H.H. Sheikh Hamdan approves strategy for Dubai Longevity Authority

His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence, approved the strategy and operating budget of the Dubai Longevity Authority on Sunday.

The approval followed the Authority's inaugural board meeting and moves it from its establishment phase towards implementing regulations and programmes covering longevity, wellness and advanced health.

The Dubai Longevity Authority was established in June as a dedicated regulator for the sector, with a focus on increasing the number of years people live in good health, known as healthspan.

Its remit covers areas including research and clinical trials, manufacturing and the commercialisation of health and longevity products and services.

The Authority is also developing a licensing framework and minimum standards for companies operating in the sector, alongside rules governing enforcement.

One of its first programmes will provide a controlled environment in which selected companies and innovators can test new technologies and health solutions under regulatory supervision before potentially expanding them more widely.

Sheikh Hamdan said Dubai aims to build an ecosystem bringing together scientific research, investment, talent and regulation. "We aim to create an ecosystem that brings together innovation, talent, investment, and regulation to foster new scientific discoveries and translate them into solutions that help people live longer and in better health," he said.

The Authority will also work with government entities and federal authorities on areas including investment, data, intellectual property and infrastructure.

It was established under a law issued earlier this year under the directives of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai.