Abu Dhabi is planning to construct an advanced cancer treatment center, which will be the first of its kind in the Middle East. This initiative is part of a multibillion-dollar effort to diversify the emirate’s economy and enhance its healthcare sector. The facility will be developed through a partnership between M42’s Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi and Toshiba Energy Systems & Solutions Corp.

Construction of the heavy-ion therapy center is expected to commence next year. This type of treatment is quite rare, with only 15 centers worldwide offering it, and none located within a five-hour flight from Abu Dhabi. Heavy-ion radiotherapy works by accelerating carbon ions to approximately 70% of the speed of light, creating heavy particle beams that specifically target tumors. This method is designed to minimize damage to surrounding healthy cells, which can lead to a reduced recovery time for patients.

M42, which was established in 2023, is supported by G42, a prominent artificial intelligence firm in Abu Dhabi, along with the $330 billion wealth fund Mubadala Investment Co. Since its inception, M42 has pursued several strategic acquisitions, including the purchase of the European dialysis clinic chain Diaverum, aiming to become one of the largest healthcare entities in the region.

According to Chief Executive Officer Hasan Jasem Al Nowais, M42 is actively exploring numerous potential deals to create a leading AI-powered healthcare organization. The firm has partnered with Illumina Inc., a gene sequencing company, to integrate AI into diagnostic processes.

M42 is also responsible for managing data from the Emirati Genome Programme, which seeks to map the health records of the local population to improve chronic illness prevention and treatment. This project underscores the importance of healthcare in Abu Dhabi’s broader economic diversification strategy. Earlier this year, PureHealth Holding PJSC, another key player in the sector, acquired a majority stake in a Greek hospital chain from CVC Capital Partners, valuing the deal at about $2.3 billion.