Essential medicines to be made in UAE

Abu Dhabi - Dubai Science Park is a hub to over 350 science, energy and environmental sector companies.

At least 60 to 80 per cent of the essential medicines consumed in the UAE can be manufactured locally, said the head of Dubai Science Park (DSP), a science-focused community hub to over 350 science, energy and environmental sector companies.
In a post-pandemic world, the UAE must look to reducing its dependence on imports for crucial commodities like food and medicines said managing director of DSP, Marwan Abdulaziz Janahi.
Since the outbreak, the Science Park has played in a crucial role in providing technology for Covid-19 testing, analysing large volumes of medical data, and procuring essential medicines to treat coronavirus patients.
"We need to make sure we have access to medicine and food that are fundamental to our lives. Communities like Dubai Science Park play a crucial role in promoting not just the manufacturing side of things, but also the research and development of these sectors,." Janahi said.
Pharmax Pharmaceuticals in DSP is home to UAE's very first state-of-the-art inhaler and nasal spray testing lab, a facility established in collaboration with India's Cipla. CEO Madhukar Tanna said irrespective of where a medicine is manufactured, facilities such as Pharmax ensures it meets the UAE quality standards before it goes out to the market.
Janahi and Tanna believe UAE can soon begin manufacturing tablets, capsules, and injectables for lifestyle diseases such as asthma, diabetes, and cholesterol.
dhanusha@khaleejtimes.com

• Dubai