UAE pharmaceutical security is gaining attention as the Federal National Council approved key recommendations to improve the medicine sector. The council urged reducing drug prices, publishing banned medicines online, and ensuring long-term pharmaceutical preparedness. They also highlighted the importance of improving access to medicines, supporting local production, and increasing the sector’s impact on public health. These measures aim to make medicine supply more secure, efficient, and transparent.
During the council session, members reviewed policies on pharmaceutical and medical supplies. They emphasized sustainability, domestic production, and strong regulatory frameworks. The council recommended stockpiling active pharmaceutical ingredients for at least five years and forming long-term partnerships with China, India, and Brazil. It also urged domestic factories to focus on innovative biologic medicines and gradually transfer advanced production technology to the UAE.
To promote national medicines, the council called on insurance companies to cover local products and prioritize them in government tenders. Prescribing by generic names instead of trade names could increase local medicine use. Members also suggested public awareness campaigns to highlight UAE-made medicine quality and safety. Additionally, they proposed creating specialized institutes and training programs to attract Emirati talent. Scholarships, financial incentives, and partnerships between universities and the pharmaceutical industry could strengthen research capabilities.
The council stressed transparency and innovation in healthcare. They recommended building unified national data platforms to monitor medicine supply, track disruptions, and guide government planning. They also encouraged coordination with global pharmaceutical companies to lower drug prices, particularly for innovative products. Introducing certification systems for pharmacies and online platforms could prevent unsafe purchases. Fast-track approvals for locally made generics and regulatory alignment with the FDA and EMA would help UAE-made medicines enter global markets faster. Incentives such as tax exemptions, land support, and R&D funding could attract investment.
Finally, the council urged clearer regulations for herbal products and traditional remedies while enforcing quality standards across the sector. By combining affordability, transparency, local production, and innovation, UAE pharmaceutical security can improve public trust, raise healthcare standards, and position the country as a regional hub for medicines.
