UAE Diabetes Drug Market Overview, 2030

The diabetes drug market in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) is experiencing significant growth driven by a high prevalence of diabetes, rising healthcare expenditures, and government-backed healthcare reforms. The per capita expenditure on diabetes management is also among the highest in the Middle East, covering not only pharmaceutical drugs but also advanced monitoring devices, diagnostics, and consultations. The most in-demand drugs in the UAE include GLP-1 receptor agonists and DPP-4 inhibitors, thanks to their effectiveness in both glycemic control and weight management. Innovations are accelerating in the country with the introduction of novel therapies like oral semaglutide and dual agonists like tirzepatide, supported by expanding insurance coverage. The UAE is also pioneering in the adoption of digital health technologies for diabetes, including AI-powered apps, remote monitoring tools, and smart insulin pumps. In 2023, Abu Dhabi began offering advanced devices such as the Medtronic MiniMed 780G artificial pancreas system, and in 2024, new tubeless insulin pumps like EOFlow’s EOPatch were launched. These innovations align with the UAE’s national vision to integrate AI and telemedicine into chronic disease management. From a regulatory perspective, the creation of the Emirates Drug Corporation has streamlined drug approvals and encouraged local manufacturing, while new legislation such as Federal Decree-Law No. 38 (2025) accelerates access to cutting-edge treatments. Local pharmaceutical companies like Julphar are actively producing insulin and exporting regionally, reducing reliance on imports. Additionally, government initiatives like the National Diabetes Screening Program and partnerships with global health institutions have enhanced early detection and treatment. Mandatory health insurance in key emirates ensures widespread coverage and reduces out-of-pocket costs, thus boosting access to modern diabetes care.

According to the research report ""UAE Diabetes Drug Market Overview, 2030,"" published by Bonafide Research, the UAE Diabetes Drug market is anticipated to grow at more than 6.50% CAGR from 2025 to 2030. The rising number of expatriates, who constitute nearly 88% of the total population, many of whom are predisposed to diabetes due to genetic and lifestyle factors, has also intensified the burden on the healthcare system. This increasing demand is pushing the pharmaceutical industry to expand its product offerings, leading to a noticeable growth in the demand for oral antidiabetics, fixed-dose combinations, long-acting insulins, and incretin-based therapies like GLP-1 receptor agonists. Julphar announced that it had entered into a partnership with the Abu Dhabi Stem Cell Center (ADSCC) to develop stem cell-based therapies for diabetes and other chronic diseases. The partnership aims to leverage Julphar's expertise in drug development and ADSCC's stem cell research capabilities to develop new treatments for diabetes. In 2024, the UAE launched AI-driven platforms that use predictive analytics for early diagnosis and patient engagement, which is significantly enhancing drug adherence and long-term disease control. On the supply side, the pharmaceutical industry is witnessing significant growth through public-private partnerships and government incentives aimed at boosting domestic drug production. Local manufacturers like Julphar and Neopharma are scaling up production of insulin and oral antidiabetic drugs, while international giants like Novo Nordisk and Sanofi are strengthening their footprint through distribution deals and regional partnerships. The increased local manufacturing not only reduces the dependency on imports but also ensures supply chain stability and price competitiveness. The regulatory landscape is also evolving to support faster drug approvals and post-market surveillance, ensuring high safety and efficacy standards. Additionally, public awareness campaigns such as the ""Beat Diabetes Walk"" and national screening days are improving early diagnosis, thereby driving up the demand for medication among newly diagnosed patients.

The UAE government has made insulin widely accessible through its public healthcare system and has adopted strategies to improve insulin adherence through smart delivery pens and educational programs. GLP-1 receptor agonists, which mimic incretin hormones to stimulate insulin secretion and suppress glucagon release, are increasingly used due to their dual benefits of glucose control and weight reduction particularly valuable in a region with high obesity rates. Drugs like liraglutide and semaglutide are gaining traction, especially in private clinics and among the younger diabetic population concerned about weight management. DPP-4 inhibitors (e.g., sitagliptin, linagliptin), known for their oral administration and fewer side effects, have seen increasing usage for patients with early-stage Type 2 diabetes. These are popular in both public and private sectors due to their compatibility with elderly patients and those at risk for hypoglycemia. SGLT2 inhibitors, such as dapagliflozin and empagliflozin, have rapidly gained market share due to their cardiovascular and renal benefits, which align with the region's high prevalence of comorbidities like heart disease and hypertension. The UAE has promoted their adoption through insurance coverage and inclusion in clinical guidelines. The ""Others"" category especially metformin, which is often the first-line treatment for Type 2 diabetes continues to see high volume consumption due to its low cost, effectiveness, and availability across retail and hospital pharmacies. Sulfonylureas also remain relevant, though their market share is gradually declining due to the rising preference for newer, safer alternatives. Combination therapies are growing in demand to improve patient compliance, particularly fixed-dose combinations involving DPP-4 inhibitors and metformin.

Type 1 diabetes, an autoimmune condition typically diagnosed in children and young adults, constitutes a smaller proportion of total diabetes cases in the UAE but demands lifelong insulin therapy. This segment heavily relies on rapid-acting, long-acting, and mixed insulin formulations, along with modern insulin delivery devices such as insulin pumps and smart pens. The UAE government, under its advanced healthcare initiatives, ensures widespread access to insulin through public hospitals and subsidized programs. Specialized diabetes clinics and pediatric endocrinology centers are equipped to handle Type 1 cases with continuous glucose monitoring systems (CGMs) and individualized treatment plans. Patients with early-stage Type 2 diabetes typically start with metformin, widely available and recommended as a first-line treatment. As the disease progresses or if comorbid conditions such as cardiovascular or renal disease are present, physicians in the UAE increasingly prescribe SGLT2 inhibitors and GLP-1 receptor agonists due to their added health benefits beyond glucose control. Moreover, combination therapies are on the rise to simplify treatment regimens and enhance patient adherence. Type 2 diabetes management in the UAE is also strongly supported by national initiatives like the ""Weqaya"" program and mobile health apps promoting lifestyle changes and regular screening. Public-private partnerships and a growing network of endocrinologists further contribute to efficient disease management.

Oral antidiabetic drugs are in high demand as they are suitable for the growing elderly and overweight population, driven by sedentary lifestyles and high sugar intake in the region. According to the International Diabetes Federation (IDF), around 19% of the UAE’s adult population is living with diabetes, making it one of the highest prevalence rates globally, thereby boosting the demand for oral drugs. Subcutaneous administration, primarily used for insulin and GLP-1 receptor agonists, is critical for patients with type 1 diabetes and for advanced cases of type 2 diabetes where oral drugs no longer suffice. The demand for subcutaneous drugs is surging due to the rising adoption of insulin pens, prefilled syringes, and continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) devices, which simplify insulin delivery and improve patient compliance. The UAE government has actively promoted awareness and subsidized programs for insulin therapy, especially through public hospitals. Additionally, GLP-1 receptor agonists such as liraglutide and semaglutide are gaining traction due to their dual benefit of glycemic control and weight loss, which aligns with the UAE’s high obesity burden. Intravenous administration, though less common in outpatient diabetes care, is crucial in hospital settings for acute and emergency diabetes management, such as in cases of diabetic ketoacidosis or hyperosmolar hyperglycemic states. These are administered in critical care units and emergency departments, mainly in tertiary hospitals. The growing investments in healthcare infrastructure across the UAE, particularly in Dubai and Abu Dhabi, have contributed to improved access to such advanced care. Moreover, with the influx of medical tourism and the country's positioning as a healthcare hub, demand for high-end intravenous diabetic care is gradually increasing.

Hospital pharmacies are a dominant distribution channel in the UAE, especially for patients requiring intensive and continuous care, such as those with Type 1 diabetes or complications arising from poorly managed Type 2 diabetes. Given the UAE's investment in a robust healthcare infrastructure, particularly in cities like Abu Dhabi and Dubai, most public and private hospitals are equipped with well-organized pharmacy units. These pharmacies primarily dispense insulin, GLP-1 receptor agonists, and combination therapies that require prescriptions and professional oversight. Demand for hospital pharmacy services remains high due to the government’s health insurance coverage schemes, such as the Abu Dhabi Thiqa program and the Dubai Health Authority's Enaya, which cover chronic disease management, including diabetes treatment. Moreover, hospitals often participate in national screening and follow-up programs, further enhancing the relevance of hospital pharmacies in managing diabetes. Retail pharmacies, which include chains like Aster Pharmacy, Life Pharmacy, and BinSina, are highly popular among patients with Type 2 diabetes that requires ongoing but less intensive care. These outlets typically stock a wide variety of oral medications like metformin, DPP-4 inhibitors, and SGLT2 inhibitors, which are commonly used in initial and maintenance therapy for Type 2 diabetics. With their widespread presence in malls, neighborhoods, and commercial areas, retail pharmacies serve as convenient points for recurring purchases. Online pharmacies are gaining rapid traction, accelerated by digital health transformation policies and the behavioral shifts driven by the COVID-19 pandemic. Platforms such as 800 Pharmacy and online extensions of established retail chains offer doorstep delivery of diabetes drugs, digital prescriptions, and remote consultations. Online channels are especially preferred by tech-savvy younger patients and those managing diabetes discreetly. With government support for telemedicine and e-prescription initiatives, this segment is expected to grow, particularly in Dubai and Sharjah.

Considered in this report
• Historic Year: 2019
• Base year: 2024
• Estimated year: 2025
• Forecast year: 2030

Aspects covered in this report
• Diabetic Drug Market with its value and forecast along with its segments
• Various drivers and challenges
• On-going trends and developments
• Top profiled companies
• Strategic recommendation

By Drug Class
• Insulin
• GLP-1 Receptor Agonists
• DPP-4 Inhibitors
• SGLT2 Inhibitors
• Others (metformin, sulfonylureas, and combination therapies)

By Diabetes
• Type-1
• Type-2

By Route of Administration
• Oral
• Subcutaneous
• Intravenous

By Distribution Channel
• Hospital Pharmacies
• Retail pharmacies
• Online Pharmacies Show more