The Department of Health – Abu Dhabi (DoH) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Merck to advance fertility and reproductive medicine through professional education, scientific exchange, research and innovation.
Announced during the Abu Dhabi Future Health Summit 2026, the partnership aims to strengthen specialist capabilities, expand professional development opportunities and support improvements in fertility care across the UAE and wider region.
A key initiative is the proposed development of a Fertility and IVF Centre of Excellence and Academy in the UAE. The initiative will focus on clinical training, workforce development, knowledge transfer and the exchange of best practices. The collaboration will also support clinician fellowships and professional development opportunities for Emirati healthcare professionals.
Click here to join our WhatsApp channel here
The agreement includes cooperation on the Abu Dhabi Global Fertility and IVF Scientific Annual Meeting, which will bring together clinicians, researchers, academic institutions and industry representatives to share scientific knowledge and explore advances in reproductive medicine.
DoH and Merck will also explore research opportunities involving artificial intelligence and other emerging technologies to encourage scientific discovery and support responsible innovation in healthcare.
H.E. Dr. Khuloud Al-Dhalei, Executive Director of the Healthcare Quality sector at DoH said: “Quality fertility care depends on specialist expertise and the ability to apply scientific evidence to each individual’s needs. Abu Dhabi is bringing together healthcare providers, researchers and industry partners to strengthen these capabilities and support consistent standards of care. Through our collaboration with Merck, we aim to develop Emirati clinical expertise and create more opportunities for professional learning and scientific exchange. This work supports our wider ambition to help individuals and families make informed reproductive choices and receive care suited to their needs.”
Also read: Abu Dhabi Hospital Ranks Among World’s Best for Oncology in 2027
Ahmed Fadl, General Manager – UAE & Gulf, Merck Healthcare said: “The future of fertility care will be shaped by how effectively we translate scientific advances into progress in reproductive medicine. Achieving this requires continued advancement of scientific knowledge, collaboration across disciplines and a strong connection between research and clinical practice. Through our collaboration with the Department of Health – Abu Dhabi, we aim to bring our global expertise in fertility and reproductive medicine to the table, while supporting opportunities for scientific exchange, research and innovation that can help advance the field and ultimately benefit patients.”
The partnership forms part of Abu Dhabi’s wider efforts to strengthen reproductive health services, advance research and improve access to specialised fertility care for individuals and families.
