UAE to host first Neuralink brain chip trials outside the U.S.

The UAE is set to host the first clinical trials outside the United States for Neuralink, Elon Musk’s brain-chip company, in a major step forward for neuroscience and life sciences in the region.

The announcement was made by the Department of Health – Abu Dhabi, which is partnering with Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi and Neuralink to launch the clinical programme, UAE-PRIME.

“This marks a pivotal moment for the advancement of life sciences in the UAE,” said Mansoor Ibrahim Al Mansoori, chairman of the Department. “In collaboration with Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi, we are proud to responsibly advance brain-computer interface (BCI) technology and bring hope to people living with severe neurological conditions.”

Elon Musk confirmed the partnership in a tweet, writing: “Neuralink is partnering with UAE and Cleveland Clinic!”

What does Neuralink’s brain chip do?

Neuralink’s implant — about the size of a one-dirham coin — is designed to help quadriplegic patients regain digital control by allowing them to use their thoughts to operate computers and mobile devices.

The chip is surgically inserted into the brain using a robotic system capable of placing over 1,000 ultra-thin electrodes with greater precision than a human hand.

So far, three patients have received the implant. The company’s ultimate goal is to restore functions such as speech, motor skills, and even vision, while eventually expanding into non-medical applications.

The UAE’s entry into the brain-tech frontier reflects its growing push into advanced health and life sciences, aligning with the goals of the Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan.

“Abu Dhabi is committed to accelerating medical innovation that is ethically governed, globally accessible, and purpose-driven,” Mr. Al Mansoori added.

Who else is in the race?

While Neuralink is grabbing headlines, Apple is also in the game, backing Synchron, a U.S.-based company developing a less invasive BCI device known as the Stentrode.

Inserted into a vein near the brain, the device reads brain signals and translates them into digital actions, allowing users to control Apple devices. Ten patients have been implanted with the Synchron device since trials began in 2019.