships that deliver tangible better health outcomes for communities in Abu Dhabi, China and around the world.”
Next-gen therapies
Precision oncology was a particular focus, with discussions examining how molecular diagnostics, imaging, genomics and AI could support earlier cancer detection and more personalised treatment. Researchers also explored the potential for new technologies to improve treatment selection and monitor patients for signs of cancer recurrence.
The delegation met biotechnology and pharmaceutical companies to examine opportunities in advanced cell therapies, biologics and drug discovery. Discussions included organoid-based research, which uses miniature laboratory-grown models of human tissues to investigate disease and assess potential treatments.
Abu Dhabi’s clinical research infrastructure and diverse patient population could provide opportunities to evaluate emerging therapies across different populations, helping researchers establish their effectiveness and safety before wider clinical adoption.
The mission also examined developments in AI-enabled hospitals, surgical robotics, laboratory automation and brain-computer interfaces. Potential collaborations could involve clinical trials, specialist training and the evaluation of technologies within Abu Dhabi’s healthcare facilities.
Genomics and population health
Another area of interest was the use of large-scale genomic and biological data to improve understanding of diseases affecting local populations. By combining Abu Dhabi’s existing genomics and biobanking capabilities with Chinese expertise in AI and advanced biological research, scientists could identify disease risks earlier and develop more targeted diagnostic and treatment approaches.
The work could be particularly relevant to rare diseases, where access to comprehensive genetic information may help shorten the time required to establish a diagnosis.
The delegation included representatives from Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi, PureHealth, Abu Dhabi Investment Office, Mohamed bin Zayed University of Artificial Intelligence and L’IMAD.
Discussions will continue during the Abu Dhabi Future Health Summit, taking place from 20–22 October, with 24 Chinese organisations invited to participate.
The summit will provide an opportunity to develop the initial discussions into research, clinical and investment partnerships, with an emphasis on translating scientific discoveries into technologies and treatments that can be evaluated and introduced into patient care.
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