Etihad Cargo, the cargo and logistics arm of Etihad Airways, is helping advance Abu Dhabi's goal to become a global pharmaceutical and life science distribution hub.

The cargo and logistics arm of Etihad Airways said it is partnering with Abu Dhabi's Department of Health and RAFED with its attendance at LogiPharma 2025.

"Leveraging Abu Dhabi's strategic location at the gateway to the MENA region, we are offering advanced infrastructure with easy access to regional and global markets," said Stanislas Brun, chief cargo officer.

"We're not just offering airfreight; Etihad Cargo has deepened its focus on creating a smarter, more responsive cold chain for pharma customers worldwide, enabling an end-to-end, temperature-controlled ecosystem in collaboration with regulators, manufacturers and supply chain partners," he added.

Etihad Cargo noted that its collaboration with Abu Dhabi's Department of Health and RAFED, the region's leading healthcare procurement and logistics platform, is in line with the Abu Dhabi Economic Vision 2030.

The partnership is also a pivotal step in Abu Dhabi's ongoing efforts to become a leading healthcare destination in the global healthcare landscape.

Faisal Haji, division director Health Sector Innovation Department at the Department of Health (DoH) – Abu Dhabi, said its collaboration with Etihad Cargo and RAFED at LogiPharma 2025, reinforces DoH's commitment to reshaping the region's healthcare landscape.

"Our ambition is to cultivate a healthcare ecosystem where patients can benefit from the most advanced treatments and innovations in medical technology. By developing a dynamic hub for healthcare and life sciences distribution, we aim to improve patient outcomes and elevate the standard of care across the region," he said.

Samer Al Zamil, chief commercial officer at RAFED, added that the partnership is also building a "trusted supply chain" that supports not just the UAE but the broader region and global healthcare community. 

Etihad Cargo noted that its PharmaLife product, certified under IATA CEIV Pharma standards, facilitates the secure transport of temperature-sensitive pharmaceuticals, vaccines, and biologics using tracking, thermal mapping, and real-time monitoring systems.