Dubai: His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister, and Ruler of Dubai, today inaugurated the World Health Expo Dubai 2026 (WHX) at the Dubai Exhibition Centre, Expo City Dubai. The event, taking place from February 9 to 12, marks the first time it is being held in Dubai and is themed 'Where the World of Healthcare Meets'.
According to Emirates News Agency, His Highness emphasized the significance of enhancing the healthcare system as a national priority focused on improving quality of life. He highlighted the UAE's continuous efforts to bolster healthcare sector readiness, support medical innovation, and implement advanced solutions to build sustainable health systems that can adapt to global changes.
Sheikh Mohammed stated, "The healthcare sector is a core pillar of comprehensive development. Our investment in medical innovation, knowledge, and specialized training reflects our vision for a future where prevention is the foundation of healthcare policies, and technology is a key partner in enhancing healthcare quality and outcomes."
He further added that hosting this global healthcare exhibition underscores the UAE's role as an international platform for advanced healthcare solutions, aligning with the UAE Centennial 2071 vision and enhancing the country's role in shaping the future of healthcare on a regional and global level.
Accompanying His Highness during the visit were H.H. Sheikh Mansoor bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice Chairman of the Dubai Health Board of Directors, and other prominent officials. The event is anticipated to draw over 235,000 specialized visitors from more than 180 countries, with 4,800 exhibitors presenting the latest advancements in medical devices, diagnostics, digital health, and more.
Throughout his tour, Sheikh Mohammed reviewed innovative healthcare technologies and solutions at the exhibition, focusing on digital transformation and service quality enhancement. He visited pavilions of global companies like Dr¤ger, United Imaging, Samsung, and GE HealthCare to learn about their latest solutions in critical care and medical imaging.
The World Health Expo serves as a pioneering healthcare platform, evolving over five decades under the WHX brand to meet the needs of global healthcare systems. The 2026 edition features expanded exhibition space, a robust conference program, and initiatives to foster collaboration in the healthcare ecosystem.
The Expo also includes WHX accredited conferences as part of the continuing medical education program, providing education across various medical specialties. WHX launched new flagship platforms like the Future X Stage, Frontiers Stage, and Visionary Stage, each addressing transformative aspects of global healthcare.
Held under the patronage of the Ministry of Health and Prevention and supported by UAE healthcare authorities, the event aligns with national priorities. Concurrently, WHX Labs, the region's leading laboratory and diagnostics event, is taking place at the Dubai World Trade Centre, enhancing collaboration in the global healthcare sector.