UAE’s Domestic Medicine Production Sees Significant Growth, Set to Expand Further

The UAE’s pharmaceutical manufacturing sector has witnessed rapid growth over the past five years, with more than 35 factories now operational across the country. Industry experts predict a 40% expansion in local production in the coming year, promising more affordable medicines and reduced reliance on imports.

“This growth will lead to reduced import dependence, enhanced price stability, competitive pricing, and easier access to specialized medicines,” said Dr. Mona Al Moussli, co-founder and managing director of PRA Consultancy. However, she cautioned that affordability would also depend on initial investment costs, regulatory frameworks, and market competition.

Pandemic-Era Push and Milestones

The Covid-19 pandemic acted as a catalyst for the sector’s expansion, with the UAE achieving a significant milestone through the production of Hayat-Vax, the first Covid-19 vaccine manufactured in the Arab region. “The UAE maintained medicine registration, market access, and regulatory operations during the pandemic, gaining global recognition for its efforts,” Dr. Al Moussli explained.

Role of Technology and AI

The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) into healthcare is further bolstering the sector. Dr. Al Moussli highlighted the UAE’s use of advanced AI systems in healthcare services, which are now being extended to local pharmaceutical production. “The country continues to provide smart services with AI solutions, and the next step is implementing these in medicinal manufacturing,” she said.

Government Support Driving Expansion

With more factories under development, the government has played a pivotal role in fostering growth by opening free-zone facilities like Kizad and Jebel Ali Free Zone. Swiss pharmaceutical company Acino Pharma recently established new facilities in the UAE, exemplifying the sector’s attractiveness to international investors.

“The government is opening up the sector and providing substantial support and incentives for investors to establish local manufacturing businesses,” said Dr. Al Moussli.

Meeting Regional Health Needs

Dr. Mariam Galadari, board advisor at Globalpharma and former head of the UAE Ministry of Health’s Pharmacy Division, emphasized how local production is improving accessibility and affordability while maintaining high-quality standards. Globalpharma, for instance, produces treatments for hypertension, diabetes, flu, and more, offering medications in various forms such as tablets, injections, and eye drops.

Dr. Galadari also noted that increased local production allows manufacturers to allocate resources more efficiently to meet government tenders and ensure affordable medicines. “We have supplied hyperlipidemia treatments, antihypertensive medications, antibiotics, and antiallergic medicines to local tenders, ensuring availability at competitive prices,” she added.

Future Outlook

With a focus on advanced technologies, government incentives, and a growing number of factories, the UAE’s pharmaceutical manufacturing sector is poised for continued expansion. Experts agree this growth will not only strengthen the local industry but also enhance regional health outcomes by ensuring affordability and accessibility.