The United Arab Emirates has become only the third country in the world to approve MIEBO, a prescription eye drop developed by Bausch+Lomb for the treatment of dry eye disease, following authorization by the Emirates Drug Establishment.
The drug’s active ingredient, Perfluorohexyloctane, works by addressing tear evaporation directly — a mechanism that sets it apart from existing treatments and represents the first time a medicinal eye drop has been developed to specifically target that cause of the condition. Dry eye disease affects millions of people worldwide and can significantly impair visual comfort and everyday quality of life.
Clinical data supporting the approval came from two studies, designated GOBI and MOJAVE, which together enrolled more than 1,200 patients. Both trials demonstrated statistically significant improvements in disease signs and symptoms over the course of treatment.
The EDE’s clearance of MIEBO adds to a broader effort by UAE health authorities to shorten the gap between global pharmaceutical approvals and patient access domestically, in line with international regulatory standards.
By stabilizing the tear film and reducing associated symptoms, the treatment offers a targeted approach for patients who have not found adequate relief through existing therapies.
