Burjeel Holdings and Caring Cross launch affordable CAR-T therapy in MENA, reducing treatment costs by 90% and expanding access.
Abu Dhabi: In a breakthrough for regional healthcare, Burjeel Holdings has announced a strategic partnership with U.S. non-profit Caring Cross to locally produce affordable CAR-T therapy, reducing treatment costs by up to 90%. The collaboration, revealed at Abu Dhabi Global Health Week, promises to make cell-based cancer care more accessible across MENA.
CAR-T therapy, known for reprogramming a patient’s immune cells to fight cancers such as leukemia and lymphoma, has proven life-saving—but at prohibitive global costs often exceeding US$350,000. Through point-of-care manufacturing, Burjeel aims to offer affordable CAR-T therapy at a fraction of this cost.
Caring Cross will provide technology, lentiviral vectors, and specialist training to help establish a sustainable local production ecosystem. The partnership’s initial focus is on blood cancers, with future plans for conditions such as HIV.
John Sunil, Group CEO, Burjeel Holdings, stated, “This partnership enables us to deliver life-saving, affordable CAR-T therapy to patients who previously had limited or no access. It’s a transformative leap in healthcare innovation and accessibility.”
Boro Dropulić, Executive Director of Caring Cross, echoed the sentiment: “Our mission is to make advanced therapies globally accessible. Partnering with Burjeel’s healthcare network will help us realise that mission in MENA.”
Dr. Ajlan Al Zaki, Director at Burjeel Hospital, added, “This initiative brings biological therapies to underserved regions like MENA and South Asia. It’s a game-changer in cancer care.”
This move positions Burjeel Holdings as a hub for advanced cell and gene therapy in the region, highlighting its commitment to bridging global treatment gaps. By training local professionals and building sustainable infrastructure, the initiative will make affordable CAR-T therapy a reality for millions.
