Overview
- Novo Nordisk announced on June 3, 2026 that the once‑daily Wegovy pill (oral semaglutide) is now available in the United Arab Emirates, making the UAE the first country outside the United States to offer the medicine.
- Regulators authorised Wegovy for weight loss and to reduce major adverse cardiovascular events in adults with established heart disease and obesity or overweight, a decision supported by OASIS 4 trial results that showed about 17% mean weight loss when treatment was adhered to and roughly one in three participants achieving 20% or greater weight loss.
- UAE clinicians say the pill is prescription only and will be used for adults with BMI ≥30 or adults with BMI ≥27 plus at least one weight‑related condition after specialist assessment and baseline tests like blood sugar, lipids, kidney and thyroid function.
- Doctors and Novo Nordisk warn the treatment is not suitable for everyone and point to common early gastrointestinal side effects plus contraindications including pregnancy or breastfeeding, certain thyroid diseases, prior pancreatitis, severe gastrointestinal disorders, and severe kidney impairment.
- Novo Nordisk says future country launches will be selective and driven by patient demand, clinician readiness and infrastructure, and local experts note the oral option could broaden access in places such as the UAE where about 28% of adults have obesity but long‑term clinical support and reimbursement will shape real uptake.