Royal College of Physicians hosts first Medicine Updates Conference in Dubai to boost Middle East medical collaboration
The Royal College of Physicians (RCP) has marked a significant milestone by hosting its inaugural Medicine Updates Conference in Dubai. This noteworthy event, organised in collaboration with local healthcare leaders, took place at the Conrad Dubai Hotel from May 17 to 18, showcasing an important expansion of the RCP’s outreach to the Middle East. Historically, this flagship conference is held multiple times a year across various cities in the UK, and its debut in Dubai serves to further enhance international cooperation in the medical field.
The conference offered an esteemed platform for medical professionals from diverse backgrounds to engage with cutting-edge research and evolving clinical practices. Leading experts from both the UAE and the UK convened to discuss advancements in patient care, focusing particularly on evidence-based medicine. Dr. Adel Al Sajwani, a key figure in the event and Deputy Medical Director at Mediclinic Parkview Hospital in Dubai, highlighted the importance of this collaboration, stating, “This is the first time the Royal College of Physicians and the UK have collaborated to host a conference here in the Middle East.” He underscored the educational benefits acquired from hosting over 1,400 doctors, offering a venue for knowledge exchange across various specialisations including cardiology, gastroenterology, and infectious diseases.
In addition to the wide array of lectures and panel discussions, Dr. Yanal Sallam, Consultant Internal Medicine and Head of the Department of Internal Medicine at Emirates Hospital Jumeirah, expressed pride in the event's ability to attract over 60 experts, delivering more than 40 lectures over the two days. This collaborative effort demonstrates a strong commitment to enhancing medical education and practice in the region. The prominent sponsorship from Emirates Hospital and Emirates Group further signifies the growing importance of medical conferences in nurturing sector-wide knowledge.
The global dimension of the conference was evident with the participation of various international experts, which not only enriched the discussions but also reflected the increasing trend of medical events becoming platforms for worldwide engagement and knowledge sharing. According to Dr. Omar Mustafa, Registrar of the Royal College of Physicians for the Middle East and North Africa, the event showcased significant developments in healthcare, establishing a rich dialogue about clinical advancements.
Concurrently, the UAE is preparing to host another significant healthcare event, the Global Summit on Public Health and Preventive Medicine, scheduled for later in the year. This summit, to be held from October 16 to 18, aims to address pressing health challenges through preventive strategies and public health interventions. Like the RCP conference, it will feature keynote speeches and interactive sessions, indicating a robust commitment to boosting public health knowledge in the region.
As the UAE continues its trajectory as a hub for international medical collaboration, the successful organisation of the Medicine Updates Conference signals a bright future for healthcare professionals seeking continuous education and innovation. The collaboration between local and international bodies reflects a shared desire to enhance not only individual practice but also collective approaches to healthcare challenges.
This inaugural event is not just a milestone for the RCP and its partners but also a reflection of the UAE's significant advancements in healthcare over the past few decades. As representatives from diverse medical specialisations convened to share insights and expertise, the importance of such platforms in fostering a culture of continuous learning and improvement in healthcare was palpably reinforced.