The Ministry of Health and Prevention (MoHAP) has approved Moderna’s Covid-19 vaccine emergency registration.

The decision was after clinical trials of vaccine were completed and a strict assessment of same was conducted to approve vaccine’s emergency use, as well as the approval of the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

UAE is committed to provide safe and efficient vaccine to promote curbing of coronavirus pandemic, said Dr. Mohamed Salim Al-Olama, Under-Secretary of MoHAP. He further emphasized that this is a crucial step for prevention and boost recovery phase and community immunization. Al-Olama noted that the appreciable increase in COVID-19 vaccine shots to about 15 million doses reflects success of the national vaccination campaign, and UAE's apt approach in countering pandemic, reach the recovery phase, and bring optimistic approach in community.

Dr. Amin Hussein Al Amiri, Assistant Under-Secretary of the Health Regulatory Sector, said, “The decision was taken after Moderna has submitted all the documents that fulfil the country's procedures and regulations and conform to global standards for safety of the vaccine and its use.” He added this will now allow local health authorities to import the vaccine after fulfilling shipping-related safety and efficacy standards. 

A review of vaccine safety studies was made based on the FDA approval, said Al Amiri, further noting that the clinical trials have shown safety and efficacy of the vaccine, and that it is triggering an immune response.

"As the world continues to endure the drastic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, we feel privileged to be taking part in the global effort to enhance the protection of humanity by making available this highly advanced vaccine in the United Arab Emirates. Magenta is fully committed to supporting the efforts of the UAE government in its monumental efforts to contain the pandemic," said Dr. Zahid Al Sabti, Managing Director of Magenta Investments. 

He added, "I am delighted to see Magenta entering this strategic partnership with Moderna and contributing to the ongoing battle against the pandemic."

"We welcome the opportunity to work alongside Magenta for the distribution of our vaccine in the UAE," said Corinne Le Goff, Chief Commercial Officer of Moderna. "Together with our partners, we hope to advance our goal to expand access to our vaccine globally, and support governments, as with the UAE, in protecting their citizens, residents, and visitors against the pandemic."

WAM