Abu Dhabi:The Department of Health - Abu Dhabi (DoH) has entered into a significant partnership with Merck, a leading company in science and technology, by signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at advancing fertility and reproductive medicine. This collaboration, formalized during the Abu Dhabi Future Health Summit 2026, focuses on professional education, scientific exchange, research, and innovation in the healthcare sector.
According to Wam, the agreement involves DoH's healthcare leadership joining forces with Merck's global expertise to bolster specialist capabilities and foster professional development opportunities. The collaboration will also support the establishment of a Fertility and IVF Centre of Excellence and Academy in the UAE, which will prioritize capability building, professional education, and scientific training.
The MoU was signed in the presence of key figures including Dr. Noura Al Ghaithi, Undersecretary of the Department of Health - Abu Dhabi, and representatives from Merck. A notable component of the partnership is the emphasis on clinician fellowships and professional development opportunities for Emirati clinicians, which aims to enhance local expertise in fertility care.
Dr. Khuloud Al-Dhalei, Executive Director of the Healthcare Quality sector at DoH, emphasized the importance of specialist expertise in providing quality fertility care. Ahmed Fadl, General Manager - UAE and Gulf for Merck Healthcare, highlighted the significance of translating scientific advances into progress in reproductive medicine through collaboration.
The partnership also includes the Abu Dhabi Global Fertility and IVF Scientific Annual Meeting, which will convene healthcare professionals and researchers to exchange scientific knowledge and strengthen international collaboration. Additionally, the collaboration will explore research opportunities involving artificial intelligence and emerging technologies.
This initiative aligns with the Abu Dhabi Reproductive Health Programme and DoH's Fertility Strategy, reinforcing the Emirate's commitment to advancing reproductive healthcare through professional education and innovation.