The UAE’s first national multiple sclerosis treatment protocol aims to standardise care delivery and improve access to emerging therapies across the Emirates, with special provisions for pregnancy and paediatric cases.
Treatment pathways
The National Multiple Sclerosis Society (NMSS) in the United Arab Emirates has published comprehensive treatment guidelines for multiple sclerosis (MS), marking the first standardised protocol for MS care in the nation. The guidelines, published in the Multiple Sclerosis and Related Disorders journal in January 2025, were developed through extensive analysis of global evidence while accounting for the unique characteristics of the UAE’s MS population and varying levels of health coverage.
Clinical implementation
The guidelines provide clinicians with detailed protocols for MS-modifying therapies and treatment selection criteria, with particular attention to managing care during pregnancy and lactation. They also address paediatric MS, expanding the scope of standardised care to younger patients. A key feature is the inclusion of emerging treatments such as stem cell therapy for cases where patients show inadequate response to conventional MS-modifying treatments.
Dr. Fatima Al Kaabi, Vice Chair of the NMSS, emphasised the evidence-based approach: “The MS treatment guidelines are based on the best global evidence currently available and bring a lot of hope for people newly diagnosed with MS and those living with the condition. These guidelines will enhance the effectiveness and sustainability of treatments by reducing side effects and improving the accuracy of prescriptions.”
Healthcare system integration
The development process involved collaboration with various UAE health authorities, resulting in integration with existing healthcare frameworks. Notable among these is the Dubai Health Authority’s Multiple Sclerosis Ejadah Program, which has incorporated the new guidelines into its treatment protocols. The guidelines were reviewed by leading neurologists across all Emirates to ensure comprehensive applicability throughout the UAE healthcare system.
Dr. Ahmed Shatila, Consultant Neurologist at Sheikh Shakhbout Medical City and Chair of the NMSS Medical Advisory Committee, who led the guidelines task force, highlighted the collaborative nature of the development process: “With the support of leading neurologists, our Medical Advisory Committee has worked tirelessly to ensure these guidelines reflect the latest global advancements in MS care.”
Insurance and access considerations
A significant aspect of the guidelines is their potential impact on insurance coverage. The protocol establishes evidence-based treatment sequences driven by clinical data rather than cost considerations, which may facilitate better access to emerging treatments and ensure more appropriate insurance coverage for MS patients.
Concurrent with the guidelines’ publication, the NMSS has established the UAE’s first MS Helpline. Operating daily from 10am to 10pm, the service provides resources, referrals, and guidance on accessing MS specialist clinics. The helpline can be reached at 800 677.
The NMSS, established in 2022 under the Ministry of Community Empowerment, continues to work towards improving MS care through education, advocacy, and research advancement. The society maintains partnerships with national medical institutions and global organisations to build a comprehensive support network for the MS community in the UAE.
