⬇ PDF download: How Arab Health drives cross-sector innovation in Dubai and its strategic benefits to global entrepreneurs

How Arab Health drives cross-sector innovation in Dubai and its strategic benefits to global entrepreneurs

• Beyond the healthcare sector, Arab Health contributes to the growth of other strategic industries such as tourism, hospitality, and education.
• In 2024, accommodation spending during Arab Health was at $56.2 million, while F&B expenditures were at $24.5 million.
• This year, the Arab Health Congress will host 10 CME-accredited scientific conferences for healthcare professionals from the Middle East and beyond.

The UAE, supported by government entities such as the UAE Ministry of Health and Prevention, Dubai Health Authority, and the Department of Health Abu Dhabi, has been unrelenting in its goal of becoming among the leading nations in healthcare. This aim is evidenced by its hosting of a major conference like Arab Health, which gathers the brightest minds from across the world annually to tackle current challenges and future breakthroughs in the industry. In this pursuit, the government as well as local private businesses actively collaborate with international organisations to test and develop cutting-edge healthcare technologies. 

As the host city for this significant event, Dubai is influential in facilitating these meaningful conversations and partnerships. The importance of this platform extends beyond the healthcare sector, creating a watershed effect on other key industries, including tourism, hospitality, and education. These sectors benefit from an inpouring of professionals, knowledge exchange, and innovation, further promoting Dubai’s standing as an excellent location for those interested in doing business in Dubai.

This article is the second in an ongoing series that covers the groundbreaking innovations showcased at Arab Health and their far-reaching impact on tourism, hospitality, and education.

Revolutionising healthcare with innovation

Since its inception in 1975, Arab Health has hosted important discussions and showcased groundbreaking technologies that redefine the future of healthcare. Many cutting-edge products are launched during this flagship event. The rise of artificial intelligence has introduced state-of-the-art technologies that enhance patient care. This advancement has led to faster and more accurate diagnoses, personalised treatment plans, and the discovery of new therapies.

Within this line, the Arab Health Congress, a key component of the broader Arab Health event, has presented enlightening discussions surrounding the applications of AI in clinical decision-making and patient monitoring. Notable sessions, such as the Future of Healthcare Series, stress the role of AI and data analytics in enhancing patient outcomes and operational efficiency. Moreover, AI-powered diagnostics, wearable health devices, and telemedicine platforms were prominently featured in 2024, demonstrating AI’s rapid adoption. The launch of next-generation genomics tools and precision medicine technologies last year has also highlighted the UAE’s forward-thinking approach.

There is no doubt that these advancements have not only enhanced patient care but have also made Dubai’s business environment increasingly attractive to healthcare investors and start-ups. For entrepreneurs intending to set up a business in Dubai, the city’s strong drive to collaborate with research facilities and organisations to develop innovative solutions is presented with great options.

Arab Health’s ripple effects on tourism, hospitality, and education

Besides greatly improving Dubai’s healthcare industry, Arab Health has significantly impacted the city’s tourism and education sectors. Last year’s Arab Health generated a staggering $269.7 million in economic impact, with notable contributions from:

• Accommodation: Attendees contributed over $56.2 million and averaging 5.7-night stays
• Food and Beverage: Spending in this sector exceeded $24.5 million

Similarly, the education sector reaps significant benefits from the flagship event, particularly through its Continuing Medical Education (CME) courses. This year’s Arab Health Congress is set to host 10 CME-accredited scientific conferences for healthcare professionals from the Middle East and beyond. Below are the CME-accredited conferences and their respective locations:

At the Dubai World Trade Centre:

• 9th Public Health Conference
• Healthcare Leadership – Samson Global Leadership Academy
• HAYAT – The Annual Organ Donation and Transplantation Congress 2025

At Conrad Dubai:

• 2nd Infection Control Conference
• 2nd CSSD (Central Sterile Services Department) Conference
• 8th Emergency Medicine & Critical Care Conference
• 16th Quality Management & Patient Safety Conference
• 17th Obstetrics & Gynaecology Conference
• 24th General Surgery Conference
• 25th Total Radiology Conference

These accredited CME programmes offered at Arab Health ensure that healthcare professionals remain at the top of industry developments in order to uphold the highest standards of care. Additionally, attendees can look forward to expert insights from over 250 speakers, participate in 110 sessions, and much more.

Indeed, the event’s comprehensive ecosystem reflects the interrelated nature of industries as well as its expanding benefits to other core sectors. Forward-thinking entrepreneurs and SMEs that take advantage of this vibrant corporate ecosystem can seamlessly start businesses in Dubai and scale their operations successfully.

Final points

Arab Health is a great example of Dubai’s readiness to attract global talent and investment in order to create an ecosystem where innovation thrives. For entrepreneurs considering doing business in Dubai, the event highlights the strategic advantages of establishing operations in a city that prioritises healthcare excellence, robust infrastructure, and economic incentives.