(MENAFN- Mid-East Info) Dubai, October, 2025 – Abbott, a global healthcare leader, in collaboration with venture capital company Plug and Play Abu Dhabi, has named NAWAT Health the winner of its Innovate4Health Challenge. Designed to address three critical healthcare gaps in the Middle East ─ menopause awareness, living with vertigo, and medical misinformation - the Challenge called on regional start-ups to deliver innovative, scalable solutions that align with Abbott's mission of helping people live healthier, fuller lives.


NAWAT Health, a start-up founded in 2023 by public health expert Noor Jaber, stood out for its groundbreaking approach to supporting women's health across all life stages with a particular focus on menopause, a life stage too often underserved and underdiscussed in the Arab world. NAWAT Health created a platform that offers culturally sensitive digital resources tailored to the unique needs of women across the region, empowering them to navigate this transition with confidence. “At Abbott, we believe in unlocking the potential of local innovations that address pressing health challenges,” said Mazen Bachir, divisional vice president of Abbott's medicines business in the Middle East, North Africa, and Pakistan.“The Innovate4Health Challenge is a true reflection of what Abbott stands for, delivering tech-driven solutions that help people access better care and live healthier lives.” Menopause is a natural life stage experienced by approximately 500 million women globally each year.1 Hormonal changes leading up to menopause can trigger a range of challenging physical and mental symptoms.2 Research shows that these symptoms can deeply affect a woman's daily life activities, career, relationships, and overall well-being. 3,4 Unfortunately, social stigma and a lack of information mean half of women don't seek medical help for menopause symptoms.4 In the United Arab Emirates, only 17% of women felt they had good knowledge of menopause, while in Saudi Arabia, 56% of women reported feeling ill-informed about this phase and its symptoms.5,6 Recognizing this gap, the NAWAT Health platform was designed with a localized, culturally relevant approach, ensuring the information resonates with Arab audiences and respects their unique cultural contexts. From educational videos to expert Q&A forums, the platform addresses myths, reduces stigma, and empowers women with accessible, reliable information. “Our collaboration with Abbott is about more than just innovation-it's about empowering women across the Arab world with the tools and knowledge to take control of their health, build confidence, and thrive throughout every stage of life,” said Noor Jaber, founder of NAWAT Health.“Winning the Innovate4Health Challenge enables us to scale our impact by launching a campaign with Abbott to destigmatize menopause and expand our platform with greater access to specialists and tailored educational programs for women in the Middle East.” Dr. Hesham Arab, Gynecologist and Obstetrician, and Director of Dr. Arab Medical Center, commented,“Abbott's Innovate4Health Challenge has been instrumental in spotlighting impactful digital solutions that help elevate culturally relevant care to the forefront of women's health. Platforms like NAWAT Health are essential for empowering women with the knowledge and tools they need to navigate the menopause transition confidently.”

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