Abu Dhabi launches vaccine centre to boost global access

Operations have started at a new vaccine distribution hub in Abu Dhabi designed to deliver millions of doses each year. The centre aims to improve healthcare access across the region.

The hub is based at Khalifa Economic Zones Abu Dhabi (Kezad) and is operated by Rafed, a subsidiary of PureHealth. Authorities in Abu Dhabi developed the facility in partnership with pharmaceutical company GlaxoSmithKline (GSK).

The hub has now received its first shipment and is operational. It will manage more than 20 vaccines for both adults and children. The goal is to boost immunisation rates and reduce the spread of diseases.

The facility uses advanced cold-chain and smart distribution systems to maintain vaccine quality. These technologies ensure that vaccines remain at the right temperature during storage and transport.

The centre is linked to Etihad Cargo’s PharmaLife network. This connection supports temperature-controlled, time-sensitive delivery to over 100 destinations worldwide.

Dr Noura Khamis Al Ghaithi, Undersecretary of Abu Dhabi's Department of Health, said, “The operational launch of Abu Dhabi’s regional vaccine hub signals our readiness to serve the region with speed, precision and reliability.”

She added that it marks Abu Dhabi’s growing role in global health and preventive care.

The hub is part of a broader partnership involving the Abu Dhabi Investment Office, Abu Dhabi Ports Group and Etihad Cargo.

Boyd Chongphaisal, Vice President and General Manager for GSK Gulf, said, “The launch of our vaccine distribution hub in Abu Dhabi represents a shared commitment to health security, innovation, and access.”

He noted that this is GSK’s first such centre in the Middle East and only the fourth in the world.

This partnership builds on the collaboration established during the Covid-19 pandemic.