ADQ Launches Arcera: Driving Healthcare Evolution
ADQ, the prominent Abu Dhabi-based investment and holding company, has introduced Arcera, a new global holding company headquartered in Abu Dhabi, UAE, dedicated to the life sciences sector. Arcera aims to pioneer advancements in healthcare, offering innovative products to enhance human life quality and longevity.
With the formation of Arcera, ADQ consolidates its existing life sciences assets, creating a powerhouse aligned with Abu Dhabi’s 2030 Healthcare Life Sciences Vision. This move also supports the UAE’s ambition to excel in science and technology on the global stage.
Arcera incorporates ADQ’s holdings in three key companies:
Acino International (Acino), a renowned pharmaceutical company with a rich history dating back to 1836. Acino operates manufacturing facilities in five countries and commercial operations across four continents, catering to a wide range of medical needs worldwide.
Birgi Mefar Group (BMG), one of the largest sterile production service providers in Türkiye, specializing in sterile injectables, glass packaging, and pharmaceutical distribution services.
Amoun Pharmaceutical Company (Amoun), a prominent pharmaceutical manufacturer based in Egypt, known for its diverse portfolio of human pharmaceutical and animal health products.
With over 6,500 employees and a presence in more than 90 countries, Arcera is poised to introduce groundbreaking solutions for various health conditions. The company offers 2,000 branded medicines across therapeutic areas such as neurology, gastroenterology, cardiovascular health, pain relief, rheumatology, and anti-infectives.
Isabel Afonso serves as Chief Executive Officer of Arcera. She brings extensive experience in the pharmaceutical sector to this role as well as proven expertise in transformation and global expansion, acquired through 18 years of leadership in a top-tier pharmaceutical company and an additional eight years of management roles in other industries, including MedTech.
Hamad Al Hammadi, Deputy Chief Executive Officer of ADQ, said: “By consolidating our life sciences companies under one umbrella, Arcera signifies a strategic evolution, unlocking substantial portfolio value and reinforcing our commitment to innovation, globalization and digitization, which are key growth levers in this industry. As a unified force, Arcera is positioned to be a significant contributor to Abu Dhabi’s life sciences sector, reflecting our unwavering dedication to improving patient outcomes through groundbreaking solutions while aligning with the Emirate’s diversification goals.”
Isabel Afonso, continued: “The growing need for high quality and effective medicines lends tremendous importance to building a global life sciences company like Arcera. Arcera enables its businesses to accelerate growth plans and enhance integration, as well as further expand and develop capabilities. We are pursuing bold ambitions and work towards becoming a leading global life sciences company that fosters longer and healthier lives while creating value. It is a great honour to be trusted to lead Arcera.”
Arcera’s ambitious growth plans include doubling its revenue over the next five years through strategic acquisitions and global partnerships. By positioning itself as a preferred partner for academic institutions and pharmaceutical firms, Arcera aims to drive significant advancements in healthcare, addressing regional and global needs.
Leveraging advanced technologies and research capabilities, Arcera is committed to fostering innovation and attracting top talent to Abu Dhabi. The company prioritizes organic growth, expanding its product portfolio and creating value through centralized capabilities like Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) practices and digital innovation.
The name “Arcera” symbolizes progress and longevity, reflecting the company’s vision to lead the life sciences industry globally.
Bashar AlRousan (pictured) is Chief Legal and Compliance Officer at ADQ and Secretary to the Board of Directors and its Executive Committee.