UAE Approves Itvisma Gene Therapy
Analysis based on 6 articles · First reported Dec 20, 2025 · Last updated Dec 21, 2025
The approval of Onasemnogene abeparvovec by the United Arab Emirates — Emirates Drug Establishment positions the United Arab Emirates as a leader in pharmaceutical innovation, potentially attracting further investment in its healthcare sector. For Novartis, this approval expands its market reach for Onasemnogene abeparvovec and reinforces its standing in the neurology and rare disease treatment space, which could positively impact its stock performance.
The United Arab Emirates — Emirates Drug Establishment (EDE) has approved Onasemnogene abeparvovec (onasemnogene abeparvovec), a gene therapy for spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) in eligible adults and children aged two years and above. This decision makes the United Arab Emirates the second country globally to authorize this treatment, highlighting its commitment to advanced medical innovations. Onasemnogene abeparvovec, manufactured by Novartis, targets the genetic cause of SMA, aiming to improve patients' motor functions and reduce reliance on long-term treatments. Dr. Fatima Al Kaabi, Director-General of the United Arab Emirates — Emirates Drug Establishment, emphasized the efficiency of the country's health system in evaluating and approving innovative drugs. Mohamed Ezz Eldin, Head of the GCC Cluster at Novartis, noted the importance of this authorization for patients and families, and Novartis's commitment to neurology.
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