Abu Dhabi DoH, WEF team up to advance global health systems through digital transformation & AI

In a move to revolutionize global healthcare, the Department of Health - Abu Dhabi (DoH) has teamed up with the World Economic Forum (WEF) to harness the power of digital transformation and artificial intelligence. The partnership, formalized during the 2025 World Economic Forum Annual Meeting, is set to pave the way for intelligent health systems worldwide. H.H. Sheikha Latifa bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, a prominent figure in cultural and strategic initiatives, witnessed the signing, underscoring the collaboration's significance.

"In Abu Dhabi, we've established a world-leading intelligent health system," noted Mansoor Ibrahim Al Mansoori, Chairman of DoH. "This transformative approach allows us to predict and act on our population's changing health needs."

How will it work?

At its core, this partnership taps into WEF's Digital Healthcare Transformation (DHT) Initiative, a program designed to reimagine healthcare through digital technology, robust data use, and AI innovations. Abu Dhabi's DoH, a pioneer in intelligent health systems, will join the DHT Activator Network to propel these advancements globally.

Abu Dhabi brings a wealth of experience and infrastructure to the table. From its state-of-the-art genomic programs like the Emirati Genome Project to its AI-driven predictive models, the region exemplifies how technology can shift healthcare from being reactive to proactive. This collaboration will spotlight practical use cases and innovative solutions, such as tackling cardiometabolic diseases through systemic interventions and leveraging data to personalize care.

Why does it matter?

Healthcare systems worldwide often grapple with outdated tech, fragmented data, and siloed operations. Abu Dhabi's approach offers a much-needed blueprint for change. By sharing its expertise in building comprehensive health datasets and implementing advanced digital tools, the DoH aims to empower nations to address these challenges head-on.

The stakes couldn't be higher. Diseases like obesity are surging globally, straining health systems and budgets. Through systemic changes — like promoting better nutrition and encouraging physical activity — and using AI to enhance prevention and care, this initiative promises holistic solutions.

As Mansoor Ibrahim Al Mansoori aptly put it, "This transformative approach has not yet been fully adopted by other nations."

The context

This groundbreaking agreement unfolded against the vibrant backdrop of the 2025 World Economic Forum Annual Meeting. The event brought together global leaders, including Mohammed Abdullah Al Gergawi, Minister of Cabinet Affairs, and Børge Brende, President and CEO of WEF, emphasizing the collaborative spirit needed to tackle pressing global health issues.

Abu Dhabi's role as a forerunner in digital healthcare reflects a broader shift in global health priorities. As nations look to the future, the emphasis is increasingly on prediction and prevention. From genomic innovations to AI-powered health interventions, the partnership between DoH and WEF represents a pivotal step toward a healthier, longer-living global population.