The Department of Health – Abu Dhabi (DoH), the regulator of the healthcare sector in the Emirate, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Eli Lilly Suisse SA, a global pharmaceutical company, and the World Obesity Federation (WOF), a global non-profit organisation.

The collaboration aims to address priority global healthcare challenges and drive innovative solutions on obesity prevention and management, that will resonate in the Emirate and beyond.  

Leveraging the parties' diverse expertise, Abu Dhabi will spearhead a multisectoral initiative to bridge the gaps that have hindered efforts to reduce obesity for many years. This collaboration will focus on empowering healthcare professionals with the skills to effectively manage obesity, generate evidence on economic burden of obesity, drive innovation in prevention and treatment solutions, and raise public awareness about managing obesity.

Dr Noura Al Ghaithi, Undersecretary of the Department of Health – Abu Dhabi (DoH) stated, "At the Department of Health – Abu Dhabi (DoH) we are spearheading a new era of proactive health by tackling obesity at its root. The population's health and longevity remain at the forefront of our priorities, and through our strategic collaboration with Eli Lilly Suisse S.A and the World Obesity Federation (WOF), we aim to empower healthcare professionals, drive innovation in prevention strategies, and foster a culture of health awareness in line with the  United Arab Emirates (UAE) national strategies. Together, we will build and secure a healthier and vibrant future for generations to come, thus reinforcing Abu Dhabi's position as a leading destination for healthcare."