Mohammed bin Rashid Establishes Dubai Longevity Authority to Propel Global Health Innovation
His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, has officially enacted Law No. (17) of 2026, which establishes the Dubai Longevity Authority (DLA). This new entity is designed to position Dubai as the foremost global hub for regulated longevity, wellness, and advanced healthcare offerings, while also paving the way for investment opportunities in this burgeoning sector.
Leadership and Governance Structure
As outlined in Decree No. (14) of 2026, His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence of the UAE, will assume the role of President of the DLA. Helal Saeed Almarri, the Director General of the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET), has been appointed as the Chairman of the authority, as per Decree No. (15) of 2026.
The DLA aims to leverage cutting-edge innovation, robust governance, and strategic partnerships to support the Dubai Economic Agenda, D33, and the Dubai Social Agenda 33. These initiatives aim to position Dubai among the top three cities globally for quality of life and to enhance healthy life expectancy.
Vision for Healthcare Innovation
His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum emphasized the importance of investing in health and quality of life, stating that the true wealth of nations lies in their people. He articulated a vision for Dubai to lead in shaping the future of healthcare through advancements in life sciences, biotechnology, and medical innovation. The goal is to develop solutions that enhance quality of life and promote human health.
He further remarked that every scientific breakthrough should yield tangible benefits for people, reinforcing the notion that serving humanity remains the ultimate purpose of investments in science and innovation. The ambition is for Dubai to set new global benchmarks in health and quality of life, attracting the brightest minds across various industries to foster innovation in medicine and wellness.
Regulatory Framework and Oversight
The DLA is tasked with creating and implementing a science-driven, risk-proportionate regulatory framework for longevity-related therapies and innovations. This authority will oversee licensing and supervision across the entire value chain, including research and development, clinical trials, manufacturing, delivery, and patient clinics.
In collaboration with key government entities such as the Dubai Health Authority, Dubai Health, Dubai Municipality, and the Dubai Future Foundation, the DLA will align its operations with the highest international standards, ensuring excellence and compliance within the sector.
Economic Implications and Future Prospects
Helal Saeed Almarri highlighted the rapid growth of the Longevity, Wellness, and Advanced Health Sector, asserting that Dubai is strategically positioned to capitalize on the opportunities it presents. He noted that the establishment of the DLA will provide regulatory certainty throughout the entire value chain, from research and development to patient care.
Almarri described the initiative as a sophisticated, sovereign market for advanced therapeutic products and services, aimed at attracting investment, industrial capability, and specialized talent. This framework will facilitate the transfer of technology and business models into the economy, supporting the objectives of the Dubai Economic Agenda, D33, while also leading the way in breakthrough therapies that extend lifespan and healthspan.
Strategic Focus Areas
The DLA will develop and implement strategies to create an environment conducive to advanced therapies, preventive interventions, clinical innovations, and ethical practices. Key areas of focus will include establishing frameworks for safe experimentation and growth, attracting high-potential companies, and fostering collaboration through international events.
The authority’s initiatives are expected to drive dialogue and partnerships that will enhance the overall landscape of healthcare in Dubai and beyond.
For further details, visit the source: www.zawya.com.
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Published on 2026-06-10 19:15:00 • By the Editorial Desk
