Abu Dhabi has achieved a groundbreaking medical milestone by becoming the first global location to administer Itvisma (onasemnogene abeparvovec), an innovative gene therapy treatment for spinal muscular atrophy (SMA). The historic procedure was performed at Sheikh Khalifa Medical City (SKMC), operated by SEHA under PureHealth, with oversight from the Department of Health – Abu Dhabi (DoH).
This revolutionary single-dose gene therapy, developed by pharmaceutical giant Novartis, received accelerated approval from UAE health authorities on November 25, 2025. The achievement positions the United Arab Emirates as the first country outside the United States to implement this cutting-edge treatment, demonstrating Abu Dhabi’s emerging leadership in advanced medical innovation.
ITVISMA represents a significant advancement in genetic medicine, specifically designed to address the root genetic cause of SMA in patients aged two years and older with confirmed SMN1 gene mutations. Unlike conventional treatments that require ongoing management, this one-time therapy replaces the missing SMN1 gene to enhance motor function and potentially transform patient outcomes.
Dr. Noura Khamis Al Ghaithi, Under-Secretary of DoH, emphasized the significance of this achievement: “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 at SKMC, highlighted the collaborative effort behind this medical breakthrough: “Delivering the world’s first ITVISMA treatment at SKMC is a testament to Abu Dhabi’s integrated healthcare ecosystem under the leadership of the Department of Health – Abu Dhabi.”
This medical advancement signals a new era for regional healthcare accessibility, positioning Abu Dhabi as a emerging destination for cutting-edge medical treatments and establishing the UAE as a significant player in the global healthcare innovation landscape.