Advances in cell and gene therapy and expanding Gulf healthcare capabilities are opening new opportunities for regional collaboration, participants heard at World Health Expo Dubai 2026.

During a panel titled “Cell & Gene Therapy Waves: From Scientific Breakthroughs to Real-World Clinical Delivery,” international clinicians and industry leaders discussed global experience in research, technology transfer, and multi-stakeholder cooperation to prepare healthcare systems for advanced therapies.

Moderated by Ebru Yavuz, UAE General Manager of Arabian Ethicals, the session featured Professor Marcos De Lima of The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center and Dr. Rabi Hanna of Cleveland Clinic Children’s Hospital. Speakers highlighted developments in cellular therapies such as CAR-T, alongside the importance of clinical governance, regulatory oversight, and long-term evidence generation.

Panelists noted that collaborative innovation models are helping address complex diseases including sickle cell disease and thalassemia. They emphasized that responsible adoption requires strong regulation, specialized infrastructure, and sustainable planning.

The discussion reflects broader GCC priorities around healthcare innovation, quality, and scientific collaboration.