Arab Health, the premier healthcare event and congress in the Middle East, has highlighted its significance to the economy of Dubai, contributing $269.7 million in 2024. This economic influence has positively affected several key sectors, such as tourism, hospitality, logistics, and investments in healthcare.
Impact on visitor spending
As reported by Informa, the 2024 edition of Arab Health attracted more than 58,000 visitors and featured over 3,600 exhibitors from 180 countries. This event generated more than $56.2 million in accommodation expenditures, with participants averaging a stay of 5.7 nights. Additionally, the total spending on food and beverages exceeded $24.5 million.
Future economic projections
Looking ahead, the economic impact forecast for 2026 to 2028 is projected to surpass US$1.2 billion, with accommodation spending anticipated to exceed US$341.6 million during this period.
Drivers of growth
This anticipated growth is expected to be driven by an increase in visitors and exhibitors from both domestic and international markets. The upcoming 2025 edition of Arab Health, set to take place at the Dubai World Trade Centre from January 27 to 30, is projected to attract over 3,800 exhibitors and more than 60,000 attendees.
Celebrating 50 years of impact
Ross Williams, group event director at Informa Markets, indicated that Arab Health has played a significant role in the economic and healthcare transformation of Dubai over the past 50 years. He noted that the 2025 edition would pay tribute to this legacy and highlight how the event continues to promote growth in tourism, hospitality, and healthcare investment. He emphasized that by attracting global participation, the event is fostering collaborations that are likely to impact the future of healthcare worldwide.
“This 50-year celebration reflects Arab Health’s rich history and a leap forward, exemplifying Dubai’s strategic position as a global healthcare hub. By 2028, Arab Health is poised to drive further international collaborations, investments, and innovations that will redefine healthcare for decades to come,” he added.
Evolution of Arab Health
Since its launch in 1975, Arab Health has evolved from a regional gathering with 40 exhibitors into a global healthcare platform. Over the past five decades, the event has highlighted innovations that have transformed modern healthcare, from digital imaging technologies in the 1980s to today’s AI-driven diagnostics, emphasizing its crucial role in advancing the industry.
Transformative events in 2025
The 50th edition will feature several transformative events, including the Future Health Summit, which will delve into the latest healthcare trends and technologies. Additionally, Arab Health will introduce the World of Wellness and Healthcare ESG Forum, focusing on sustainability, wellness, and green innovations, aligning with the visions of Dubai and the UAE for a sustainable, tech-oriented future.
Commitment to education and innovation
Moreover, the Astronaut Al Worden Endeavour Scholarship, a pioneering initiative aimed at supporting aspiring scientists and engineers, will showcase the UAE’s dedication to nurturing global healthcare and scientific talent.
Continuing medical education opportunities
Attendees of Arab Health 2025 will also have access to nine Continuing Medical Education (CME) accredited conferences at Conrad Dubai, covering topics such as radiology, obstetrics and gynecology, quality management, surgery, emergency medicine, infection control, public health, decontamination and sterilization, and healthcare leadership. An invitation-only conference on orthopaedics will also be held.
New exhibitor zones and forums
In addition, three non-CME Healthcare Business Forums are scheduled: EmpowHer: Women in Healthcare, Digital Health and AI, and Investment.
This year will see the introduction of the Al Mustaqbal Hall as a new exhibitor zone showcasing a variety of first-time exhibitors and the inaugural Eco-sphere, a vibrant health and well-being area developed through the World of Wellness conference and Healthcare ESG Forum. This area will host exhibitors from the healthcare and general services, wellness and prevention, and orthopaedics and physiotherapy sectors.
Arab Health 2025 will receive support from various government bodies, including the UAE Ministry of Health and Prevention, the Government of Dubai, the Dubai Health Authority, the Department of Health, and the Dubai Healthcare City Authority.
