Pfizer Gulf, in collaboration with The Department of Health – Abu Dhabi (DoH), organized a specialized workshop titled “Harnessing the Power of Real World Data in Healthcare Research.” This event took place as part of a strategic Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed in 2024, which aims to enhance Abu Dhabi’s status as a global hub for healthcare innovation. The MoU emphasizes the advancement of real world data (RWD) capabilities to enable data-driven and evidence-based decision-making in healthcare.

The workshop gathered over 60 participants, including researchers, data scientists, pharmacists, and healthcare professionals from leading hospitals and academic institutions in Abu Dhabi. The attendees focused on how real-world evidence (RWE) can be used to improve research, enhance health outcomes, and promote personalized care. This event served as a vital platform for knowledge exchange and scientific dialogue, supporting Abu Dhabi’s ambition to become a center for health and life sciences.

Dr. Nadine Tarcha, Medical Director at Pfizer Gulf, pointed out the importance of partnerships in healthcare research. She stated, “At Pfizer, we believe real world data is key to generating insights that complement clinical trials and accelerate patient-centered innovation.” The collaboration with the Department of Health aims to empower local research, strengthen evidence generation, and improve access to better health outcomes.

The agenda included expert discussions on various topics, such as the utilization of RWD from national databases, the distinctions between RWE and traditional clinical trials, study design and bias, and regulatory considerations. A panel discussion featured representatives from the Department of Health, the UAE Genome Program, M42, and global Pfizer RWE leaders, focusing on how Abu Dhabi’s Trusted Research Environment can advance scientific discovery.

This workshop is part of a broader initiative under the MoU to foster long-term public-private partnerships that will enhance Abu Dhabi’s global competitiveness in biomedical research, genomics, and precision medicine. The collaborative efforts aim to advance data-driven solutions that can significantly improve health outcomes within the UAE and beyond.

About Pfizer Gulf: Pfizer applies science and global resources to provide therapies that improve lives. The company focuses on quality, safety, and value in the development of innovative medicines and vaccines. Pfizer collaborates with healthcare providers and governments to enhance access to reliable and affordable healthcare worldwide.

About the Department of Health – Abu Dhabi: The DoH is the regulatory body for the healthcare sector in Abu Dhabi, dedicated to ensuring healthcare excellence. It monitors population health and shapes the regulatory framework for the health system, enforcing standards and encouraging best practices among healthcare providers. The DoH is committed to creating a sustainable healthcare ecosystem that prioritizes health and quality of life for all community members.