ADSCC and Yas Clinic first in the UAE to receive AABB accreditation for haematopoietic progenitor cell collection

Abu Dhabi Stem Cells Center (ADSCC) and Yas Clinic have become the first in the country — and only the second in the entire Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region — to receive the prestigious AABB accreditation for hematopoietic progenitor cell (HPC) collection. This recognition cements their reputation as leaders in regenerative medicine, ensuring that they meet the highest global standards in collecting, processing, and storing life-saving stem cells used in treating blood disorders and autoimmune diseases.

How does it work?

Hematopoietic progenitor cells are the foundation of blood and immune system regeneration. These stem cells are harvested from donors through a meticulous collection process, then processed and stored under strict protocols to ensure their viability and safety for transplantation. This accreditation signifies that ADSCC and Yas Clinic adhere to rigorous international standards, ensuring quality and safety at every step — from donor selection to final transplantation.

The clinics already boast a stellar reputation in cellular therapy, with multiple accreditations, including:

• FACT Accreditation (Foundation of Accreditation for Cellular Therapy) for excellence in hematopoietic stem cell transplantation.
• Department of Health Abu Dhabi Certification as a recognized Center of Excellence in regenerative medicine.

With the latest AABB accreditation, their capabilities extend even further, bolstering their Abu Dhabi Bone Marrow Transplant Program as well as their CAR-T and Mesenchymal Stem Cell programs.

Why does it matter?

This milestone isn't just about another accolade — it's about real-world impact. ADSCC and Yas Clinic are now among the select few institutions globally that meet AABB's stringent standards for cellular therapy. That means:

• Better patient outcomes: Patients undergoing stem cell transplants or regenerative treatments can trust that they are receiving care that aligns with the world's highest quality benchmarks.
• Stronger infrastructure: The clinics' cutting-edge apheresis and extracorporeal photopheresis (ECP) units, combined with an expert team of hematologists, immunologists, and technicians, ensure top-tier medical services.

And, ultimately, this accreditation reinforces the UAE's ambition to be a regional hub for advanced medical treatments and biotechnology.

As Prof. Yendry Ventura, CEO of ADSCC, put it: "Achieving AABB accreditation marks a significant milestone in our commitment to excellence in cellular therapies. As the first institution in the UAE to receive this prestigious accreditation, we continue to set new benchmarks in quality and patient safety."

The context

The field of cellular therapy is advancing rapidly, with stem cell treatments offering hope to patients suffering from conditions once deemed incurable. The UAE has been making significant investments in healthcare innovation, aligning with its national agenda to lead in medical research and advanced therapies.

By securing this accreditation, ADSCC and Yas Clinic are setting a precedent for the region and contributing to global advancements in regenerative medicine.

As Dr. Maysoon Al Karam, Chief Medical Officer at Yas Clinic, highlighted: "This achievement reflects the efforts and expertise of our entire team. Being one of only two AABB-accredited facilities in the MENA region for HPC collection is a significant milestone for both our patients and physicians."