Abu Dhabi, UAE– In a landmark step towards enhancing global health security and accessibility, Abu Dhabi has inaugurated a state-of-the-art regional vaccine distribution hub. Designed to improve vaccine delivery efficiency across regional markets, the hub is poised to play a vital role in strengthening international supply chains and ensuring life-saving immunisation reaches populations in need faster and more reliably.
The new hub was officially opened during the 2025 edition of Abu Dhabi Global Health Week (ADGHW)—a premier event bringing together healthcare leaders, policymakers, and innovators from around the world. The inauguration was witnessed by Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Executive Council, underlining the significance the UAE leadership places on healthcare resilience and preparedness.
This initiative follows a strategic Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed between the Department of Health – Abu Dhabi (DoH) and GSK, one of the world’s leading biopharma companies. The agreement focuses on enhancing vaccine development, accelerating research and innovation, and establishing a robust network of specialised centres that support global vaccine distribution efforts.
A Vision for Health Equity and Resilience
In his remarks during the launch, Sheikh Khaled emphasized the importance of forging strategic global partnerships to address pressing public health challenges. He pointed out that improving vaccine access and investing in resilient healthcare infrastructure is crucial to not only managing future pandemics but also ensuring equitable healthcare access across communities.
“The establishment of this hub reflects our dedication to building a more inclusive, robust, and responsive healthcare system—not just for the UAE, but for the world,” Sheikh Khaled said. “Strategic collaborations like these are essential in reinforcing public health frameworks, driving scientific progress, and ultimately saving lives.”
Sheikh Khaled also applauded the efforts made to create a network of specialised centres capable of supporting both local and international immunisation initiatives. These centres will serve as vital components in delivering timely responses during health emergencies and routine immunisation programmes alike.
A Key Milestone for the UAE’s Healthcare System
Mansoor Ibrahim Al Mansoori, Chairman of the Department of Health – Abu Dhabi, underscored the critical importance of the newly launched hub, describing it as more than just an infrastructure project.
“This hub is more than a logistics achievement—it is a cornerstone of a resilient, future-ready health system,” he said. “By enabling faster access to life-saving vaccines, we are reinforcing the UAE’s commitment to leading the charge in global health innovation and emergency preparedness.”
The facility will also contribute to streamlining vaccine production, cold-chain logistics, and distribution pathways, ensuring that vaccines reach their destinations in optimal condition and without delays.
Public-Private Collaboration at Its Best
Sir Jonathan Symonds, Chairman of the Board at GSK, highlighted the importance of international cooperation in advancing public health goals. He noted that the partnership between GSK and DoH – Abu Dhabi is an example of how public and private sectors can collaborate effectively to tackle global health challenges.
“This collaboration underscores our commitment to protecting communities and building a healthier future,” said Symonds. “By working together, we can enhance regional health resilience and make a meaningful impact in people’s lives.”
A Model for the Region and Beyond
The launch of the regional vaccine distribution hub is a testament to Abu Dhabi’s growing reputation as a global healthcare innovation hub. The initiative reinforces the UAE’s proactive stance in tackling global health issues and offers a replicable model for other nations looking to strengthen their healthcare systems.
As the world continues to recover from the impact of recent pandemics and prepares for potential future threats, the hub stands as a symbol of innovation, collaboration, and hope—a future where life-saving vaccines are accessible to all, regardless of location.
