Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Opens World Health Expo Dubai 2026, Reaffirming Healthcare as National Priority
Dubai, The Gulf Observer: His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, on Monday inaugurated World Health Expo Dubai 2026 (WHX) at the Dubai Exhibition Centre, Expo City Dubai. The leading global healthcare event is being held for the first time at the venue from February 9 to 12, 2026, under the theme “Where the World of Healthcare Meets.”
On the occasion, Sheikh Mohammed affirmed that the development of the healthcare system remains a national priority centred on people and quality of life. He said the UAE continues to strengthen the readiness of its healthcare sector, support medical innovation, and adopt advanced solutions to build resilient and sustainable health systems capable of keeping pace with global changes.
“The healthcare sector is one of the core pillars of comprehensive development,” His Highness said. “Our investment in medical innovation, knowledge, and specialised training reflects our vision for a future in which prevention forms the foundation of healthcare policies, and technology serves as a key partner in enhancing the quality and outcomes of healthcare services.”
He added that Dubai’s hosting of the global healthcare exhibition reinforces the UAE’s role as an international platform for shaping advanced healthcare solutions and aligns with the objectives of the UAE Centennial 2071 vision, strengthening the country’s role in shaping the future of healthcare regionally and globally.
During his visit, Sheikh Mohammed was accompanied by Sheikh Mansoor bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice Chairman of the Dubai Health Board of Directors; Ahmed bin Ali Al Sayegh, Minister of Health and Prevention; Helal Saeed Almarri, Director General of the Dubai World Trade Centre Authority and Dubai’s Department of Economy and Tourism; Dr. Alawi Alsheikh Ali; Dr. Amer Sharif; and Mishal Abdulkarim Julfar.
The event is expected to attract more than 235,000 specialised visitors from over 180 countries, with the participation of more than 4,800 exhibitors showcasing the latest solutions in medical devices, diagnostics, digital health, healthcare infrastructure, biotechnology, and life sciences—further reinforcing Dubai’s position as a global hub for healthcare advancement.
During a tour of the exhibition, Sheikh Mohammed reviewed advanced healthcare solutions and medical technologies highlighting innovation’s role in strengthening system readiness, supporting digital transformation, and enhancing service quality. He visited the pavilions of leading global companies, including Dräger, United Imaging, Samsung, and GE HealthCare, where he was briefed on developments in critical care, medical imaging, digital health, and AI-powered technologies.
He also toured the pavilions of national healthcare entities, including Dubai Health and the Ministry of Health and Prevention, reviewing initiatives focused on digital transformation, preventive care, and service quality. In addition, he reviewed a Field Support Unit vehicle presented by the Dubai Corporation for Ambulance Services, equipped with advanced medical technologies to enhance emergency response.
World Health Expo represents the evolution of a healthcare platform with a legacy spanning five decades. Operating under the WHX brand, the exhibition responds to the evolving needs of global healthcare systems by combining product showcases with platforms for clinical education, leadership dialogue, investment, and system-wide transformation. The 2026 edition is the largest in the event’s history, featuring expanded exhibition space, an enhanced conference programme, and new initiatives to strengthen collaboration across the healthcare ecosystem.
Several WHX-accredited conferences commenced alongside the exhibition, delivering continuing medical education across key specialties, including general surgery, diagnostic radiology, public health, obstetrics and gynaecology, urology, and patient safety. Led by more than 300 regional and international experts, the sessions provide practical clinical insights and evidence-based approaches to advancing patient care.
The event is held under the patronage of the Ministry of Health and Prevention and is supported by healthcare authorities across the UAE. Taking place concurrently with WHX Labs at the Dubai World Trade Centre, World Health Expo Dubai 2026 forms part of a city-wide healthcare experience across two major venues, further strengthening global collaboration in the healthcare sector.
