The new entity aims to position Dubai as a global hub for regulated longevity, wellness, and advanced healthcare services, while also attracting investment into the sector.

Leadership appointments for the Dubai Longevity Authority

According to Decree No. (14) of 2026, His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence, and Chairman of The Executive Council of Dubai, will serve as President of the DLA. Helal Saeed Almarri, Director General of the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET), has been appointed Chairman under Decree No. (15) of 2026.

Supporting Dubai’s economic and social agendas

The establishment of the DLA supports the Dubai Economic Agenda (D33) and the Dubai Social Agenda 33, which aim to place Dubai among the world’s top three cities for quality of life and to achieve leading global benchmarks in healthy life expectancy. The authority will operate through innovation, strong governance, and strategic partnerships across government and private sectors.

His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum said the true wealth of nations lies in their people, emphasizing that Dubai’s priority is investing in health, quality of life, and human capability. He noted that Dubai seeks to lead the future of healthcare by advancing life sciences, biotechnology, and medical innovation to deliver real benefits to people and improve global well-being.

He added that Dubai’s ambition is to become the world’s leading destination for longevity, wellness, and advanced healthcare, attracting global talent and fostering innovation in transformative medical and scientific fields.

Regulatory framework and global collaboration

The Dubai Longevity Authority is mandated to develop a science-based, risk-proportionate regulatory framework for longevity-related therapies and innovations. It will oversee the full value chain, including research and development, clinical trials, manufacturing, service delivery, and patient care.

Launched in coordination with key entities such as the Dubai Health Authority, Dubai Health, Dubai Municipality, and the Dubai Future Foundation, the DLA will ensure compliance with international standards and best practices across the sector.

Helal Saeed Almarri, Chairman of the DLA, stated that the longevity and advanced healthcare sector is one of the world’s fastest-growing economic frontiers. He said the authority will provide regulatory certainty across the value chain, attract investment and talent, and enable the development of advanced therapeutic solutions that enhance both lifespan and quality of life.

The DLA will also develop strategies to support innovation ecosystems, promote safe experimentation, attract high-potential companies, and encourage international collaboration through partnerships and global events, positioning Dubai as a leader in next-generation healthcare solutions.