Sheikh Hamdan says Dubai longevity drive can improve health and deliver Dh35bn economic boost

Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed, Crown Prince of Dubai and Deputy Prime Minister, announced plans on Sunday to make Dubai a global hub for healthy longevity. This move could potentially boost the emirate's economy by more than Dh35 billion over the next decade. The Sheikh unveiled the vision for the future after chairing the inaugural meeting of the Dubai Longevity Authority, which he approved in terms of strategy and budget.

The authority was established in June to promote longer, healthier lives for people, free from chronic diseases and cognitive decline. The strategies of the authority aim to stimulate growth by around 31 percent annually, contributing significantly to Dubai's economy. Sheikh Hamdan emphasized the importance of this initiative, stating that it marks a new phase in Dubai's commitment to shaping the future of health and becoming a global center for healthy longevity.

The strategy covers various aspects of longevity, including research and development, clinical trials, manufacturing, and global markets. Experts believe that rapid advancements in longevity research will make it more common for people to live well into old age. The new authority will formulate strategies to foster advanced therapy, preventive intervention, clinical innovation, and ethical practice.

This includes establishing frameworks for safe experimentation and growth, leveraging global expertise, attracting high-potential companies, and promoting collaboration through international events. The commitment to longevity research was also echoed by Abu Dhabi's Department of Health in 2025, which announced its own set of key principles to accelerate the advancement of precision medicine and longevity science.