The inaugural edition of WHX Tech, a groundbreaking platform focused on advancements in digital health, officially commenced today at the Dubai World Trade Centre. This three-day event aims to transform the global healthcare sector, featuring a remarkable roster of over 200 expert speakers, 300 exhibitors, and an anticipated attendance of 5,000 international leaders in healthcare. WHX Tech is set to emerge as the leading venue for discussions at the intersection of technology and healthcare.
The event, which runs until September 10, signifies a pivotal moment in the UAE’s ambitions to solidify its status as a worldwide center for health innovation, in harmony with national goals to adopt cutting-edge healthcare technologies.
The official opening was conducted by Dr. Alawi AlSheikh-Ali, the director general of the Dubai Health Authority (DHA). During his opening statements, Dr. AlSheikh-Ali emphasized the importance of WHX Tech in mirroring the swift evolution of digital health technologies and their increasing role in shaping future patient care.
“The inaugural WHX Tech showcases the rapid progression of digital health technologies and their pivotal role in transforming the healthcare landscape,” stated Dr. AlSheikh-Ali.
“The innovations introduced over the next few days will elevate healthcare services and enhance patient outcomes.”
He further noted that this development aligns with the vision of Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, along with the directives of Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Deputy Prime Minister. The combined leadership, according to Dr. AlSheikh-Ali, is essential for establishing Dubai’s reputation as a global leader in health technology innovation.
AI and Humanity: Shaping Healthcare’s Future
One of the notable moments from the opening session was delivered by Dr. Amin Al Ameeri, assistant undersecretary of the Health Regulations Sector at the UAE Ministry of Health and Prevention. Engaging a captivated audience, Dr. Al Ameeri posed an essential question from the World X stage:
“In the future of healthcare, will humans or AI be the guiding force?”
After a moment of contemplation, he provided a clear answer that set the tone for the remainder of the event:
“We assert that it is humanity – it is the human who will guide AI.”
His remarks mirrored a profoundly human-centered approach to progress, reinforcing Dubai’s commitment to ensuring that technology serves humanity.
“In Dubai, we cherish people, their minds, their creativity, and innovations. We invite you to share all your wonderful ideas and technologies with us. Our core belief is to embrace and implement these new advances for the future of health and human welfare.”
Pharmaceutical Innovation and Regulatory Progress
In another keynote address, Dr. Fatima Al Kaabi, director general at the Emirates Drug Establishment (EDE), spotlighted the significant advancements achieved in the UAE’s regulatory framework for pharmaceuticals. Founded less than two years ago, the EDE has already significantly expedited access to groundbreaking medications.
Dr. Al Kaabi reported that 23 innovative medications were approved in 2025 alone, due to the expedited measures established by the EDE.
“In just two years, we’ve made remarkable advancements. We introduced the National List of Essential Medicines, established mutual recognition agreements for GMP certifications, and strengthened alliances with global regulators,” she explained.
These initiatives are facilitating more consistent and diverse access to essential medicines and components. The EDE supports local pharmaceutical manufacturing and is attracting international firms to establish advanced production facilities in the UAE.
“Thanks to improved GMP standards and top-tier infrastructure, the UAE is swiftly becoming a regional leader in high-value pharmaceutical production and exports.”
Digitization, she noted, will further enhance the efficiency of the regulatory process, leading to faster approvals, increased transparency, and a more robust environment for biotech and life sciences innovation.
Technology’s Role in Addressing Chronic Diseases
The evolving healthcare scene was also addressed by Harold ‘Hal’ Wolf, president and CEO of the Healthcare Information and Management Systems Society (HIMSS), which is a strategic partner of WHX Tech.
Wolf concentrated on the global challenges posed by chronic diseases, particularly within regions such as the Middle East and North Africa (MENA). He noted that demographic changes, coupled with enhanced diagnostics, contribute to an increased incidence of these diseases.
“The challenges in the Middle East and North Africa are not unique. High numbers can be attributed to two primary factors,” he remarked. “Firstly, we have an aging population, which, despite being positive, increases the likelihood of chronic diseases. Secondly, our capacity for prevention, understanding, and diagnosing chronic diseases continues to advance.”
While these statistics may appear discouraging, Wolf emphasized that the growing application of AI and digital technology offers a way forward.
“AI and various technological resources can provide us with the insights and operational guidance we need to succeed.”
MENA’s Leadership in Digital Health Expansion
In a focused session titled “Transforming Healthcare Access and Efficiency through Digital Innovation,” Shyam Bishen, Head of the Centre for Health and Healthcare at the World Economic Forum, highlighted the MENA region as the fastest-growing digital health market worldwide.
Bishen identified several driving forces behind this growth, including robust governmental support, substantial public investment, and a strategic emphasis on AI, data infrastructure, and digital frameworks.
“The MENA area stands as the world’s rapid growth leader in digital health, boasting unique strengths across different sectors, particularly in this domain,” he noted.
He also stressed the necessity of a collaborative network to ensure meaningful impacts.
“Genuine progress in digital, data, and AI-enhanced healthcare, aimed at improving outcomes, requires a network approach. No single organization can undertake the digital health revolution independently.”
“A well-established ecosystem is capable of addressing longstanding challenges and scaling solutions more effectively than isolated digital efforts.”
WHX Tech: A Strategic Initiative for Dubai
Peter Hall, president for IMEA at Informa Markets, reflected on Dubai’s exceptional positioning as the venue for the inaugural WHX Tech event.
“Dubai is the ideal place to host this event,” Hall stated. “It embodies innovation, ambition, and progress—values that align seamlessly with the mission of WHX Tech.”
He pointed out that the event’s emphasis on leadership, networking, and global collaboration would act as a catalyst for continued discourse and action.
“This initiative is a call to action, providing a platform for global stakeholders to convene, discuss, debate, and address complex challenges in healthcare and technology.”
The strategic collaboration with HIMSS further solidifies WHX Tech’s relevance as a trustworthy platform addressing the most critical challenges and opportunities within the sector.
WHX Tech will continue until September 10 at the Dubai World Trade Centre.