Abu dhabi: Abu Dhabi Biobank (ADBB), in collaboration with Bascom Palmer Eye Institute of the University of Miami Health System, has announced the establishment of the Middle East's first eye bank in Abu Dhabi. The partnership was formalized during the BIO International Convention 2026 in San Diego, US, with the objective of enhancing corneal transplantation services and expanding access to sight-restoring treatments across the UAE and the surrounding region.
According to Emirates News Agency, the Abu Dhabi Biobank - Eye Bank represents a crucial development in Abu Dhabi's healthcare infrastructure, focusing on advanced transplant and biobanking capabilities. This initiative is set to provide world-class corneal transplantation services to patients in the region, following a previous collaboration between the Department of Health - Abu Dhabi and Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, which established its first international facility in Abu Dhabi. This expanded access to the institute's renowned ophthalmic care, research, and medical education.
Dr. Noura Khamis Al Ghaithi, Undersecretary of the Department of Health - Abu Dhabi, emphasized the Emirate's commitment to delivering quality healthcare and medical expertise locally. She highlighted that the partnership with Bascom Palmer Eye Institute demonstrates Abu Dhabi's dedication to innovation and international collaboration, positioning it as a globally connected healthcare hub.
The partnership aims to establish local eye banking capabilities, thereby providing UAE patients with timely access to corneal transplants. This development is expected to reduce dependence on imported donor tissue, enhance regional self-sufficiency, and improve access to essential treatments, ensuring a reliable pathway to sight-restoring care.
The eye bank will be responsible for recovering, processing, preserving, and distributing donor corneal tissue in line with international standards. This initiative addresses logistical challenges and uncertainties associated with international sourcing, while ensuring quality assurance, traceability, and improved patient outcomes.
Albarah El Khani, Chief Operating Officer of Integrated Health Solutions at M42, remarked on the significance of the eye bank in creating essential health infrastructure, reducing reliance on imported tissue, and fostering regional transplant capabilities. The partnership with Bascom Palmer Eye Institute ensures adherence to the highest international standards, aligning with Abu Dhabi's vision for a leading healthcare system.
Dr. Zain Kenderian, Chief Executive Officer of Bascom Palmer Eye Institute Abu Dhabi, noted the institute's long-standing dedication to advancing ophthalmic care and the importance of international partnerships. He stressed that the eye bank will play a vital role in transplantation science, research, and clinical training, supporting sustainable and high-quality corneal donation and transplantation in the region.
The Abu Dhabi Biobank - Eye Bank will work in conjunction with Hayat, the UAE's national organ donation initiative, to manage the recovery, processing, preservation, and distribution of corneal tissue, further strengthening the region's healthcare capabilities.
