Genomics and the future of healthcare in the Middle East

As the global healthcare landscape continues to evolve, the Middle East, particularly the UAE, is rapidly positioning itself at the forefront of biomedical innovation. One of the most transformative developments in this space is genomics, which is reshaping how we understand, prevent and treat disease. The region’s commitment to advancing healthcare through technology and research is increasingly evident, and this is reflected not only in national investment strategies but also in regulatory reforms and landmark events such as Arab Health, which continues to spotlight cutting-edge developments, including in the field of precision medicine and genomics.

As we prepare to host a healthcare-focused event later this month featuring leading experts and stakeholders in the field, we share some insights on how genomics is impacting healthcare investment and legal frameworks across the region.  We stand ready to support clients navigating this complex but promising frontier.

The regulatory landscape: building the foundations for genomic medicine

The UAE has taken major steps in recent years to regulate and support genomic research and personalised medicine. Key recent legislative developments include:

• Federal Law by Decree No. (8) of 2021 on access to genetic resources and their derivatives and fair and equitable sharing of benefits originating from their utilisation, which sets out a comprehensive legal framework aimed at managing genetic data and resources in the UAE.

• Federal Law by Decree No. (49) of 2023 on regulating the use of the human genome, which ensures the safe and ethical use of the human genome for various purposes, such as health, research and legal matters.

• Dubai Health Authority (DHA) and Department of Health – Abu Dhabi (DoH) Frameworks that govern data protection, AI in healthcare and biotechnology initiatives, especially in relation to emerging tech and innovation.

These regulations reflect an increasing awareness of the need for robust legal frameworks that not only protect patient data but also facilitate investment in life sciences. They also align with international standards such as GDPR and OECD guidance, further strengthening the UAE's positioning as a global healthcare hub.

Innovations and milestones: from research to real-world impact

The past few years have seen groundbreaking developments in genomics across the region. The UAE Genomics Council, launched in 2021, has been spearheading national efforts to integrate genomic data into the healthcare system, aiming to build the world’s most comprehensive population genome database. This is not only a scientific milestone but also a strategic asset for healthcare planning, pharmaceutical development and disease prevention.

Private and public partnerships are driving rapid adoption. For instance, partnerships between the Abu Dhabi-based G42 Healthcare and global biotech firms have led to the creation of advanced genomic sequencing platforms in the region. Dubai’s hosting of events such Arab Health showcased AI-powered diagnostic tools and national genomic screening programs that are already producing measurable results in early detection and population health.

Market opportunities and emerging trends

The genomics sector in the Middle East presents several compelling opportunities:

• Personalised medicine: The ability to tailor treatments based on an individual’s genetic profile is unlocking new avenues for pharmaceutical companies and healthcare providers.

• Biotech R&D investment: Governments and sovereign funds are increasing funding into startups and scaleups focused on gene therapy, AI-driven diagnostics and digital health platforms.

• Cross-border collaboration: Initiatives that connect Gulf states with international research institutions are fostering knowledge exchange and facilitating clinical trials in the region.

• Data commercialisation: Genomic data, when handled appropriately under privacy regulations, offers substantial value for pharmaceutical development and public health initiatives.

For international investors and healthcare providers looking to enter or expand within this space, the Middle East, and particularly the UAE, offers a highly favourable environment backed by infrastructure, government support and a growing talent pool.

Legal complexities

While the opportunities in AI-driven genomics are significant, the legal landscape in the Middle East is still evolving to keep pace with scientific innovation. 

One of the most pressing challenges relates to data sovereignty and localisation, particularly where genomic data is stored or processed outside the originating country. In several GCC jurisdictions, health and genetic data are now classified as sensitive personal data, triggering restrictions on cross-border transfers unless specific regulatory exemptions are met, yet many public-private partnerships still need to adapt to such standards. We have seen this tension play out in structuring clinical trials involving international pharma sponsors and local hospitals, where conflicting requirements on data access, consent forms and ethical approvals may create deal challenges. 

Another emerging area is IP ownership in AI-generated outcomes, particularly where algorithms process genomic datasets to produce diagnostic models or therapeutic targets. Clients increasingly seek clarity around whether IP vests in the algorithm developer, the data contributor, or the party funding the research, a question not fully resolved in local IP regimes.

Lastly, the rollout of federal laws governing access to genetic resources, such as UAE Federal Law by Decree No. 8 of 2021, introduced benefit-sharing obligations that will need to be factored into licensing and commercialisation strategies. For investors, biotech firms and research institutions alike, navigating this shifting legal matrix requires not just regulatory awareness but practical structuring to avoid future enforceability risks.

Clyde & Co: your legal partner in genomic and healthcare innovation

As genomics continues to redefine the boundaries of healthcare, the Middle East stands out as a dynamic and promising region for investment, innovation and public-private collaboration. With a strong regulatory foundation, robust investment in infrastructure and increasing regional cooperation, the future of precision medicine in the UAE looks bright.

At Clyde & Co, we are proud to be at the cutting edge of these changes. With a long-standing presence in the UAE and deep sectoral expertise, Clyde & Co is uniquely positioned to support clients operating in the healthcare and life sciences ecosystem. Our team advises on a full spectrum of matters including:

-    Regulatory compliance and licensing under UAE and GCC healthcare laws
-    Data privacy, cybersecurity and genetic data governance
-    Structuring joint ventures and investment in biotech ventures
-    Supporting M&A activity and market entry in health tech

Our work at the intersection of law, technology and healthcare gives us a front-row view of the rapid evolution underway and the legal tools necessary to keep pace with it.

For more information or to discuss how we can support your healthcare and life sciences initiatives, please contact Roshanak Bassiri Gharb, Julia Ofer and Sinan Amso.