Trusted expertise. Proven execution. Powerful connections.

Guiding Healthcare Businesses to Establish, Scale, and Lead in the UAE

HABR supports international healthcare companies, investors, and medical professionals in navigating the UAE market with confidence from regulatory approvals to full operational success and regional expansion.
About Habr
HABR is a U.S.-based healthcare advisory firm operating in the UAE, providing end-to-end business solutions for healthcare companies and professionals entering and expanding within the region.
With over 20 years of experience and a track record of supporting more than 500 companies, HABR combines regulatory expertise, strategic insight, and strong local connections to deliver efficient and results-driven outcomes.

Founded by Heidi Atrach, HABR is built on long-standing relationships, deep market knowledge, and a hands-on approach to business success.
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Our Approach

We don’t just advise we guide, execute, and connect.

At HABR, we take a structured and hands-on approach to ensure every healthcare project is strategically aligned, fully compliant, and positioned for long-term success.
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Strategic Clarity

We define the right direction by aligning your objectives with market realities, regulatory requirements, and regional growth opportunities.

Structured Execution

We translate strategy into action — managing business setup, licensing, and operational readiness with precision and efficiency.

Regulatory Confidence

We navigate complex healthcare regulations to ensure full compliance with UAE authorities, minimizing risk and avoiding delays.

Growth & Expansion

We support long-term success through strategic planning, partnerships, and access to key decision-makers across the UAE and GCC.
Our Services

We provide integrated, end-to-end solutions for healthcare companies, investors, and professionals, designed to create clarity, reduce risk, and accelerate growth.

Market Entry Strategy & Feasibility
Strategy Drafting

Market Entry Strategy & Feasibility

We develop clear business plans, project proposals, and strategic materials to support sustainable growth and successful expansion.
Operational & Regulatory Readiness
Legal Advisory

Operational & Regulatory Readiness

Our team manages legal documentation and compliance requirements, ensuring your business meets all regulatory standards with ease.
Facility Development & Manufacturing Support
Local Connections & Partnerships

Facility Development & Manufacturing Support

Access a strong network of local CEOs, decision-makers, and partners to accelerate market entry and business growth.
Importation & FDA Compliance
Distritution

Import, Distribution & Logistics

We handle authority registrations and approvals in the UAE and USA, ensuring a smooth and efficient approval process.
Strategic Growth & Partnerships
Growth Partnerships

Strategic Growth & Partnerships

We facilitate access to key stakeholders, partners, and decision-makers — creating meaningful opportunities for growth and regional expansion.
Business Setup & Execution
Market Entry

Business Setup & Execution

We manage the complete setup process from structuring to operational readiness delivering a fully compliant and efficiently executed market entry.
Expand with Confidence

Strategic support to grow your business in the UAE and the USA.

Interested in expanding your business in the UAE? Learn more about the opportunities, market trends, and regulatory environment in the UAE to better understand the potential for your business.
Learn more about UAE
About the UAE
About the USA
Contemplating business growth in the USA? Explore our resources to learn more about the U.S. market, including key industries, business regulations, and cultural insights to help you make informed decisions for your business.
Learn more about USA
Why Clients Choose habr
  • Deep expertise in UAE regulatory frameworks
  • Strong network across government and private sectors
  • End-to-end execution from strategy to implementation
  • Dedicated support for both companies and healthcare professionals
20+
Years of experience in the healthcare sector
500+
Healthcare Companies successfully supported

Beyond Advisory We Open Doors

HABR connects clients with the right partners, stakeholders, and decision-makers to accelerate growth and unlock real opportunities in the UAE and across the region.
Powering International Expansion

Businesses That Trust HABR

We partner with forward-thinking companies to simplify market entry, streamline operations, and unlock growth opportunities in the UAE and United States.
Expand with Confidence

Ready to get started?

Start Your Healthcare Journey in the UAE with Confidence
Dr. Zuhdi

Dr. Zuhdi Khalil Sawalhi is a globally recognized pharmaceutical executive with nearly five decades of leadership experience across pharmaceutical manufacturing, GMP engineering, quality systems, regulatory compliance, and corporate management.

Throughout his career, he has led the design, construction, validation, and commissioning of GMP-compliant pharmaceutical facilities across the Middle East and Europe, meeting WHO, EU-GMP, US FDA, and GCC regulatory standards.

From 2013 to 2024, Dr. Zuhdi served as Chief Executive Officer of ADCAN Pharma in Abu Dhabi, where he played a key role in developing a modern pharmaceutical manufacturing facility aligned with international regulatory expectations and future oncology production requirements.

He is also the Founder and CEO of several pharmaceutical consultancy and project management organizations across the UAE, Malta, and Palestine. As an authorized USAID advisor, he has supported pharmaceutical companies worldwide in plant design, technology transfer, validation, regulatory compliance, and operational excellence.

Dr. Zuhdi is widely respected for his technical expertise, strategic vision, and strong commitment to quality in the pharmaceutical industry.

Dr. Zuhdi Khalil Sawalhi

Pharmaceutical Manufacturing, GMP Engineering & Regulatory Compliance Expert
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Dr. Yasser

Dr. Yasser Malas is a highly experienced pharmaceutical industry professional with more than 38 years of expertise in sales, marketing, export management, commercial strategy, and business development across the Middle East and North Africa.

Throughout his career, he has played a key role in regional market expansion, strategic partnership development, and commercial operations for leading pharmaceutical organizations. His strong industry knowledge, extensive regional network, and deep understanding of pharmaceutical markets have positioned him as a trusted advisor and business partner for companies seeking growth opportunities in the MENA region.

As General Manager of MALAS Healthcare FZ-LLC in Dubai, Dr. Yasser leads business development initiatives and supports healthcare and pharmaceutical companies in expanding their presence across regional markets. His long-standing experience and strategic insight add significant value to organizations looking to enter, grow, or strengthen their operations in the healthcare sector.

Dr. Yasser Malas

General Manager | Pharmaceutical Business Development & Commercial Strategy
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Adel-Jazane

Highly driven Business Administration Specialist, Adel plays a key role in supporting HABR’s operational efficiency and strategic growth. With a strong background in business management, he brings valuable experience in project management, process optimization, financial planning, and team coordination.

 

Adel’s expertise has contributed to streamlining internal operations and implementing effective solutions that enhance productivity and performance. His ability to manage complex tasks and support organizational goals makes him an essential part of the team’s continued success.

Fluent in Spanish, highly proficient in English, and skilled in Arabic, Adel enables effective communication across diverse clients, partners, and stakeholders. His multilingual capabilities support HABR’s global presence and help strengthen relationships across different markets.

Known for his leadership, problem-solving skills, and commitment to excellence, Adel consistently delivers results while driving continuous improvement. His dedication and professionalism make him a valuable asset in achieving HABR’s vision for growth and innovation.

Adel Jazane

Senior Executive Business Developer
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Leslie Orr

Highly experienced global real estate professional with over a decade of leadership across international markets, Leslie Orr has managed teams spanning more than 20 countries. Her expertise includes portfolio optimization, lease negotiations, asset disposal strategies, and site acquisitions for major multinational organizations.

Leslie spent 14 years based in Dubai, where she held senior leadership roles including Head of Corporate Real Estate for the U.S. operations of an international financial institution. Throughout her career, she has worked with leading firms such as CBRE, Standard Chartered Bank, Core Savills, and Engel & Völkers, gaining extensive experience across both corporate and brokerage environments.

She holds a BA in Economics from Wells College, along with multiple professional certifications and licenses including Virginia and Dubai Real Estate Licenses, GMS-T Certification, and NCREA Certification. Her background has enabled her to lead large-scale real estate initiatives across Africa, the Middle East, and Pakistan.

Leslie is known for her ability to lead high-performing teams, drive strategic real estate decisions, and unlock value across portfolios. She has also trained professionals globally in lease negotiation, reporting systems, and real estate best practices, contributing to the growth and development of industry talent worldwide.

Leslie Orr

Senior Partner
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H.E-Engineer-Ali

Highly accomplished executive with over three decades of experience across government and international sectors, H.E. Engineer Ali bin Towaih AlSuwaidi has held key leadership roles in energy, maritime, investment, and sustainability industries. Throughout his career, he has worked with government entities, economic authorities, and global organizations, building extensive expertise in operations, business development, and strategic leadership.

Ali bin Towaih AlSuwaidi holds a Bachelor of Science in Electrical and Electronics Engineering from the Wentworth Institute of Technology (WIT) in Boston, graduating with High Honor in 1992. He began his career in the energy sector before progressing into senior roles at Dolphin Energy and later transitioning into the investment sector as Executive Director at TECOM Group, where he contributed to the development of sustainable and renewable energy initiatives.

He has held senior leadership positions including Vice President at Drydocks World and General Manager of Dubai Maritime City, and later served as Director General at AFZ. His experience spans multiple sectors including energy, logistics, construction, maritime, and business development, supported by his strong professional network and industry reputation.

Known for his leadership, strategic vision, and ability to drive growth, he has supported the development of industries and organizations across the region. His contributions and achievements have been recognized through multiple awards, reflecting his commitment to excellence and impactful leadership.

H.E Engineer Ali bin Towaih AlSuwaidi

Managing Partner
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HEIDI-ATRACH
Highly motivated individual with over a decade of experience across a myriad of different industries. As a Business Development Manager for Dubai Science Park (DSP), she was involved in the registration and establishment of companies across Healthcare, Energy and Environment, and Oil & Gas industries.
Heidi Atrach’ experience has equipped her with the knowledge necessary to understand the business landscape in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and the Middle Eastern and North African (MENA) regional market. Her time with DSP has allowed her to consult multiple companies on how to start up their businesses in the UAE and to solve all bureaucratic issues.As the founder of Heidi Atrach Business Relations, it is her top priority to ensure customer satisfaction as well as to provide clients with the social capital necessary to succeed in the UAE/US. As a proud resident of the UAE for over 2 decades, along with her decade worth of experience, she can help your company find a foothold in the MENA market in the beautiful country of the UAE!

Heidi Atrach

Founder & Managing Partner
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