During the recent Global Cosmetic Regulators Summit (GCORAS 2026) held in Seoul, South Korea, a delegation from the UAE, led by Dr. Fatima Al Kaabi, Director General of the Emirates Drug Authority, showcased significant advancements in pharmaceutical regulation and innovation.
Keynote Address Highlights Innovation and Regulation
Dr. Al Kaabi delivered a keynote speech at the summit’s opening, emphasising the crucial interplay between innovation and effective regulation in fostering competitive and sustainable healthcare and pharmaceutical systems. She cited the Korean beauty sector, known as K-Beauty, as a global benchmark that successfully merges modern technologies with product safety and market accessibility. This model serves as an inspiration for enhancing the UAE’s pharmaceutical landscape.
Strengthening UAE-Korea Partnerships
Throughout the event, Dr. Al Kaabi underlined the promising opportunities that arise from the UAE-Korean partnership, which is poised to bolster the UAE’s position as a regional and international hub for pharmaceutical industries. This collaboration is intended to facilitate progress in both nations’ healthcare and drug regulatory frameworks.
Engagements with Korean Officials
During her visit, Dr. Al Kaabi met with His Excellency Jamal Abdullah Al Suwaidi, UAE Ambassador to South Korea, to discuss ongoing and future cooperative efforts. The UAE delegation also held two bilateral meetings with representatives from the Korean Ministry of Food and Drug Safety (MFDS), alongside the esteemed Minister of Food and Drug Safety, Dr. Yoo Kyung Oh. Furthermore, they engaged with Lee Hyung-hon, the Second Vice Minister of Health and Welfare in Korea, to explore avenues for further collaboration.
These meetings signify a commitment to knowledge exchange and the mutual enhancement of regulatory practices, ensuring safer and more innovative healthcare solutions for both nations.