Muscat to become a global hub for oncology innovation at 2025 cancer congress
The Global Cancer Congress, Summit, and Exhibition 2025 is set to position Muscat as a pivotal hub for global oncology collaboration. Scheduled from November 3 to 6 at the Oman Convention and Exhibition Centre, this landmark event commemorates the Oman Cancer Association’s (OCA) 25th anniversary while attracting participation from over 40 countries worldwide. Organised in partnership with the Ministry of Health, Ministry of Social Development, and the Qatar Cancer Society, the congress aims to foster international cooperation in the fight against cancer through a convergence of scientific innovation, policy dialogue, and community engagement.
Celebrating a quarter-century of impactful cancer care initiatives, the OCA has worked alongside government ministries, public and private sector supporters, and regional partners to build a robust cancer control framework in Oman. Dr. Wahid Al Kharusi, Chairman of the OCA, highlighted the government’s indispensable backing under His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tariq's leadership, which has underpinned the association’s growth and regional influence. Marking its Silver Jubilee, the association has also received official recognition as an NGO observer at the United Nations General Assembly, reflecting its rising international stature.
The congress promises a rich programme featuring leading experts in oncology, radiology, palliative care, and artificial intelligence applied to diagnostics. Cutting-edge topics scheduled for discussion include personalised vaccines, mRNA-enhanced immunotherapies, precision oncology, and cellular therapies such as CAR-T treatment for blood cancers. Keynote speakers include Yuthar Al Rawahi, OCA founder and four-time cancer survivor, who will share a poignant perspective on the transformative power of early detection, awareness, and holistic community support—messages intended to shift public perceptions on cancer.
Complementing high-level scientific dialogue, the congress integrates a global summit dedicated to policy innovations and a multi-sectoral exhibition showcasing the latest in pharmaceuticals, medical devices, digital health solutions, and rehabilitative care. Oman’s commitment to regional leadership is further evidenced by a pre-congress course in Doha, Qatar, supporting capacity-building with scholarships for 25 participants from diverse countries. This initiative, alongside planned policy discussions including a joint cancer prevention declaration, underscores the event’s ambition to foster adaptable regional guidelines and collective action against cancer.
In addition to medical professionals—from oncologists to researchers and general practitioners—the congress welcomes policymakers and the public. Interactive community events scheduled during the congress aim to dispel widespread misconceptions, such as beliefs that cancer is contagious or that surgery promotes cancer spread. Public engagement activities include an open exhibition and a symbolic 2-kilometre breast cancer awareness walk, reflecting the event’s dual focus on scientific advancement and societal impact.
Responding to rising demand, registration fees have been reduced to encourage broader participation, with logistical support for international delegates regarding visas, accommodation, and transport. The OCA has also extended a special invitation to local media outlets to ensure comprehensive coverage and heightened cancer awareness, recognising the media’s vital role in the success of past initiatives.
As cancer care rapidly evolves, the Global Cancer Congress 2025 stands as a critical platform to unite diverse stakeholders—researchers, clinicians, policymakers, NGOs, and industry innovators—intent on shaping the future of oncology both regionally and globally. This four-day event not only celebrates past achievements but galvanises new partnerships and innovations poised to reduce cancer’s burden and improve patient outcomes worldwide.