Hikma Pharmaceuticals PLC (Hikma), a leading multinational pharmaceutical group, has signed a strategic Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with M42, a global health innovator powered by AI and technology, to drive advancements in colorectal cancer screening in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). The agreement, signed during Arab Health 2025, aims to enhance precision, prevention, and early detection in cancer care through cutting-edge genomics screening technology.
Under this collaboration, Hikma and M42 will work to expand access to Shield™, a non-invasive laboratory-developed test (LDT) by Guardant Health Inc., designed for colorectal cancer (CRC) screening. Shield™ is the first blood test approved by the US FDA as a primary screening option for CRC, positioning it alongside other recommended non-invasive screening methods. In partnership with Abu Dhabi Public Health Centre (ADPHC), M42 has already introduced Shield™ as part of the IFHAS comprehensive health screening programme, making it available at key healthcare facilities across Abu Dhabi, Al Ain, and the Al Dhafra region.
Leadership Insights
Mazen Darwazah, Executive Vice Chairman and President of MENA at Hikma, stated:
“This strategic partnership reflects our shared vision with M42 to harness innovation in healthcare and improve patient outcomes. By enhancing early disease detection and enabling precision medicine, we are strengthening oncology and preventive care across the region.”
Dr. Fahed Al Marzooqi, CEO of Integrated Health Solutions at M42, added:
“At M42, we are redefining healthcare by integrating AI and genomics to create proactive, technology-driven solutions. Our collaboration with Hikma aligns with Abu Dhabi’s vision to lead in next-generation screening and health innovation.”
Expanding Access to Precision Medicine
This partnership builds on Hikma’s exclusive agreement with Guardant Health Inc., which enables the commercialization of advanced liquid and tissue biopsy tests for cancer screening and genomic profiling across the Middle East and North Africa (MENA). The portfolio includes:
- Shield™ – for colorectal cancer screening and early detection
- Guardant Reveal™ – for minimal residual disease detection and recurrence monitoring
- Guardant360® & Guardant360 TissueNext™ – for comprehensive genomic profiling across all solid cancers
The introduction of Shield™ represents a transformative step in expanding precision and preventive healthcare across the region, improving adherence to screening and early detection initiatives.
About Hikma
Hikma has been improving access to high-quality medicines for over 45 years. Headquartered in the UK, the company operates across North America, MENA, and Europe, providing branded and generic medicines that support millions of patients worldwide. Learn more at www.hikma.com.
About M42
Headquartered in Abu Dhabi, M42 is a global leader in AI-driven healthcare solutions, specializing in genomics, biobanks, and predictive care. With over 480 facilities in 26 countries and 20,000+ employees, M42 integrates cutting-edge technology to transform traditional healthcare models. Its ecosystem includes Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi, Danat Al Emarat, Diaverum, and Imperial College London Diabetes Centre, among others.
For more information, visit www.m42.com.
