For many families, the opportunity to preserve stem cells from umbilical cord blood has been a privilege reserved for those who could afford it. Now, the Abu Dhabi Biobank has significantly reduced this financial barrier, slashing the cost of private cord blood banking to around Dh7,500—half of its previous price.
By partnering with M42’s Danat Al Emarat Women’s and Children Hospital, Corniche Hospital, and Kanad Hospital, the Abu Dhabi Biobank is ensuring more families can store their newborns’ stem cells in a state-of-the-art facility in Masdar City. These preserved stem cells hold immense potential, capable of treating conditions such as leukemia, multiple sclerosis, thalassemia, and immune deficiencies.
“Through efficiencies, we’ve managed to reduce our costs to Dh7,500 for a base package, which is simply collection and storage. It provides that insurance policy. Should you or somebody in your family need them, they’re cryopreserved and available for transplant,” said Paul Downey, General Manager of Abu Dhabi Biobank.
The procedure is quick, painless, and performed immediately after birth. Blood from the umbilical cord—often discarded as medical waste—is collected and stored at -196°C, ensuring long-term preservation. These hematopoietic stem cells can develop into various blood and immune system cells, playing a crucial role in regenerative medicine.
Globally, more than 60,000 stem cell transplants have been performed using umbilical cord blood, and demand for such life-saving treatments is growing.
While stem cell banking remains a costly service, the growing demand and advancements in technology could lead to further price reductions in the future. For now, Abu Dhabi’s initiative marks a significant step toward making these cutting-edge treatments available to a wider population.
