Department of Health – Abu Dhabi and Illumina Collaborate to Extend Research in Genomics and Precision Medicine

6 Jun, 2024:

During the BIO 2024 International Convention, the Department of Health – Abu Dhabi (DoH), the regulator of the healthcare sector in the Emirate, signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Illumina, a global leader in DNA sequencing and array-based technologies. Together, the entities will jointly work to advance the application of precision medicine and clinical genomics research and to further develop the expert knowledge, infrastructure, and skilled workforce to support the embedding of genomics into clinical practice and translational research, locally and beyond.

In the presence of H.E. Mansoor Ibrahim Al Mansoori, Chairman of DoH and Mr Jacob Thaysen, Chief Executive Officer Illumina the MoU was signed by Dr Asma Ibrahim Al Mannaei, the Executive Director of the Research and Innovation Centre at DoH and Mr Steve Barnard, Chief Technology Officer Illumina.

Genomics has the potential to change the future health of humanity. From disease forecasting to diagnostics, drug discovery to personalised treatment, genomics cannot be overstated as a revolutionary force for global good. Leveraging Abu Dhabi’s wealth of genomic data, DoH and Illumina seek to accelerate innovations in genomics and precision medicine with focus on emerging genomic applications. This includes genome and multi-omics advanced analysis and interpretation to promote the development of new breakthrough diagnostics for precision medicine, and benefit patients locally and globally.

Dr Asma Ibrahim Al Mannaei, Executive Director of the Research and Innovation Centre at the at DoH said: “Genomics research, development and the practical application of its insights and treatments is a central pillar in our strategy to establish Abu Dhabi as a global life science hub. Through this new partnership with Illumina, we seek to deliver breakthroughs in personalised, predictive, and preventative programmes tailored to an individual’s genetic makeup. It is only through borderless collaboration, in pursuit of a common goal, that we can truly deliver the translational research and upskill our workforce with the tools that will future proof global public health and enable a heathier future for all.”

Mr Steve Barnard, Chief Technology Officer Illumina said: “The MOU signed today is a significant milestone in accelerating genomic innovation in the UAE through access to the latest sequencing technology, advanced genomic analysis solutions and workforce training initiatives. Illumina is pleased to be a trusted technology partner to the Department of Health with demonstrated leadership and a proven track record of genomics solutions with reliable, industry-leading training, support and services.”

Led by the Department of Health – Abu Dhabi (DoH), a high-profile Abu Dhabi delegation headed by His Excellency Mansoor Ibrahim Al Mansoori, Chairman of the DoH, is visiting the United States of America (USA) between May 30^th,2024 and June 6^th,2024 to showcase the Emirate’s partnership opportunities and explore collaboration with leading organizations in Research and Development (R&D), manufacturing and innovation. Kicking-off in Philadelphia, delegates have met with existing and new partners to foster collaboration with leading education research institutions, governmental bodies and health-tech giants. The transnational mission has culminated in San Diego, coinciding with Abu Dhabi’s participation at BIO International Convention 2024 to exhibit the Emirate’s growth and development of its biotechnology industry. The participation has witnessed in-depth discussions, shared insights and expertise as well as explored collaborations in health-tech, life science and innovation.

Highlighting the rich diversity and expertise within Abu Dhabi’s ecosystem, the Delegation comprised of 20 key entities including the Department of Health – Abu Dhabi (DoH), Abu Dhabi Investment Office (ADIO), Abu Dhabi Executive Office (ADEO), G42, Masdar City, Mubadala Investment Company, Khalifa Economic Zones Abu Dhabi Group (KEZAD), Malaffi, The Medical Office, Ambulatory Healthcare Services, PureHealth, One Health, M42, Technology Innovation Institute (TII), Burjeel Holdings, Khalifa University, Abu Dhabi Holding Company (ADQ), Abu Dhabi Stem Cell Centre (ADSCC) and Etihad Airways.