Abu Dhabi's TII fires up 2μm laser for surgery

The Technology Innovation Institute in Abu Dhabi developed a 2-micrometer high-power fiber laser for medical and industrial applications. The Thulium-based system delivers precise performance in water-rich environments, and the compact modular design enables integration into surgical instruments for urinary stone treatment, prostate surgery, and urology procedures. The institute partnered with LIMA Photonics, a German medical technology startup, to commercialize the research and combine laser development capabilities with medical device design expertise. The effort advances Abu Dhabi's strategy to establish the United Arab Emirates as an advanced technology hub through the applied research division of the Advanced Technology Research Council.