UAE tightens law on donation and transplantation of organs

The UAE Government has issued a Federal Decree-Law amending certain provisions of the Federal Decree-Law concerning the donation and transplantation of organs and tissues.

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The amendments form part of the UAE's ongoing efforts to advance its health legislative framework, enhance patient safety, and ensure alignment with the nation's objectives for modernising healthcare legislation in line with the latest international medical and technical practices.

The Federal Decree-Law aligns with global health policies that recognise the use of animal-derived organs or manufactured organs as advanced therapeutic options, subject to strict medical and technical controls that safeguard patient well-being and prevent unregulated or unsafe practices.

The amendments reaffirm the UAE's commitment to strengthening the rule of law, ensuring the highest levels of health protection, and providing access to treatment options based on modern and scientifically validated technologies.

The Decree-Law also replaces the text's title to read “Concerning the Donation and Transplantation of Organs and Tissues,” reflecting the comprehensive nature of the legislation following the expansion of its scope to include nonhuman organs and tissues.

The amendments further define “nonhuman organ” to include animal organs and manufactured organs, and establish a regulatory framework governing their use.