The Abu Dhabi Public Health Centre (ADPHC) has entered into a two-year Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Gilead Sciences Ireland to improve disease prevention, early detection, and public awareness in crucial health sectors within the Abu Dhabi Emirate. This partnership will concentrate on blood-borne viruses, specifically hepatitis B (HBV), hepatitis C (HCV), and HIV.

The MoU creates a collaborative framework between ADPHC and Gilead Sciences based on two main pillars: disease awareness and education campaigns, as well as screening and early detection and diagnosis. The agreement was signed by Dr. Faisal Al Ahbabi, Acting Executive Director of the Communicable Diseases Sector at the Abu Dhabi Public Health Centre, and Vitor Papao, General Manager of Gilead Sciences, during the 25th IUHPE World Conference on Health Promotion, which is taking place from May 13 to 16, 2025, at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre (ADNEC).

H.E. Dr. Rashid Al Suwaidi, Director General of the Abu Dhabi Public Health Centre, remarked that this MoU represents a strategic advancement in addressing public health challenges. He emphasized that by partnering with Gilead Sciences, they aim to strengthen efforts in disease awareness, early screening, and empowering both the public and healthcare providers. The goal is to cultivate a healthier and more informed population in Abu Dhabi.

Vitor Papao, General Manager of Gilead Sciences, noted that the organization believes in the transformative power of partnerships in public health. He expressed pride in collaborating with ADPHC to provide innovative, evidence-based solutions for pressing health issues, highlighting the commitment to enhancing lives through education and early intervention.

Key initiatives outlined in the MoU include the joint development of public awareness campaigns utilizing both digital and traditional platforms, promoting proactive screening among high-risk groups, and aligning local practices with global care standards. Additionally, both parties will investigate digital solutions to improve patient tracking and enhance referral and follow-up processes.

ADPHC, as the government authority responsible for advancing public health in Abu Dhabi, is focused on elevating the overall health of the population through comprehensive prevention, screening, and intervention systems. In 2024, the Centre published its Public Health System Strengthening Report (PHSSR), which underscored the importance of addressing non-communicable diseases and improving early detection via proactive strategies.

Gilead Sciences contributes extensive global experience to this collaboration, operating in over 35 countries with a strong history in disease prevention and therapeutic innovation. Through this MoU, Gilead Sciences aims to utilize its international expertise and local presence to help Abu Dhabi achieve its objectives of enhancing healthcare awareness, optimizing screening protocols, and improving care connections throughout the health system.

The Abu Dhabi Public Health Centre (ADPHC), established in 2019 under the Department of Health – Abu Dhabi, serves as the emirate’s dedicated authority for public and preventive health. As the first of its kind in the region, ADPHC leads initiatives to safeguard and promote community well-being through evidence-based programs that address communicable and non-communicable diseases, as well as occupational and environmental health, and emergency preparedness. ADPHC is committed to fostering a healthier and safer society, aligned with Abu Dhabi’s vision for sustainable and proactive healthcare.