Mubadala Investment Company has launched Mubadala Bio, a life sciences company aimed at strengthening the UAE’s pharmaceutical sector, improving health outcomes, and advancing economic diversification.

The company will focus on national drug security, increased access to essential therapeutics and medical devices, and the development of a knowledge-based economy.

The announcement was made ahead of Mubadala Bio’s participation in Make it in the Emirates 2025.

Mubadala Bio operations

Mubadala Bio’s operations include a network of 10 facilities across Asia, Africa, and Europe — six of which are located in the UAE — serving more than 100 countries.

Collectively, the facilities span 110,000 square meters and have an annual production capacity exceeding 2.5 billion tablets and capsules and 120 million IVs and injectables.

The portfolio covers more than 10,000 products.

The company’s therapeutic focus spans the full continuum of care, from prevention and diagnostics to treatment and complementary medicine, and aims to address global health challenges.

Mubadala Bio also intends to build long-term partnerships with global industry leaders and academic institutions to boost biopharma innovation and local manufacturing.

Strategic move for national resilience

“By launching Mubadala Bio, we are taking a transformative step towards strengthening national drug security and fostering innovation in life sciences,” said Dr. Bakheet Al Katheeri, CEO of Mubadala’s UAE Investments Platform. “This positions Mubadala at the forefront of the industry and enables us to drive long-term economic growth and a resilient ecosystem.”

Building for the future

Ismail Ali Abdulla, ED of UAE Clusters at Mubadala, added: “We are proud to take a significant step forward in supporting the UAE’s ambition to be a global leader in the life sciences industry. By focusing on local manufacturing and expanding distribution and logistics capabilities, we are building a more self-sustaining sector prepared for future challenges.”

Read: Abu Dhabi sovereign wealth fund Mubadala’s assets jump 9% in 2024

The startup ecosystem in the MENA region continues to evolve, with growing numbers of overseas arrivals intensifying competition in the market, particularly in the UAE and Saudi Arabia. It means founders must take their thinking to a new level in order to stand out.

The incentives are clear and obvious. In a report highlighting why 2025 will be an important year for MENA as an emerging venture market, MAGNiTT said it expects AI funding to double due to increased investor attention to innovative AI startups.

Dubai has solidified its position as a hub for international tech startups, attracting founders and investors from Europe, while Abu Dhabi emerged last year as the fastest-growing emerging ecosystem in the region, marking a 28% in ecosystem value.

Saudi Arabia’s growth as a startup magnet is driven by government initiatives like Vision 2030, which are fostering a supportive environment for both regional and global companies. As the country transitions to a knowledge-based economy, tech startups have a key role to play.

All this places an even bigger emphasis on local founders to develop a comprehensive understanding of the maturing market, and demonstrate value and innovation.

They can take heart from the $100m raised in a Series C funding round a few months ago by eyewa, the Middle East’s largest online eyewear retailer, with headquarters in Riyadh and Dubai.

The capital will play a pivotal role in the company plans to invest in R&D and talent acquisition, and open at least 100 new stores in 2025.

It highlights how selective investors are becoming. Only startups with a clear value proposition, a solid business model, and a strong potential for growth, are able to attract significant funding.

Have a clear plan to scale

Having a great idea is no longer enough. Entrepreneurs need a clear plan to scale their business. They must demonstrate a deep understanding of their market, and that their product or service can not only survive, but thrive, in a rapidly changing economic landscape.

Today’s investors are more cautious, prioritising startups with proven track records, scalable business models, and clear paths to profitability.

Tech entrepreneurs need to focus on building a strong brand, creating a loyal customer base, and demonstrating their ability to adapt to market changes.

In addition to creating a strong product and business model, startups must also be prepared to showcase their resilience. The general decline in funding this year is a reminder of how quickly market conditions can change.

Entrepreneurs need to be flexible, ready to pivot when necessary, and be prepared to weather economic downturns. Building a startup is a long-term journey, and those who can adapt to challenges and stay focused on their goals are more likely to succeed.

An influx of international players has increased the competitive nature of the MENA startup scene. The UAE ’s emergence as a hub for innovation is built on government initiatives like business accelerators and funding to attracting entrepreneurs from around the world.

Local entrepreneurs are no longer competing only with their regional peers, but also with startups from more established markets like Europe and the U.S.

This places an even bigger emphasis on them to develop a comprehensive understanding of the market, and be able to position their company as a leader in that space.

Customer experience is another critical area. Startups that prioritise the needs of their customers and work to build strong relationships with them are more likely to gain loyalty and positive word of mouth, which can be invaluable in attracting new customers and investors.

Continuous learning is crucial in a fast-changing world. Entrepreneurs need to keep up with the latest trends, technologies, and strategies. By attending industry events, reading industry news and taking online courses, founders can stay informed and ready to adapt to market shifts.

Building a strong team is just as important. Hiring talented people who believe in the company’s goals can help overcome challenges and achieve success.

Patience and perseverance are essential traits for any founder. The funding process shows that success takes time. Entrepreneurs need to be ready for setbacks and keep pushing toward their long-term goals.

While the path ahead may be difficult, those who are able to navigate these challenges with resilience and vision will have the best chance to thrive.

A clear view of where you want your company to go is essential. It’s not just about making money; it’s about creating something that will make a difference.

Focus on the following

Intuition: While data and numbers are important, sometimes you need to trust your gut. Your intuition can help you make good decisions, especially when things get tough.

Courage: The tech world is full of risks and uncertainties. You need to be brave and willing to take chances to succeed.

Motivation: Having a strong reason for starting your company can help you stay motivated,

Foresight: It’s important to think about the future and be prepared for what’s to come. This means staying up-to-date on trends and technology.

Inspiration: Building a successful company can be inspiring, but it’s also important to be inspired by others. Look for role models and mentors who can help you on your journey.

The writer is the sirector and co-founder of Scalo Technologies.

NABNI Developments has officially opened sales for the Waldorf Astoria Residences Dubai Business Bay, marking the iconic hospitality brand’s first standalone residential project outside the United States.
Unveiled on 19 May 2025, the launch follows a landmark partnership signed in 2024 between NABNI and Hilton.

The ultra-luxury development will feature 146 units across 65 storeys and is set to become the second tallest residential tower in the Business Bay and Downtown Dubai district once completed in Q4 2029.

“This translates perfectly to the residential market and, more specifically, to Dubai’s incredibly competitive premium real estate landscape,” said Abdulrahman Abdulla Alhelo Alsuwaidi, co-founder and chairman of NABNI Developments.

“Recent data from property consultancy Global Branded Residences revealed a 43 per cent year-on-year increase in 2024 in the sale of branded units, with this figure set to more than double in the next five years.”

Designed by the globally acclaimed architect Carlos Ott, the 350-metre tower draws deeply from Waldorf Astoria’s 130-year hospitality heritage, while the interiors—crafted by Hirsch Bedner Associates (HBA)—blend rich Art Nouveau and graceful Art Deco influences with Dubai’s bold modern design sensibility.

Residences are split into three bespoke collections:

• Signature Collection: One to three-bedroom residences
• Sky Collection: Four-bedroom units, multi-level sky villas, and sky mansions
• Sky Palace: A one-of-a-kind penthouse spanning four floors, with breathtaking 360-degree city views

Alsuwaidi added: “Our partnership with Hilton is elevating Dubai’s branded residences market by setting a new benchmark for luxury hospitality-led excellence… NABNI Developments’ ambition to lead the region’s branded residences segment through architectural mastery, service excellence, and unmatched attention to detail is exemplified in this exciting project.”

The tower’s prime location offers uninterrupted, dazzling views of the Burj Khalifa, while every residence features premium materials, intelligently optimised spatial layouts, and private lift access that brings residents and guests directly to their exclusive apartment lobbies.

Planned leisure and lifestyle offerings include:

• The world’s highest ‘Golf in the Sky’ simulator at 270 metres
• Adult-only and family pools with private cabanas
• A Waldorf Astoria spa and wellness centre
• Fitness and yoga studios, and a serene meditation deck
• Bespoke services such as in-home spa treatments, private chefs, personal drivers, pet care, and secretarial support

NABNI has also opened a stunning 1,000-square metre Sales Experience Centre in Business Bay, offering potential buyers a fully immersive 3D walkthrough of unit layouts and an interactive scale model of the visionary project.

Construction is set to begin in June 2025.

Motorists in Dubai can now benefit from new flexible parking subscription packages introduced by Parkin UAE, designed to simplify and enhance the parking experience across the city.

The announcement with regards to this was made on ParkinUAE official X account.

Read-New update on Dubai’s variable parking tariff policy; see details

The new subscription plans cover a wide range of parking options, including roadside spaces, public plots, and designated areas within private developments. These packages aim to offer convenience and cost savings for daily commuters, residents, and frequent visitors.

Roadside parking

Motorists can access convenient roadside parking across Dubai’s main streets and areas. These spaces are typically regulated by meters or zone codes (A & C) and are ideal for short-term parking during errands or brief visits.

Key benefits of the subscription model

Unlimited parking: Enjoy unrestricted daily parking in multiple areas without individual payments.

Exclusive savings: Access special rates available only to subscribers, offering more value for frequent users.

Worry-free convenience: Avoid the hassle of extending sessions or incurring fines, with seamless parking access.

Available parking zones and pricing

Wasl Real Estate: Park in popular Wasl-managed areas with subscriptions starting from Dhs300/month for zones W and WP.

Silicon Oasis (Zone H): Convenient parking near homes and offices, with subscriptions from Dhs1,400 for three months.

Silicon Oasis (Limited Area): Dedicated parking from Dhs1,000 for three months in select Silicon Oasis areas.

Dubai Hills (Zone 631G): Annual subscription options available for frequent commuters and residents.

Roadside and plot parking (Zones A, B, C, D): Subscriptions from Dhs500/month allow for seamless access without the need for meter payments.

Plot-only parking: Starting at Dhs250/month, users can park up to three vehicles in designated plots across zones B and D.

Parkin’s new subscription plans are aimed at delivering a more streamlined, cost-effective parking solution for all types of motorists in Dubai. Users can choose the package that best suits their lifestyle and parking habits.