The Abu Dhabi Investment Office (ADIO) and the Department of Health – Abu Dhabi (DoH), the emirate’s healthcare regulator, have formalised a strategic partnership with Hub71, the capital’s global tech ecosystem. The initiative aims to attract international venture capital (VC) and accelerate the development of HealthTech and life sciences startups within the newly established Health, Endurance, Longevity, and Medicine (HELM) cluster.
The Department of Economic Development (ADDED), together with ADIO and DoH, launched the HELM cluster to position it as a global hub for innovation in biotechnology, MedTech, and digital health. The initiative aims to contribute AED 94 billion to Abu Dhabi’s GDP and create 30,000 jobs by 2045.
Announced during Abu Dhabi Global Health Week (ADGHW), the agreement will see Hub71 utilise its extensive VC network to promote the HELM cluster through roadshows, networking events, and marketing campaigns. ADIO will support this with co-investment offerings, tailored support services, and streamlined business processes to encourage international VCs to establish a local presence.
In addition, Hub71 will connect high-potential startups with relevant investors, while DoH will facilitate regulatory support and enhance investment pathways. All entities will collaborate to improve policy and infrastructure, ensuring Abu Dhabi’s ecosystem aligns with global standards.
Dr. Noura Al Ghaithi, Under-Secretary of DoH, emphasised that the HELM cluster offers a platform for startups to scale efficiently through regulatory clarity and support. Badr Al Olama of ADIO highlighted the role of collaboration in accelerating healthcare innovation and driving economic impact. Ahmad Ali Alwan of Hub71 noted that the partnership strengthens the ecosystem by linking capital with pioneering ventures.
Abu Dhabi’s startup landscape has seen over US$1 billion in VC funding between mid-2021 and 2023. DoH has supported 80 healthcare startups since 2021, contributing to 926 jobs and 22% annual sector growth.
