Tokyo: A high-level delegation from the United Arab Emirates, comprising representatives from the Federal Authority for Nuclear Regulation (FANR) and Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi, conducted an official visit to Japan to enhance bilateral cooperation in advanced radiotherapy-particularly heavy ion therapy-as well as in related regulatory, healthcare, and research practices.
According to Emirates News Agency, the visit was led by Christer Viktorsson, Director-General of FANR, and aimed to gain in-depth insights into Japan's leadership in heavy ion therapy. This included examining Japan's regulatory frameworks, operational practices, safety protocols, and training programs required to build national capacity for utilizing such technologies.
During the visit, the UAE delegation held high-level meetings and technical exchanges with key Japanese institutions, including Yamagata University's Heavy Ion Medical Center, the National Institutes for Quantum Science and Technology (QST), the Nuclear Regulation Authority (NRA), and the Nuclear Damage Compensation and Decommissioning Facilitation Corporation.
The visit follows the UAE's recent announcement to establish the region's first heavy ion therapy center at Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi, a landmark initiative that underscores the country's commitment to advancing cancer care and positioning Abu Dhabi as a hub for world-class oncology services.
Christer Viktorsson, Director-General of FANR, stated that the visit reflects FANR's commitment to ensuring the safe and effective use of radiation in medicine through global collaboration. He noted that Japan's experience in advanced radiotherapy and regulatory oversight offers valuable lessons that will help realize the UAE's vision of becoming a leader in healthcare innovation, strengthening its knowledge-based economy, and promoting medical tourism.
Heavy ion therapy is an advanced form of radiotherapy known for its precision and efficacy. It delivers high doses of radiation directly to cancer cells while minimizing damage to surrounding healthy tissue. The treatment is especially effective for inoperable or treatment-resistant tumors, such as large cancers or liver metastases, and is associated with reduced treatment frequency and lower risk of secondary cancers.
The UAE delegation's discussions also covered regulatory licensing and oversight requirements, safety and operational standards, and the training frameworks needed to ensure a skilled workforce capable of safely managing such sophisticated technologies.
This visit forms part of FANR's ongoing efforts to strengthen international cooperation and uphold the highest standards of safety, security, and transparency in the UAE's nuclear and radiation sectors.