Abu Dhabi has become the first place globally to deliver ITVISMA (onasemnogene abeparvovec) for the treatment of spinal muscular atrophy, according to health authorities.
Under the supervision of the Abu Dhabi Department of Health (DoH), Sheikh Khalifa Medical City (SKMC), part of SEHA and a subsidiary of PureHealth, successfully administered the gene therapy developed by Novartis.
ITVISMA is a one-time gene therapy designed to address the genetic cause of spinal muscular atrophy in patients aged two years and older with a confirmed SMN1 gene mutation. The therapy works by replacing the missing or non-functioning SMN1 gene, aiming to improve motor function and reduce reliance on ongoing treatments.
The treatment received accelerated approval in the UAE on November 25, 2025, placing the country among the first globally, after the United States, to authorise its use. Health officials said the approval supports wider access to advanced therapies for rare diseases and strengthens Abu Dhabi’s position in genomics and precision medicine.
Dr Noura Khamis Al Ghaithi, Under-Secretary of the Department of Health, Abu Dhabi, said, “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".
"Our priority remains safeguarding the health of our community members and beyond ensuring access to cutting-edge therapies for rare diseases, supporting the emirate’s standing as a leading destination for medical tourism”.
Bader Al Qubaisi, Chief Executive Officer of SKMC, said, “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”.
Officials said the delivery of ITVISMA reflects ongoing efforts to position Abu Dhabi as a destination for advanced healthcare and medical tourism, while expanding treatment options for patients with rare genetic conditions.