Briefly tell us about your organisation and its activities in the healthcare industry, notably in the Middle East region

GulfDrug started as a pharmaceutical distributor in 1969 and has steadily evolved into a comprehensive healthcare solutions provider today. Our expansive range of services caters to the diverse needs of hospitals, clinics, pharmacies, and healthcare institutions in the UAE and the GCC. Over the years, GulfDrug has played a vital role in major medical projects throughout the UAE, equipping hospitals with innovative technologies and advanced medicines to ensure the best patient outcomes.

What are your thoughts on the current market trends? If possible, please predicts the sectors poised for growth.

Keen to diversify from an oil-based economy, the UAE has pinpointed medical tourism as a potential area for growth. The UAE's dedication to becoming a healthcare and medical tourism hub is a driving force. There's a significant shift towards patient-centric care and technological innovation. AI and automation play a pivotal role, not just in improving efficiency but also in enhancing patient outcomes. Digital solutions are shaping the future of healthcare globally, and the UAE is actively embracing this trend. Telemedicine and Health apps are enhancing accessibility and efficiency. Another shift is from traditional hospital-centric models to patient-centric care, with a growing emphasis on value-based healthcare and the "hospital at home" concept. This transformation underscores a commitment to offering more personalized and convenient healthcare services, ultimately improving the overall patient experience. There is also a trend towards the development of specialized healthcare services and centers of excellence, catering to specific medical specialties and advanced treatments.

Please highlight your portfolio and/or services. What sets you apart from others in the region’s competitive market?

Our specialized business units are designed to offer comprehensive solutions, setting us apart in the competitive market. 

• Medical Equipment Business delivers cutting-edge technologies spanning Critical Care, Dialysis, Medical Imaging, Infection Control, Endoscopy, Oncology Solutions, Robotic Surgery Equipment, Pharmacy Automation, and more.  
• Pharmaceutical and Consumer Healthcare Retail Business stands out with a range encompassing pharmaceuticals, OTC, herbal, and consumer health products from world-class brands. We have invested significantly in our supply chain, reinforcing cold chain management, and elevating our medical storage and distribution capabilities. 
• Pharmaceutical Institutional Business caters comprehensively to hospitals, providing pre- and post-sale services to government, semi-government, and private in-patient hospitals and pharmacies. 
• Medical Supplies and Instruments Business delivers high-quality disposables and instruments across various medical specialties and labs in the UAE, including Cardiovascular, Surgical and Infection, Emergency, Obstetrics and Gynecology, Orthopedics, and Radiology.  
• The Veterinary Healthcare Business covers a spectrum of products, from pharmaceuticals and vaccines to feed additives, disinfectants, medical disposables, and devices for the veterinary sector. 

Such an extensive offering of services and medical equipment, coupled with a traceable history, enduring partnerships with international suppliers, and consistent growth, makes us a leading force in healthcare in the UAE. We continually expand our capacity and capabilities to stay ahead of evolving demands, reflecting our commitment to excellence in the industry. 

Tell us about your recent achievements and accolades.

GulfDrug’s recent achievements underscore the commitment to pioneering healthcare solutions. In cancer care, we have introduced state-of-the-art Proton Therapy, a milestone in precise and targeted cancer treatment. In the digital health space, our initiatives, such as diabetes management programs and remote patient monitoring, go beyond treatment, proactively enhancing overall well-being through personalized healthcare. GulfDrug Pharma division has been recognized by many globally renowned multinationals as their partner of choice for the UAE market, to fully manage the life cycle of their innovative medications for rare diseases, oncology patients, and specialty products, as well as for many consumer healthcare products in the retail business segment. 

A standout achievement includes the launch of our cooled supply chain facility in Abu Dhabi's Industrial City in early 2023. This smart facility, certified by Dickson and accredited by DAC, employs the best systems, procedures, and controls. Supported by a smart delivery fleet and ISO-certified warehouses, manned by highly qualified teams, we ensure the integrity and safekeeping of medical supplies during transportation.

Give us an insight into your investments and partnerships, as well as your plans for 2024

GulfDrug’s track record in partnerships and investments speaks volumes. We have strategically aligned with more than 150 international industry leaders, representing the pinnacle of healthcare excellence. Among these notable partners are familiar names such as Canon, Drager, Fresenius Medical Care, Olympus, EOS Imaging, Steris, KLS Martin, Omnicell, Cardinal Healthcare, Cook Critical Care, and Eppendorf, to name just a few. We have also partnered with over 100 healthcare centers and hospitals in the UAE alone, providing the supply, installation, and maintenance of top-tier equipment in wards and theatres, contributing significantly to the region's healthcare infrastructure. 

What will you be showcasing at Arab Health 2024, and what opportunities are you looking forward to?

Arab Health 2024 is an exciting opportunity to showcase our holistic solutions within the healthcare ecosystem. We will highlight our dynamic managed services and solutions that reflect our role in empowering medical providers with modern solutions to redefine patient care standards. We are at the forefront of innovation, dedicated to advancing healthcare in the UAE through groundbreaking solutions.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

We aim to further solidify our position as a reliable enabler in healthcare by expanding our portfolio and services. GulfDrug is committed to staying at the forefront of innovation, embracing emerging technologies, and fostering strategic partnerships. Our vision is to play an integral role in shaping the future of healthcare, ensuring that individuals have access to the most advanced and personalized solutions.