Mubadala’s KELIX bio acquires Julphar’s DiabTec

KELIX Bio, a subsidiary of Mubadala Investment Company, has completed its acquisition of DiabTec, a biomanufacturing facility previously owned by Julphar, one of the UAE’s largest pharmaceutical companies.

The acquisition is strategically aligned with Mubadala’s focus on supporting global healthcare challenges, particularly in the treatment of diabetes, through the production of microbial-based therapies such as insulin analogues and GLP-1 products.

DiabTec operates a cutting-edge facility that includes 20,000-litre drug substance reactors and a dedicated cartridge fill-finish unit for drug products.

Built to meet both EU and US FDA standards, it is the only facility of its kind in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC).

Dr Bakheet Al Katheeri, CEO of Mubadala’s UAE Investments Platform, underscored the strategic importance of the acquisition, stating: “The acquisition of DiabTec by KELIX Bio is a significant milestone for Mubadala, further strengthening our nation’s position in the global life sciences ecosystem. This strategic investment reflects our commitment to responsible investing, addressing critical global healthcare challenges like the growing need for insulin analogues. Moreover, it strengthens Mubadala’s portfolio of biologicals, establishes our role in biomanufacturing across the MENA region, and advances the UAE’s life sciences sector through local manufacturing.”

The acquisition also addresses the growing global demand for insulin and related treatments

The acquisition also addresses the growing global demand for insulin and related treatments. Ismail Ali Abdulla, executive director of UAE Clusters at Mubadala’s UAE Investments Platform, added: “Mubadala recognises the critical importance of ensuring reliable access to therapeutic solutions like insulin analogues, particularly in light of growing global demand and supply challenges. The acquisition of DiabTec is a direct response to this need. This move not only strengthens Mubadala’s and the UAE’s life sciences sector but also underscores our commitment to improving global health outcomes by contributing to a more secure and sustainable insulin analogue supply chain.”

This deal is part of Mubadala’s broader strategy to enhance the UAE’s pharmaceutical capabilities and contribute to the nation’s economic diversification. The acquisition also builds on Mubadala’s recent purchase of assets from GlobalOne Healthcare Holding, which is expected to further boost the UAE’s biopharmaceutical manufacturing capabilities.

Sheikh Saqer Bin Humaid Al Qasimi, chairman of Julphar’s Board, commented on the transaction: “The sale of this facility is a further step in Julphar’s strategy to divest non-core assets. Julphar supports Mubadala’s initiative to strengthen the pharmaceutical sector in the UAE and to build broader API manufacturing capabilities in the country.”

DiabTec acquisition highlights Mubadala’s focus on the life sciences sector

Hocine Sidi Said, CEO of KELIX Bio, emphasised the broader implications of the acquisition, stating: “The acquisition of DiabTec highlights Mubadala’s commitment to our growth and to back our ambition to support the growth of the UAE life sciences sector. With the rising number of diabetes patients globally, access to insulin analogues remains a challenge in many regions. To address this challenge, KELIX Bio aims to improve access to critical treatments, ensuring that those in need can receive the care they require.”

With this acquisition, Mubadala continues to cement its position as a global leader in the biopharmaceutical industry, reinforcing the UAE’s role at the forefront of life sciences innovation and biomanufacturing.

Read: UAE’s Julphar divests Zahrat Al Rawdah Pharmacies