Middle East life sciences M&A set to accelerate

A new study forecasts a sharp rise in life-sciences M&A across the Middle East as Gulf governments intensify efforts to build a globally competitive biotech and health-technology manufacturing base.

- Somshankar Bandyopadhyay [e-mail]

With the UAE's Life Sciences Strategy and Saudi Vision 2030 accelerating investment into advanced therapies, biologics and supply-chain localisation, analysts say the region is entering a decisive phase of consolidation.

The report by Grand View Research places Dubai at the centre of this shift, positioning the city as a platform for cross-border partnerships and capacity-building. “Dubai and the broader GCC now sit at the crossroads of science, capital and policy,” said Swayam Dash, Managing Director of Grand View Research. “That convergence is catalysing a wave of acquisitions and joint ventures. Localisation is no longer just about cost-it’s about creating a viable ecosystem for advanced therapies that can serve the region and export beyond it.”

According to the study, the Middle East healthcare CDMO (Contract Development & Manufacturing Organisation) market was valued at $6.27 billion (Dh23 billion) in 2024 and is projected to almost double to $11.91 billion by 2033 (CAGR 7.5 per cent).