DuBiotech partners global research leader to develop regulatory framework

The regulatory framework is expected to significantly boost the budding biotechnology and life sciences industries in the region. RTI will help DuBiotech establish laboratory and operational standards adapted to the needs of Dubai and DuBiotech. The framework will address general park regulations, health and safety issues, laboratory accreditation, environment and waste management, bioethics, clinical trials, and non-clinical research as well as intellectual property. Working together, DuBiotech and RTI will also ensure that the recommended legal and regulatory framework complies with both UAE and Islamic laws and customs.

"Biotechnology opens a whole new world of economic and social possibility for the region," said Dr. Abdulqader Al Khayat, Executive Director of DuBiotech.

"A sound regulatory framework is necessary to harness biotechnology's potential to improve health, enhance quality of life, support the environment and promote a sustainable economy. The regulations will provide a secure and encouraging environment for research and innovation, which is central to the growth of biotechnology," he added.

"We are keen to develop a regulatory framework based on international best practices for the park, and that is why we chose RTI International as a consultant for the project. "RTI's mission, reputation and commitment to research integrity are exactly what we were looking for in this project," Dr. Al Khayat further said.

"We're excited to be helping an organization like DuBiotech set the stage for world-class research and development," said Adam Saffer, Ph.D., Executive Vice President of Strategic Planning at RTI. "As the founding tenant of Research Triangle Park, we're looking forward to the opportunity to share our knowledge and expertise to help establish DuBiotech as one of the leading research and development zones in the Middle East."

A world leader in environment, health, and international development research and services, RTI International has nearly 50 years of experience and has completed projects in more than 120 countries. It is recognized around the world for its research excellence in the fields of health, toxicology, laboratory sciences and environmental research.

As a leading research and technical services provider for the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Food and Drug Administration, Health and Human Services, National Institutes of Health and numerous other government agencies, RTI has extensive experience supporting national programmes in environment and health for both government and industry.