Hong Kong-based startup Insilico Medicine has announced the opening of the Insilico Medicine Generative Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Quantum Computing Research and Development Centre in Abu Dhabi, the region’s largest AI-powered biotechnology research centre. 

Located in the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) headquarters in Masdar City, Abu Dhabi’s flagship sustainable urban development, the research and development (R&D) hub will comprise global talent in artificial intelligence and software development dedicated to expanding the capabilities of Insilico’s end-to-end AI-driven drug discovery platform, Pharma.AI, exploring ageing research and sustainable chemistry, and supporting the digital transformation of healthcare in the region.

“The prime location, strong and stable economy, developed infrastructure, and highly educated talent make Abu Dhabi an emerging hub that attracts high-tech companies from around the world. We are excited to be a part of this,” said Alex Aliper, Ph.D., President of Insilico, who will serve as the regional hub’s general manager. “We plan to hire locally and work closely with biotech companies and academic partners to license Insilico’s proprietary software and collaborate on joint research projects to facilitate the digital transformation of the local healthcare industry.”

Insilico has made steady inroads into the Middle East. On January 31, 2023, the company announced that it will receive support from the Abu Dhabi Investment Office (ADIO) to establish its regional HQ in Abu Dhabi focused on R&D for its AI platform.