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Abu Dhabi has administered its first gene-editing treatment for inherited blood disorders, marking a milestone in the country’s use of advanced genetic medicine, health authorities said.
The procedure was carried out at Yas Clinic–Khalifa City in partnership with the Abu Dhabi Stem Cells Centre and Vertex Pharmaceuticals, under the supervision of the Department of Health–Abu Dhabi, WAM reported.
The patient received CASGEVY, a therapy based on CRISPR-Cas9 technology, which edits genes to address the root cause of certain blood disorders.
CRISPR-Cas9 works by precisely targeting faulty DNA sequences linked to disease. Using a guide RNA to locate the affected gene, the Cas9 enzyme cuts the DNA at a specific site, enabling correction of the genetic defect responsible for the condition.
CASGEVY is approved for patients aged 12 and above with sickle cell disease who suffer recurrent pain crises, as well as those with transfusion-dependent beta thalassemia.
Dr. Noura Khamis Al Ghaithi, Undersecretary of the Department of Health–Abu Dhabi, said the development reflects the emirate’s strategy to integrate advanced and gene-based therapies into its healthcare system, offering patients new treatment options and improved quality of life.
Dr. Maysoon Al Karam, Chief Medical Officer at Yas Clinic, said the achievement could provide life-changing outcomes for patients and further position Abu Dhabi as a hub for advanced medical treatments and life sciences.
Hisham Hagar, Executive Country Manager at Vertex GCC, said collaboration with local healthcare partners was key to making the therapy available in the UAE, adding that the treatment offers hope to patients who previously had limited therapeutic options.
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