Sheikh Hamdan Meets Colossal Biosciences to Boost De-Extinction

Dubai, October 8 — In a landmark meeting that highlights Dubai’s growing role as a global hub for future-driven science, His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence of the UAE, and Chairman of The Executive Council of Dubai, held talks today with Ben Lamm, Co-Founder and CEO of Colossal Biosciences, the world’s first biotechnology company dedicated to bringing extinct species back to life.

The meeting, held in Dubai, focused on the city’s commitment to supporting transformative scientific ventures that combine cutting-edge biotechnology with environmental sustainability. Sheikh Hamdan underlined Dubai’s vision of building a future where innovation and nature conservation go hand in hand, stressing that advances in science and technology are key pillars for shaping a sustainable world.

Stay informed with the latest news. Follow DXB News Network on WhatsApp Channel

Colossal Biosciences, based in Dallas, has earned global recognition for its pioneering work in species de-extinction. The company uses advanced genetic engineering techniques to protect endangered species and revive those that disappeared millennia ago. In a groundbreaking achievement in October 2024, the company successfully revived the dire wolf, a species that vanished around 10,000 years ago. Its current projects include efforts to bring back the woolly mammoth, dodo, and Tasmanian tiger, with the aim of restoring ecological balance and biodiversity.

During the discussions, Sheikh Hamdan was briefed on the company’s extensive index of species identified for de-extinction and the potential applications of these efforts in environmental preservation and ecosystem restoration. He reaffirmed that Dubai welcomes collaborations with global innovators to accelerate discoveries that benefit both humanity and the planet.

The meeting was also attended by senior UAE officials, including H.E. Omar Sultan Al Olama, Minister of State for Artificial Intelligence, Digital Economy, and Remote Work Applications and Director General of the Dubai Crown Prince’s Office; H.E. Helal Saeed Almarri, Director General of Dubai’s Department of Economy and Tourism; and H.E. Khalfan Belhoul, CEO of Dubai Future Foundation.

Dubai’s engagement with Colossal Biosciences reflects the emirate’s broader strategy to position itself as a leading center for advanced sciences, biotechnology, and future-oriented innovation. By supporting projects that combine genetics, conservation, and technology, Dubai aims to contribute to global efforts to safeguard biodiversity and adapt to environmental challenges.

This high-level meeting underscores Dubai’s readiness to collaborate with top scientific pioneers and demonstrates the UAE’s resolve to place sustainable innovation at the heart of its progress.