What To Know
- A new addition this year is the Deep Dive Series, offering hands-on masterclasses and bootcamps designed for clinicians and healthcare executives, with a focus on practical skills related to digital transformation and sustainability.
- The World Health Expo (WHX), formerly known as Arab Health, officially began on 9 February 2026 at the Dubai Exhibition Centre (DEC), reinforcing Dubai’s growing role as a global hub for healthcare innovation and collaboration.
- The Visionary Stage will focus on healthcare investment, artificial intelligence, and women in leadership, while the Future X Stage will spotlight emerging digital health solutions and disruptive business models.
The World Health Expo (WHX), formerly known as Arab Health, officially began on 9 February 2026 at the Dubai Exhibition Centre (DEC), reinforcing Dubai’s growing role as a global hub for healthcare innovation and collaboration. Running until 12 February, the event is expected to bring together healthcare professionals, policymakers, innovators, and investors from 180 countries to explore the future of healthcare at both global and regional levels.
A Global Platform With a 50-Year Legacy
Recognised as the world’s largest healthcare platform, WHX enters its next chapter backed by a 50-year legacy. The 2026 edition will host more than 4,300 exhibitors representing the full healthcare ecosystem, from medical technology and diagnostics to digital health and infrastructure.
Organised under the patronage of the UAE Ministry of Health and Prevention, the Expo highlights the UAE’s continued commitment to healthcare advancement. This year’s event features a 15% increase in exhibition space compared to the previous edition and is expected to generate over USD 2.5 billion in business value, reflecting strong international participation and investment interest.
Government Participation Strengthens Policy Dialogue
Government engagement remains a central pillar of WHX 2026. Key institutions including the Dubai Health Authority and Abu Dhabi Department of Health, alongside other regional and international health authorities, will contribute to the event’s strategic programming.
Their involvement positions WHX as both a trade platform and a policy-focused forum, enabling collaboration across public and private sectors. The 2026 edition will feature 32 country pavilions, showcasing healthcare markets from Europe, Asia, Africa, and the Middle East, along with expanded zones dedicated to medical equipment, digital health, wellness, and healthcare infrastructure.
Expanded Conferences and Learning Experiences
WHX 2026 introduces new content formats alongside its established educational programmes. The event will host over 300 expert speakers across a range of sessions, including Continuing Medical Education (CME)-accredited conferences covering obstetrics, urology, radiology, public health, and patient safety.
Executive-level forums will address topics such as healthcare leadership, digital transformation, and investment trends. The Visionary Stage will focus on healthcare investment, artificial intelligence, and women in leadership, while the Future X Stage will spotlight emerging digital health solutions and disruptive business models.
A new addition this year is the Deep Dive Series, offering hands-on masterclasses and bootcamps designed for clinicians and healthcare executives, with a focus on practical skills related to digital transformation and sustainability.
Spotlight on Startups and Innovation
Innovation takes centre stage with the Xcelerate Competition, where 30 startups will compete for a USD 25,000 prize pool. The initiative provides early-stage health and technology companies with visibility, mentorship, and growth opportunities, with one participant ultimately named the Xcelerate Champion of Innovation.
WHX Labs Runs Concurrently
WHX will coincide with WHX Labs, formerly Medlab Middle East, taking place from 10 to 13 February 2026 at the Dubai World Trade Centre. Focused on laboratory and diagnostic sectors, WHX Labs complements the broader Expo and enhances cross-disciplinary collaboration among researchers, clinicians, and laboratory professionals.
Visitor Experience
With thousands of exhibitors and extensive networking opportunities, WHX 2026 offers attendees direct access to industry leaders, emerging technologies, and educational sessions. The Dubai Exhibition Centre provides convenient access to hotels, transport links, and hospitality services, supporting seamless participation for international visitors.
Outlook
As healthcare systems worldwide continue to evolve, World Health Expo 2026 is positioned as a key platform for shaping policy, investment, and innovation. For healthcare professionals, policymakers, investors, and innovators, WHX offers a focused opportunity to engage with the ideas and partnerships influencing the future of global healthcare.
Cover Image: WHX
