Elon Musk’s Neuralink to Launch Brain Chip Trial in Abu Dhabi

In a landmark development for neurotechnology in the region, Neuralink, the brain-computer interface company founded by Elon Musk, is launching its first clinical trial in the Middle East in Abu Dhabi.

The trial, titled ‘UAE-PRIME’, is being conducted in partnership with the Department of Health Abu Dhabi and Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi. It will focus on evaluating how individuals with motor and speech impairments can use Neuralink’s implantable device to control devices and communicate using thought.

Founded in 2016, Neuralink aims to develop brain-computer interfaces (BCIs) that can treat a wide range of neurological conditions, including paralysis, epilepsy, and eventually even enhance human capabilities through direct integration with digital systems.

“This is an important step towards making our groundbreaking technology available worldwide to transform the lives of millions affected by debilitating neurological conditions,” the company said in a statement on LinkedIn.

The UAE-PRIME trial follows previous trials conducted in the United States and marks a significant expansion of Neuralink’s global clinical footprint. The partnership enables the company to leverage Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi’s advanced neurology and neurosurgery expertise, while also gathering clinical data from a diverse patient population.

Musk, who also leads Tesla, SpaceX, and social media platform X, shared news of the trial on his X.com profile, further amplifying global interest in the UAE’s growing role in medical innovation.

Neuralink has opened a patient registry and invited individuals with relevant medical conditions to express interest in participating in the study.