Physical climate risks constitute one of the most significant and complex threats to human wellbeing, economic stability, and infrastructure resilience in the coming decades. For the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries —Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates—these risks are projected to increase in severity and frequency. Recent events, such as the April 2024 floods across the Arabian Peninsula, show that extreme weather events are already a reality. Without effective prevention and response measures, these events threaten lives, livelihoods and ecosystems and impose significant economic losses and operational disruptions.

While the GCC countries have actively engaged in international climate efforts and are increasingly addressing climate change transition risks through economic diversification and low-carbon strategies, the physical dimensions of climate-related risk remain comparatively underexamined. This policy report fills that informational gap by providing a targeted analysis of climate-related physical risks in the GCC. It aims to support policymakers in identifying strategic responses to enhance climate resilience, with an emphasis on policy and financing options. Drawing on literature review and expert interviews, the report assesses current vulnerabilities, adaptation measures and finance options, and offers practical recommendations to strengthen adaptation across the region.
 

Multiple Sclerosis (MS) represents a significant neurological health challenge affecting thousands of patients across the UAE, Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), and Eastern Mediterranean Region (EMR). Access to Disease-Modifying Therapies (DMTs), which are crucial for managing MS progression and improving patient outcomes, remains inconsistent across geographic and socioeconomic lines. This policy dialogue, organized by the Mohammed bin Rashid School of Government in collaboration with regional health authorities and patient advocacy groups, examined the multifaceted barriers to DMT access and explored strategic solutions for creating equitable healthcare delivery models.
The dialogue brought together neurologists, healthcare administrators, insurance representatives, patient advocates, and policymakers from across the UAE, GCC states, and the broader EMR region to examine current access patterns, identify systemic barriers, and develop targeted interventions. Participants emphasized the critical need for coordinated regional approaches that address geographic disparities, insurance coverage gaps, and socioeconomic inequalities while leveraging technological innovations and cross-border collaboration.
Key findings reveal significant disparities in DMT access between urban and rural areas, with patients in remote emirates and regions facing substantial barriers, including limited specialist availability, transportation challenges, and inadequate insurance coverage for high-cost therapies. The dialogue concluded with a consensus that transforming MS care requires shifting from fragmented, location-dependent services toward integrated, patient-centered models supported by telemedicine capabilities, standardized treatment protocols, and enhanced regional cooperation.
 

Access to disease-modifying therapies (DMTs) for Multiple Sclerosis represents a critical healthcare equity challenge in the UAE, where geographic dispersion, socioeconomic variations, and healthcare infrastructure differences create significant barriers to optimal patient care. This policy dialogue, organized by the Mohammed bin Rashid School of Government (MBRSG) in collaboration with the Dubai Health Authority and key healthcare stakeholders, examined how the UAE can systematically address disparities in DMT access across all seven emirates.
The dialogue brought together neurologists, healthcare administrators, insurance representatives, patient advocates, and policy makers to explore the multifaceted nature of MS care delivery, current implementation gaps, and strategic opportunities for improvement. Participants emphasized the need for a comprehensive approach that integrates geographic accessibility, socioeconomic considerations, insurance coverage optimization, and cross-emirate coordination.
Key findings indicate that, while the UAE has made significant investments in specialized neurological care, substantial disparities remain in access to DMT between urban centers, such as Dubai and Abu Dhabi, and more remote areas in the Northern Emirates. Insurance coverage inconsistencies, limited specialist availability outside major cities, and transportation barriers compound these challenges. The dialogue concluded with a consensus that transforming DMT accessibility requires coordinated policy intervention, enhanced infrastructure development, and innovative service delivery models supported by robust data analytics and cross-emirate collaboration.
 

Workplace wellbeing has emerged as a critical factor in organizational success, particularly in the wake of increasing global mental health concerns affecting workforce productivity and retention. This policy dialogue, organized by Mohammed bin Rashid School of Government (MBRSG) in collaboration with Noor Corporate Health Solutions and MediSense Clinic, explored how UAE organizations can transform employee well-being from a cost center into a measurable strategic asset.

The dialogue brought together experts from both public and private sectors to examine the multifaceted nature of workplace wellbeing, current implementation challenges, and future opportunities. Participants emphasized the need for a comprehensive approach that integrates physical and mental health strategies, utilizes data analytics for measuring impact, and fosters collaboration across sectors.

Key findings indicate that while many UAE organizations recognize the importance of wellbeing initiatives, challenges remain in measuring their effectiveness, securing adequate insurance coverage for mental health, and addressing cultural stigma. The dialogue concluded with a consensus that transforming workplace wellbeing requires a shift from compliance-focused approaches to strategic investment models supported by robust metrics and leadership commitment.