UAE’s Emirati woman leads groundbreaking colorectal surgery conference with AI innovations
The Third International Conference on Colorectal Surgery concluded recently at the Raffles Hotel in Dubai, marking another significant milestone for the Emirates Society of Colorectal Surgery. Led by Dr Sara Al Bastaki, a pioneering Emirati colorectal surgery consultant and the first woman from the UAE to head an international event in this specialised field, the conference drew more than 60 experts from over 20 countries. This diverse participation underscored the UAE’s emerging role as a global hub for advanced medical knowledge and innovation in colorectal surgery.
The event was officially inaugurated under the patronage of Dr Amin Al Ameeri, Assistant Undersecretary for Public Health Policy and Licensing at the Ministry of Health and Prevention. In his opening remarks, Dr Al Ameeri highlighted the vital role that global medical conferences play in enhancing the quality of healthcare across the UAE, while reinforcing the country’s position as a centre of medical innovation and advanced clinical training.
Since its establishment in 2020, the Emirates Society of Colorectal Surgery has rapidly evolved into a competitive regional and international player despite being a relatively young organisation. Under the strategic leadership of Dr Al Bastaki, the society has managed to establish a strong presence alongside older, more established global counterparts, some with histories exceeding two decades. This growth aligns closely with the UAE's broader ambitions to advance medical education and empower national clinical talents.
The conference featured extensive scientific sessions focusing on cutting-edge topics such as robotic surgery, minimally invasive procedures, artificial intelligence (AI) in surgical planning, inflammatory bowel diseases, and the treatment of colorectal cancers. Participating experts engaged in high-level discourse and shared the latest advancements, reflecting the fast pace of innovation within this specialised surgical field. Practical workshops and training programmes for residents and young surgeons were also integral parts of the event, contributing to the UAE’s efforts to develop a robust pipeline of skilled healthcare professionals.
Dr. Sara Al Bastaki emerged as a leading voice at the conference, embodying the UAE’s vision for medical leadership. In her closing address, she underscored the significance of the event beyond its immediate success, describing it as a demonstration of the UAE’s capacity to drive global medical progress. "Our vision is clear: to elevate science in the service of humanity and equip doctors with the tools of the future," she said, signalling a commitment to both scientific excellence and human-centred care.
The conference strategic partnerships further enhanced its prestige and reach. Collaborations with renowned entities such as the European Crohn’s and Colitis Organisation (ECCO), the Saudi Society of Colorectal Surgery, and the Open Source Research initiative helped consolidate Dubai’s status as a nexus of international expertise and medical innovation.
Notably, the integration of AI technologies in colorectal disease diagnosis and surgery was a highlight, with Dr. Al Bastaki announcing ongoing studies aimed at implementing AI techniques in UAE hospitals by the end of 2025. This initiative aligns with global trends leveraging AI to improve surgical outcomes and precision, showcasing the UAE’s commitment to adopting cutting-edge technologies.
The successful conclusion of this conference cements the Emirates Society of Colorectal Surgery’s role as a key scientific and educational force, positioning the UAE as a beacon for medical research, education, and innovation in the Middle East and beyond. With national talents like Dr. Sara Al Bastaki leading the charge, the country is poised to continue its trajectory of influence in the specialised surgery sector on the international stage.