Pfizer establishes regional HQ in Dubai

 

  

Global pharmaceutical heavyweight Pfizer has announced the establishment of its new regional medical and marketing headquarters in Dubai, licensed by the Dubai Biotechnology and Research Park (DuBiotech).

 

Pfizer’s move comes as part of its strategy to establish Dubai as its regional hub for the Middle East and Africa. The pharmaceutical major already has more than 1,300 employees in the Middle East, with regional offices in Dubai and Cairo.

 

Talking about the move, Jeffrey B Kindler, Chairman and CEO of Pfizer Inc, said: “DuBiotech has a holistic vision on how the biotechnology industry is required to operate for registering consistent growth. The biotechnology park has realised the need for top-tier talent to sustain this line of business. Our partnership with DuBiotech also offers us a solid regulatory system and the right governmental support to drive innovation, which is crucial to the development of the biotechnology sector.” 

 

Earlier in the week, Kindler met His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, after which he said: “Dubai has a wonderful investor-friendly climate. The extraordinary vision of its leaders has ensured the emirate is our location of choice for setting up Pfizer’s Gulf regional headquarters.”

 

A spokesman for DuBiotech said: “We are pleased to welcome a global research-based pharmaceutical company such as Pfizer Inc to our growing DuBiotech community. This affiliation is a singular achievement not just for DuBiotech but also for the region as we endeavour to establish Dubai as a hub for life sciences. The presence of Pfizer will add significant value to the biotechnology industry and contribute to its development in the region.

 

“In our endeavour to create a regional centre of excellence, we look forward to future partnerships in clinical trials and education with Pfizer, as well as with other pharmaceutical and biotechnology giants.”

 

DuBiotech hosts 35 licensed firms. The free zone is working to grow the life sciences sector in the country.