Abu Dhabi becomes global first to administer Itvisma gene therapy

Healthcare

Abu Dhabi becomes global first to administer Itvisma gene therapy

In a landmark medical breakthrough, Abu Dhabi has become the first city in the world to administer ITVISMA (onasemnogene abeparvovec), a revolutionary gene therapy for spinal muscular atrophy (SMA). The milestone underscores the UAE’s growing reputation as a global hub for medical innovation and advanced healthcare delivery.

The Sheikh Khalifa Medical City (SKMC), part of SEHA, a subsidiary of PureHealth, successfully administered the therapy under the supervision of the Department of Health – Abu Dhabi (DoH), the healthcare regulator for the emirate.

Developed by Novartis, ITVISMA represents a new generation of genetic treatments designed to address the root cause of SMA — a rare and potentially life-threatening genetic disorder that affects muscle movement.

UAE among first countries globally to approve treatment

The UAE granted accelerated approval for ITVISMA on November 25, 2025, making it one of the first countries after the United States to authorize and deliver the therapy. The move highlights Abu Dhabi’s commitment to providing early access to advanced medical treatments and improving patient outcomes through innovation.

ITVISMA is a one-time gene therapy specifically designed for patients aged two years and older with a confirmed SMN1 gene mutation. By replacing the missing or defective SMN1 gene, the treatment aims to restore motor function, reduce disease progression, and eliminate the need for continuous long-term therapies.

Global first marks Abu Dhabi’s leadership in advanced medicine

Dr Noura Khamis Al Ghaithi, Under-Secretary of the Department of Health – Abu Dhabi, said:

“By administering ITVISMA, we are proud to be among the first to provide this innovative treatment, further reinforcing our role as a leader and accelerator in advanced and innovative healthcare.”

Bader Al Qubaisi, Chief Executive Officer of SKMC, added:

“Delivering the world’s first ITVISMA treatment at Sheikh Khalifa Medical City is a testament to Abu Dhabi’s integrated healthcare ecosystem and its commitment to transforming patient care under the leadership of the Department of Health.”

This pioneering medical achievement reinforces Abu Dhabi’s position as a regional and global leader in precision medicine, aligning with its long-term strategy to advance life sciences, biotechnology, and genomic research.