If you’re running a healthcare facility in Abu Dhabi, you can’t afford to treat cybersecurity as an afterthought. With the digital transformation of healthcare, data is flowing faster—and threats are evolving just as quickly. That’s why the ADHICS Guidelines 2025 aren’t just another compliance checklist. They’re your frontline defense in safeguarding patient health information.
ADHICS, short for Abu Dhabi Healthcare Information and Cyber Security, is the official framework set by the Department of Health (DoH) to ensure that healthcare data remains secure, private, and accessible only to those who need it. The 2025 update brings a host of changes that reflect global cybersecurity trends and local healthcare priorities.
In this article, you’ll get a practical walkthrough of the latest ADHICS updates—so you can stay compliant, protect your patients, and operate with confidence.
What is ADHICS?
The ADHICS standard defines how healthcare providers in Abu Dhabi must handle patient data. It aligns with global best practices, including ISO 27001, NIST, and local healthcare laws.
ADHICS applies to:
- Hospitals and clinics
- Pharmacies and labs
- Health insurers
- IT vendors servicing healthcare systems
It covers four core domains:
- Information security
- Data privacy
- Cybersecurity
- Business continuity
Why the 2025 Guidelines Matter
The 2025 update raises the bar. It reflects evolving threats like ransomware, phishing, and third-party data breaches. More importantly, it ensures alignment with national initiatives like Malaffi, NABIDH, and Riayati.
Key reasons the update matters:
- Introduces stricter controls on third-party data processors
- Requires incident response within defined timelines
- Aligns with UAE federal privacy laws and Mo HAP cybersecurity protocols
- Supports AI-driven and cloud-based healthcare technologies
By following these guidelines, you protect patient trust, meet licensing requirements, and avoid penalties.
Major Updates in ADHICS 2025
Here’s what’s new:
- Zero Trust Architecture (ZTA) adoption
- Mandatory multi-factor authentication (MFA) for all access points
- Stricter data encryption protocols (AES-256 and TLS 1.3)
- Enhanced third-party risk management policies
- Real-time SIEM (Security Information and Event Management) logging
- Annual penetration testing requirement
These updates reflect a shift from passive protection to proactive defense.
Information Security Governance Requirements
Strong governance is non-negotiable. ADHICS 2025 requires:
- A designated Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) or equivalent
- Board-level security oversight
- Regular review of security policies
- Audit logs maintained for at least 12 months
- Periodic reporting to DoH
You need leadership buy-in and documented accountability.
Risk Management and Business Continuity
ADHICS emphasizes proactive risk management. You must:
- Conduct quarterly risk assessments
- Develop and test Business Continuity Plans (BCP) and Disaster Recovery (DR) strategies
- Maintain a risk register with mitigation plans
- Document lessons from past incidents
Don’t wait for a breach to build resilience. Plan ahead.
Technical Controls: Encryption, Access, and Monitoring
Security isn’t complete without robust technical controls. Key requirements:
- AES-256 encryption for stored data
- TLS 1.3 for data in transit
- Role-based access control (RBAC)
- Centralized logging and real-time monitoring
- Automated alerts for suspicious activity
Every system and endpoint must follow these protocols.
Physical Security and Infrastructure Controls
You can’t secure data if the physical environment is vulnerable. ADHICS 2025 requires:
- Access badges and biometrics for sensitive areas
- CCTV surveillance for server rooms
- Fire suppression systems
- Secure disposal of paper records and hardware
- Facility access logs and visitor management systems
Physical and cyber protections must work together.
Staff Awareness and Training Standards
Even the best systems fail if staff don’t follow protocols. ADHICS mandates:
- Annual cybersecurity training for all employees
- Phishing simulation campaigns
- Role-specific training for IT and administrative staff
- Awareness posters and reminders in high-risk areas
Build a culture where everyone plays a role in data security.
ADHICS and Health Information Exchange (HIE) Systems
Malaffi, NABIDH, and Riayati are transforming UAE healthcare, but they depend on secure integration.
ADHICS provides the baseline for:
- Secure API connections
- Controlled data exchange across emirates
- Patient consent management
- Real-time data syncing and updates
If your systems connect to any HIE, ADHICS compliance is mandatory.
Steps to Prepare for ADHICS 2025 Compliance
Start now. Here’s your roadmap:
- Appoint a compliance team with leadership involvement
- Conduct a gap analysis using the official ADHICS checklist
- Update policies and implement missing controls
- Schedule mock audits every six months
- Train staff using real-world scenarios
- Engage an ADHICS-certified audit partner for external validation
Staying compliant requires continuous effort, not a one-time sprint.
Compliance isn’t just about checking boxes. It’s about making security part of your culture and future-proofing your practice in an increasingly digital world.
FAQs
1. Who must comply with ADHICS Guidelines 2025?
All healthcare providers, IT vendors, insurers, and third parties handling patient data in Abu Dhabi.
2. What happens if a facility fails to meet ADHICS requirements?
Non-compliance can lead to penalties, suspension of license, and reputational damage.
3. Are there tools to help with ADHICS implementation?
Yes, the DoH provides assessment tools and templates to guide facilities through compliance.
4. How often should risk assessments be conducted under ADHICS 2025?
Quarterly, or whenever major changes to the IT environment occur.
5. Does ADHICS apply to cloud-hosted systems?
Yes, cloud systems must comply with ADHICS controls, including data encryption and secure access protocols.