Abu Dhabi is set to enhance its position in digital health and artificial intelligence with the establishment of a new Innovation Hub. This initiative is the result of a significant partnership between Abu Dhabi Health Data Services (ADHDS), Silicon Valley’s SRI International, and private equity firm VantageBridge Partners.

The Innovation Hub was announced during Abu Dhabi Global Health Week and aims to position the Emirate as a global center for AI-driven healthcare innovation. It will support startups, accelerate research, and provide a platform for commercializing advanced technologies across the Middle East, Turkey, and Africa (META) region.

SRI International, a leader in research and development known for innovations like Siri, will allocate specialized AI and healthcare resources to the initiative. Meanwhile, VantageBridge will manage commercialization and investment efforts from its location in Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM).

H.E. Mansoor Al Mansoori, Chairman of the Department of Health – Abu Dhabi, emphasized the partnership’s commitment to creating a world-class healthcare ecosystem driven by innovation and global collaboration. He noted that the Innovation Hub will play a crucial role in advancing research and attracting top talent, ultimately leading to transformative health solutions.

The agreement was signed by Kareem Shahin, CEO of M42’s Digital Health Solutions platform; Peter Marcotullio, SRI’s Senior Vice President of Commercialisation; and Alain Baron, Founder and CEO of VantageBridge Partners, in the presence of senior health and industry leaders.

By integrating ADHDS’s advanced healthcare data infrastructure with SRI’s research expertise and VantageBridge’s investment capabilities, the hub is expected to foster global breakthroughs and strengthen Abu Dhabi’s leadership in life sciences and digital health.

Marcotullio expressed enthusiasm about the partnership, stating, “Together, we have a unique opportunity to redefine the global healthcare landscape through AI-powered solutions.”

This initiative aligns with Abu Dhabi’s vision to become a premier destination for health innovation and economic diversification, enhancing its reputation in the global healthcare arena. Shahin remarked that this collaboration marks a significant step towards building a future-ready healthcare ecosystem in the region.

Baron of VantageBridge added that fostering investment opportunities and accelerating research would not only tackle critical healthcare challenges but also create a lasting legacy of technological progress, economic growth, and improved wellbeing throughout the region.