From a $392 million oncology drug market to locally manufactured cancer therapies, Dubai's first integrated cancer hospital, and a $200 million precision oncology commitment — the UAE is rewriting its cancer care playbook in 2026. Here's what it means for patients, pharma, and the region.
The State of Oncology in the UAE: What 2026's Milestones Mean for Cancer Care
By Ivona Gunjova
Category: Healthcare
Frequently Asked Questions
How big is the UAE oncology drug market?
The UAE oncology drugs market is projected to reach US$392 million in 2025 and grow to US$560 million by 2030, at a compound annual growth rate of 7.41%. The broader GCC precision oncology market is valued at $1.5 billion.
What oncology drugs are manufactured locally in the UAE?
Mubadala Bio launched three locally manufactured oncology drugs in late 2025: Lenalidomide for myeloma, Pomalidomide (first local production) for multiple myeloma, and Sunitinib for advanced cancers. These are produced at the Bioventure Healthcare high-potency facility.
When is Dubai's first cancer hospital opening?
The Hamdan Bin Rashid Cancer Hospital, Dubai's first integrated comprehensive cancer facility, is set to open in 2026. It will provide end-to-end cancer care including screening, diagnosis, surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and palliative care under one roof.
What is the UAE investing in precision oncology?
The UAE government has committed $200 million towards precision oncology research, including expanding access to next-generation sequencing, companion diagnostics, and biomarker-driven treatment selection. This is part of the broader National Cancer Control Plan emphasizing genomic research.
How long does it take for new oncology drugs to reach the UAE market?
The median time from global oncology drug launch to UAE registration is approximately 23 months, with reimbursement decisions adding an average of 6 additional months. This is competitive by regional Middle Eastern standards but still represents a significant lag behind initial global availability.