Abu Dhabi: Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi has become the first and only research hospital in the UAE to receive full accreditation from the Association for the Accreditation of Human Research Protection Programs (AAHRPP), earning the globally recognized 'gold seal' for ethical and high-quality research.
According to Emirates News Agency, the AAHRPP accreditation, considered the gold standard in research excellence, confirms that the hospital's policies, procedures, and operations meet internationally accepted best practices. This milestone ensures that all aspects of research-protocol review, oversight, and participant engagement are conducted with the highest ethical standards, protecting the rights and wellbeing of research participants.
Since launching its research program, Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi has enrolled over 5,000 patients across more than 600 studies, completing 256, including 40 in 2024 alone. Dr. Georges-Pascal Haber, CEO of Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi, remarked that this recognition is a moment of pride for the hospital and the region, reaffirming their commitment to ethical research that advances patient care and sets a benchmark for integrity and innovation in medical research.
The accreditation followed a rigorous evaluation, including a site visit and team interviews, reflecting the dedication of the hospital's research teams. Dr. Sawsan Abdel-Razig, Chief Academic Officer, noted that this achievement is a testament to the strength and integrity of their research community and highlights their responsibility to advance medical knowledge with global impact.
The hospital was named the UAE's top research hospital by the Ministry of Health and Prevention for the second consecutive year in 2024. It is currently conducting 226 active research studies, supported by over 200 research-engaged caregivers. Research efforts have attracted over AED12 million in funding from regulators and partners.
Three physician-researchers also secured grants through the Department of Health's Ma'an Research Grant Cycle in 2024. Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi recorded the highest number of indexed publications in 2023, reinforcing its leadership in medical research.
AAHRPP-accredited institutions include those in the United States, Australia, Belgium, Brazil, Canada, China, India, Japan, Jordan, Mexico, Republic of Korea, Saudi Arabia, Singapore, Taiwan, Thailand, and now the UAE. The accreditation confirms that Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi's research protections exceed internationally required safeguards.
As it continues to grow its research capacity, this accreditation cements Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi's role as a regional and global leader in ethical, transformative medical research.