The first global shipment of AstraZeneca's Evusheld has been received in Abu Dhabi.
The antibody medication will help prevent severe infection and death among immunocompromised patients and will add to the existing medications to help in fighting the virus.
The shipment was received after the Ministry of Health and Prevention in the UAE gave emergency use authorisation.
In partnership with Rafed, the primary group purchasing organisation in the UAE, Etihad Cargo, Abu Dhabi Airports Company and AstraZeneca, the multinational pharmaceutical and biotechnology company, the shipment was received on 20 December.
The shipment will be stored at Rafed's distribution centre and will then be distributed.
His Excellency Dr Jamal Mohammed Al Kaabi, Undersecretary of the Department of Health in Abu Dhabi said, "Under the directives of our wise leadership, we are continuously working towards bringing innovative treatment and breakthrough solutions to the UAE. Our collaboration with leading global organisations is a key milestone for Abu Dhabi as it enforces our mission that is focused on safeguarding the health and wellbeing of residents and visitors in the emirate."