Shift toward biologics, localisation and tech-transfer expected to drive a surge in deal-making ahead of World Health Expo 2026, according to a new Grand View Research study.

Dubai, UAE, Nov 27 – A new study by Grand View Research forecasts a sharp rise in life-sciences M&A across the Middle East as Gulf governments intensify efforts to build a globally competitive biotech and health-technology manufacturing base. With the UAE’s Life Sciences Strategy and Saudi Vision 2030 accelerating investment into advanced therapies, biologics and supply-chain localisation, analysts say the region is entering a decisive phase of consolidation ahead of next year’s World Health Expo (WHX), formerly Arab Health, in Dubai.

The report places Dubai at the centre of this shift, positioning the city as a platform for cross-border partnerships and capacity-building. “Dubai and the broader GCC now sit at the crossroads of science, capital and policy,” said Swayam Dash, Managing Director of Grand View Research. “That convergence is catalysing a wave of acquisitions and joint ventures. Localisation is no longer just about cost – it’s about creating a viable ecosystem for advanced therapies that can serve the region and export beyond it.”