The UAE health authorities have launched a number of innovative health projects at the 48th edition of Arab Health 2023, which kicked off today at the Dubai World Trade Center and will run until February 2.
The Ministry of Health and Prevention (MoHAP), the Department of Health—Abu Dhabi (DoH), and the Dubai Health Authority (DHA) are also showcasing a host of innovative initiatives under a single platform dubbed "Emirates Health," bringing together the three entities under one roof.
Some of the projects on display have been jointly developed by the three bodies as part of a unique national initiative aimed at providing curative and digital health services in line with the country's strategy to establish a sustainable, flexible preventive health system.
Integrated federal approach
HE Abdulrahman bin Mohamed Al Owais, Minister of Health and Prevention, emphasized that the health authorities’ collaboration under a unified national platform at Arab Health 2023, the largest health conference in the region, demonstrates their commitment to developing a competitive, flexible, and effective healthcare sector that aligns with the UAE’s priorities and directions. This comes in implementation of the leadership’s wise vision to establish an integrated approach and a national roadmap that enhance future readiness and improve the capabilities of all vital sectors, including healthcare.
The Arab Health 2023 provides the UAE health authorities with an ideal opportunity to showcase national health projects jointly developed in line with the "UAE Centennial 2071" plan, which aims to build an Emirati generation that keeps pace with scientific developments in medicine and health sciences, actively contributes to scientific research, and works towards a better future for future generations. The global event also serves as a perfect platform to highlight the UAE’s quality achievements and latest developments in the field of health services.
Additionally, the conference offers exhibitors the opportunity to share their expertise and experiences, stay updated on the latest developments, and establish partnerships with international health institutions to support the implementation of MoHAP's strategy for shaping the future. In addition to developing health information systems and technologies that conform to global standards, the ministry’s strategy also aims to promote sustainability, forward-thinking, and digital solutions for managing preventive and community health programs to improve the quality of life and public health in the UAE.
For his part, H.E. Mansour Ibrahim Al Mansouri, Chairman of the Department of Health – Abu Dhabi (DoH), said: "Under the directives of the UAE’s wise leadership, the UAE has been able to successfully consolidate its position as a leading destination for healthcare and a hub for life sciences on the global stage. A milestone that is reflected in the growing interest we continue to receive from international healthcare giants that seek to leverage the Emirate’s ecosystem due to its advanced infrastructure, diverse population and policies that support research, innovation, and business development.
“Under the theme of "the Emirate’s Health,” the Department of Health is proud to be participating in Arab Health alongside the Ministry of Health and Prevention and Dubai Health Authority to showcase Abu Dhabi’s pioneering healthcare model and innovative health tech solutions. In this year’s edition of the event, DoH is set to exhibit its latest projects related to digital health, the genome and precision programme, healthcare in the Metaverse as well as the integral role of start-ups in resolving prominent challenges across the sector.
With the health and well-being of all community members remaining a top priority, we look forward to meeting our peers from across the world to exchange knowledge and expertise and elevate collaboration across the sector—thereby reinforcing Abu Dhabi’s position as a hub for innovation and life sciences," Al Mansouri said.
Meanwhile, HE Awad Saghir Al Ketbi, Director General of Dubai Health Authority, stated that the collaboration of MoHAP, DoH, and DHA at the Arab Health Exhibition under one platform and one slogan (Emirates Health) strengthens the UAE's health sector and creates a unified model of work that aligns the efforts of all three entities towards realizing health sustainability and other strategic goals of the UAE and its future aspirations.
Al Ketbi stated that the UAE's health sector has made many milestones and seen significant advancements, becoming one of the most advanced in the world in terms of its policies, modern and smart technologies, medical sciences, and professional practices. The sector is also known for its highly qualified and experienced personnel.
He reaffirmed that Arab Health has become a perfect venue for highlighting the successes of the health sector and showcasing the unique Emirati health experience, lauding the valuable strategic partnership between DHA, MoHAP and DoH. Al Ketbi emphasized the shared commitment to working together towards a brighter healthcare future and achieving the goals outlined in the "UAE Centennial 2071" plan.
During the four-day event, the Emirates Health Platform will witness the launch of an innovative health services package. It will also showcase a series of pioneering projects and initiatives aimed at building the future of health services by incorporating smart systems and advancing digital health practices, as well as utilizing big data, predictive models, health information systems, and other cutting-edge projects.
Arab Health is an annual event that brings together thousands of healthcare professionals and companies from around the world to showcase the latest products and services in the healthcare industry. This year's edition is held from January 30 to February 2 and features a wide range of healthcare products and services, including new technologies and innovations such as artificial intelligence. The exhibition is highly regarded in the Middle East and around the world for its focus on cutting-edge healthcare technology and advancements.
The Ministry of Health and Prevention (MOHAP) participated in G20 India’s first health working group session held in Thiruvananthapuram between 18th – 20th January 2023 respectively. The aim of the meeting was to discuss the priorities for the health track within G20 under the Indian presidency this year.
The Indian G20 presidency shared that during its presidency it will focus on the priorities of Health emergencies preparedness and response, strengthening cooperation in pharmaceutical sector with a focus on availability & access to safe, effective, quality and affordable medical countermeasures including, but not limited to, vaccine, therapeutics & diagnostics and digital health solutions to aid universal health coverage and improve healthcare service delivery.
Led by Dr. Yousif Mohammed Al Serkal, Director-General of Emirates Health Services, MOHAP delegation expressed gratitude to India for inviting the country to be part of the health working group and acknowledged their willingness and support to work with India to achieve the desired outcomes for their priorities.
Al Serkal emphasized that the UAE's participation in the G20’s event reflects the country's commitment to playing a significant, effective, and influential role in international efforts aimed at addressing global health challenges.
He emphasized the need to improve coordination and collaboration to upgrade health systems and support sustainable development goals, particularly in the areas of providing safe and effective medical supplies, treatments, and vaccines and ensuring access to these resources for all communities around the globe.
During the meeting, MOHAP emphasized on the need for increased cooperation and coordination among nations to address global health crises, particularly pandemics, and put forward suggestions that prioritize collaboration in order to utilize resources effectively.
During a session on medical value travel, the delegation showcased the UAE's capabilities and accomplishments in this field of medical value travel and provided suggestions for enhancing “medical value travel” globally.