The UAE has taken a significant step forward in obesity and heart health management. The Emirates Drug Establishment (EDE) has officially approved Wegovy (semaglutide), a once-daily oral treatment designed for long-term weight management and cardiovascular risk reduction in adults dealing with obesity or overweight conditions tied to related health complications.
This decision places the UAE as the second country globally to authorize this innovative oral therapy, putting the nation squarely at the forefront of pharmaceutical adoption in the region.
What Is Wegovy and How Does It Work?
Wegovy belongs to a class of medicines called GLP-1 receptor agonists, developed by Danish pharmaceutical giant Novo Nordisk. The treatment is taken once daily and works best alongside a reduced-calorie diet and regular physical activity. It supports sustainable weight loss and helps patients maintain those results over the long term.
Clinical studies presented during the approval process confirmed that semaglutide can meaningfully help patients reduce and maintain body weight. Researchers also found significant cardiovascular benefits, including a reduced risk of major adverse events such as heart attacks, strokes, and cardiovascular-related deaths among high-risk individuals.
A Step Forward for UAE Healthcare
Dr Fatma Al Kaabi, Director General of the Emirates Drug Establishment, said the approval reflects the UAE's determination to strengthen its pharmaceutical sector and confront obesity head-on, noting that it remains a major driver of chronic diseases worldwide.
She added that the UAE remains committed to adopting innovative medical solutions while maintaining rigorous scientific and regulatory standards, ensuring both patient safety and treatment effectiveness are never compromised.
Venkat Kalyan, General Manager of Novo Nordisk Gulf, welcomed the approval and credited the collaborative relationship with the EDE. He highlighted semaglutide's established safety record and wide acceptance within the global medical community.
Why the Oral Format Matters
One of the most practical advantages of the newly approved treatment is its once-daily oral formulation. For many eligible patients, swallowing a pill each morning is far more manageable than complex medication routines, and that convenience often translates directly into better treatment adherence over time.
Healthcare experts believe the approval opens a valuable new door for individuals struggling with obesity and related conditions, offering support for both weight management goals and long-term heart health.
As obesity rates climb globally, the UAE's decision reinforces its growing reputation as a regional leader in healthcare innovation and patient-centred medical advancement.
