Abu Dhabi DoH, Boehringer Ingelheim ink strategic partnership

Abu Dhabi just doubled down on its ambition to become the region's beating heart of health innovation. In the latest move, the Department of Health - Abu Dhabi (DoH) inked a strategic partnership with global pharma heavyweight Boehringer Ingelheim. The goal? To supercharge scientific research, back bold ideas, and fast-track breakthrough discoveries — right from the emirate's own backyard.

Standing side by side at the BIO International Convention in Boston, Dr. Asma Al Mannaei of DoH and Ghaleb Al Ahdab of Boehringer Ingelheim sealed the deal, with key figures like Dr. Noura Al Ghaithi and Ousama Alhaj looking on. This wasn't just a handshake — it was a signal to the world: Abu Dhabi is open for innovation.

How does it work?

At the core of this alliance lies OpnME, Boehringer Ingelheim's open innovation portal. It's not just a database — it's a springboard for researchers and scientists to leap into uncharted territory.

Here's what OpnME brings to the table:

• Molecule to Order (M2O): Grab top-tier compounds and start testing.
• Molecule for Collaboration (M4C): Work hand-in-hand with Boehringer scientists on live projects.
• opn2EXPERTS (o2e): Pose tough questions, get insights from world-class minds.
• opnTALENTS (o25): Nurture the next wave of talent and research leaders.

Put simply, OpnME opens doors. Researchers across Abu Dhabi now have direct access to a toolkit once reserved for elite pharma labs. From rare molecules to expert guidance, it's all within reach — no red tape, no gatekeeping.

Dr. Asma Al Mannaei put it plainly: "We're empowering Abu Dhabi researchers with the OpnME platform... This is about transforming our emirate into a global life sciences hub, speeding up breakthroughs, and building a healthier, resilient future for all."

Why does it matter?

Because great ideas shouldn't be locked behind corporate doors.

This partnership isn't just about access — it's about acceleration. By giving local researchers the tools and support they need, the DoH is clearing a fast lane for discovery. And in a world facing mounting health crises — from pandemics to chronic diseases — time matters.

• It bolsters Abu Dhabi's status as a scientific powerhouse.
• It fosters a thriving R&D environment right in the region.
• It arms emerging scientists with the means to compete on the global stage.

For Boehringer Ingelheim, it's about nurturing the next generation. Ousama Alhaj summed it up: "This collaboration supports research, innovation, and the next generation of researchers in the region."

The context

Abu Dhabi's push into life sciences isn't new — but this move turns up the heat.

Over the last few years, the emirate has been steadily carving out its spot as a life sciences leader in the MENA region. With a booming infrastructure, government backing, and growing talent pool, Abu Dhabi is ripe for innovation.

Now, with Boehringer Ingelheim in its corner, the emirate is playing in a new league. This partnership plugs local talent into global systems, closing the gap between ambition and action.

And make no mistake — this isn't a one-off. It's part of a bigger bet: that the future of health can be written in Abu Dhabi.