Cell-therapy due diligence for patients in the UAE
A country-specific starting point for checking product authorisation, trial oversight and cross-border follow-up. This page does not rank providers or recommend medical travel.
What the regulator can confirm
The United Arab Emirates regulates different parts of cell and tissue activity through federal and emirate-level authorities. The MOHAP regulation for cord-blood and stem-cell storage centres concerns licensing and operation of those centres; it is not proof that every therapeutic use of stored or processed cells is authorised. Depending on location and activity, MOHAP, the Dubai Health Authority or the Department of Health Abu Dhabi may be relevant.
Ask the provider which authority regulates the facility, product, manufacturing step and proposed indication. Obtain the current licence or authorisation number and scope, not a logo or general certificate. If treatment is described as research, request the authorised protocol, ethics approval, sponsor, insurance and public results plan.
Evidence to request before treatment
| Question | Document or identifier | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|
| What exactly is administered? | Product name, cell source, processing, dose and route | Evidence and legal status are product- and indication-specific. |
| What is the legal route? | Marketing authorisation, authorised trial number, or named exemption and authority | A clinic licence or registry listing does not by itself authorise a product. |
| Who manufactures it? | Legal manufacturer, site and authorisation scope | General references to GMP are not a substitute for a current, applicable record. |
| How are harms managed? | Consent form, adverse-event plan, insurance and emergency contact | Experimental status does not remove the duty to disclose and manage risk. |
| What happens after travel? | Written follow-up plan and named clinician | Cross-border care can complicate continuity and reporting. |
Conditions compared
Educational regulatory orientation, reviewed in 2026. Verify current records directly with the authority and seek independent medical advice.