Abu Dhabi’s new Health, Endurance, Longevity, and Medicine (HELM) cluster represents a major step forward in the emirate’s strategy to position itself as a global leader in healthcare and life sciences. This initiative aligns with the Abu Dhabi Vision 2030 objectives of economic diversification and building resilience against future health challenges. By 2045, the HELM cluster is projected to contribute AED94 billion ($25.6 billion) to Abu Dhabi’s GDP, attract AED42 billion in investments ($11.4 billion), and create over 30,000 specialized jobs.
In statements to the Emirates News Agency (WAM), Dr. Fatma Al Mulla, head of HELM, noted that the cluster is part of an integrated strategy led by the Abu Dhabi Investment Office (ADIO), the Department of Health – Abu Dhabi (DoH), and the Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development (ADDED).
Dr. Al Mulla also emphasized that the cluster reflects the emirate’s commitment to investing in knowledge-based sectors and attracting high-value investments. It leverages Abu Dhabi’s advanced regulatory environment and infrastructure, as well as the momentum generated from Abu Dhabi Global Healthcare Week.
Addressing global health challenges through innovation
The cluster aims to tackle global health challenges, including chronic diseases and an ageing population, by developing diagnostic technologies, accelerating clinical trials, and fostering international partnerships to deliver scalable health solutions with significant regional and global impact.
Regarding the future of life sciences, Dr. Al Mulla stated that precision medicine and genomic analytics are expected to flourish amid global demographic shifts. HELM represents a proactive investment designed to meet rising healthcare demands with sustainable, preventive solutions.
Attracting talent through development and global expertise
Moreover, in terms of talent attraction, Dr. Al Mulla mentioned that HELM will combine national skills development with the recruitment of global expertise. This will be achieved through training programs and research fellowships in collaboration with UAE University and NYU Abu Dhabi.
Dr. Al Mulla further stressed that streamlined clinical trial approvals, flexible intellectual property protections, and Abu Dhabi’s supportive business environment position HELM competitively to attract top talent and expertise from around the world.
