About habr

Building Healthcare Success in the UAE

HABR is a U.S. based healthcare advisory firm operating in the UAE, supporting international healthcare companies, investors, and professionals in establishing and growing their presence in the region. With over 20 years of experience and a portfolio of more than 500 successful projects, HABR provides end-to-end solutions that combine regulatory expertise, strategic planning, and hands-on execution.
Hbar HEIDI-ATRACH
OUR STORY
Founded by Heidi Atrach, HABR was created to simplify the complexities of the healthcare sector in the UAE and provide clients with a trusted partner who understands both the regulatory environment and the realities of doing business in the region.

Through years of experience, HABR has built strong relationships with regulatory authorities, industry leaders, and key stakeholders enabling faster processes, better alignment, and stronger outcomes for clients.
what we do
At HABR, we don’t just provide services — we deliver clarity, execute with precision, and open doors so our clients can achieve measurable results with confidence.

HABR is the strategic partner that healthcare companies, investors, and medical professionals rely on to enter, operate, and scale successfully in the UAE and the wider region. We make complex healthcare markets simple, reduce risk, and accelerate growth by providing end-to-end expertise, execution, and connections.

Our support spans the full lifecycle of a healthcare business:

Market Entry Strategy & Feasibility

Defining opportunities and positioning ventures for success.

Operational & Regulatory Readiness

Licensing, approvals, and compliance with UAE authorities.

Facility Development & Manufacturing Support

From design and setup to GMP compliance and technology transfer.

Import, Distribution & Logistics

Enabling companies to reach the market even without local infrastructure.  Strategic Growth & Partnerships, facilitating collaborations, market access, and regional expansion.

Business Setup & Execution

We manage the full setup and execution of your business in the UAE, from entity formation and licensing to operational launch, ensuring a smooth, compliant, and efficient market entry.

Strategic Growth & Partnerships

We help you unlock growth opportunities by connecting you with key partners, enabling market access, and building strategic collaborations that support long-term expansion.

At HABR, we don’t just provide services — we deliver clarity, execute with precision, and open doors so our clients can achieve measurable results with confidence.


OUR Strength
In-depth understanding of UAE healthcare regulations.
Proven track record across diverse healthcare sectors.
Strong relationships with key decision-makers.
Execution-focused, hands-on support.
Ability to connect clients with real business opportunities.
OUR vision

To be the trusted partner for healthcare companies and professionals seeking to establish, grow, and succeed in the UAE and across the region.

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HABR
OUR TEAM

The Minds Behind HABR

Driven by experience and excellence, our team works closely with clients to navigate the complexities of the UAE healthcare sector—turning challenges into opportunities for growth.
Hbar HEIDI-ATRACH

Heidi Atrach

Founder
Dr. Zuhdi

Dr. Zuhdi Khalil Sawalhi

Managing Partner
Dr. Yasser

Dr. Yasser Malas

Managing Partner
Leslie Orr Senior Partner

Leslie Orr

Senior Partner
Hbar Adel-Jazane

Adel Jazane

Senior Executive Business Developer

At HABR, we believe success in healthcare requires more than expertise it requires the right strategy, the right connections, and the ability to execute 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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