UAE Strengthens Its Global Position as a Healthcare Powerhouse, Leading the Future of Medical Tourism and Wellness Innovation

Published on December 12, 2025

The UAE is rapidly establishing itself as a global leader in healthcare innovation, medical tourism, and wellness, with a strategic vision that integrates cutting-edge technologies and world-class medical services. By hosting the second edition of the Medical Tourism and Wellness Summit in Dubai, the country demonstrated its commitment to transforming the healthcare landscape. With a focus on advancing both medical treatments and the overall wellness experience, the UAE is positioning itself as the preferred destination for international patients seeking not only top-tier medical care but also a holistic approach to wellbeing, reinforcing its status as a trailblazer in the global medical tourism sector.

UAE Reinforces Its Position as a Leading Hub for Healthcare and Innovation

Dubai, United Arab Emirates – The second edition of the Medical Tourism and Wellness Summit, organized by Forbes Middle East, concluded on December 10th at the luxurious Jumeirah Beach Hotel, underscoring the UAE’s rising influence as a global hub for healthcare and innovation in medical tourism. In partnership with the American Hospital Dubai, the event attracted over 100 industry leaders, experts, and decision-makers, all gathered to discuss the future of health and wellness.

His Excellency Abdulla bin Touq Al Marri, UAE Minister of Economy and Tourism, kicked off the summit’s opening session by highlighting the pivotal role that the healthcare sector plays in driving economic growth and enhancing the UAE’s global competitiveness. He emphasized the country’s ongoing efforts to create a fully integrated environment where healthcare, tourism, and technology converge, setting the stage for the UAE’s further growth on the world map.

The UAE’s vision to foster a seamless integration of healthcare and tourism is gaining momentum, not only by making the country a leader in medical tourism but also by providing an unmatched experience for international patients seeking high-quality medical services. Bin Touq stressed that the summit’s discussions were part of a broader strategy to make the UAE a global destination for health and wellness, ensuring the integration of cutting-edge technologies and healthcare advancements within the tourism sector.

Mishal Karim Julfar, Executive Director of Dubai Corporation for Ambulance Services, further contributed to the summit, offering insights into Dubai’s future wellbeing ecosystem. Julfar’s remarks reinforced the UAE’s commitment to medical tourism, reiterating the city’s ambition to become a central player in the industry by providing world-class healthcare alongside an exceptional tourist experience.

A key feature of the summit was a session led by Al Omian, who outlined the UAE’s holistic approach to wellbeing. Emphasizing a comprehensive model that transcends traditional treatment, Al Omian highlighted the importance of collaboration, innovation, and shared knowledge in achieving a robust healthcare and tourism environment. Dubai’s central role as a dynamic leader in the sector was a focal point, underscoring its ability to influence the trajectory of both regional and global medical tourism.

The summit featured over 20 panel discussions, covering an array of topics from mental health and physical wellbeing to nutrition and integrated wellness solutions. A major highlight was the discussion surrounding the UAE National Strategy for Wellbeing 2031, a forward-thinking initiative designed to position the country as a global leader in the wellness industry. This strategic vision is aligned with the UAE’s broader ambitions outlined in its We the UAE 2031 plan and the UAE Centennial 2071, which aim to create a healthier and more prosperous future for citizens and residents alike.

The UAE National Strategy for Wellbeing 2031 focuses on improving social wellbeing, enhancing public services, and boosting income levels—all key components in strengthening the country’s appeal as a sought-after destination for both medical tourism and investment. The initiative aims to improve the overall quality of life for residents while attracting international tourists and investors looking to benefit from the country’s flourishing healthcare system.

As the summit concluded, there were repeated calls for continued public-private sector collaboration to sustain innovation in medical tourism. Discussions underscored the urgency of developing sustainable, scalable solutions to meet the growing global demand for medical tourism services. Dubai, as the epicenter of the UAE’s healthcare innovation efforts, continues to lead the charge in shaping the future of the industry.

The summit also saw close cooperation between Forbes Middle East and its key partners, including the Ministry of Economy and Tourism and the American Hospital Dubai, which served as the event’s presenting partner. A diverse range of event and gift partners, such as Aspetar, BeAthletica, Bateel, INNARA, and others, contributed to a comprehensive and successful event. The event’s logistical support included transportation partner The Global Limo, entertainment partner Dubai Drums, and sustainable print partner Spectrum Sustainable Printing, further enhancing the experience for attendees.

The UAE is cementing its role as a global leader in healthcare innovation and medical tourism, with Dubai hosting the Medical Tourism and Wellness Summit to showcase its cutting-edge advancements. By integrating world-class medical services with a focus on overall wellness, the country is positioning itself as the ultimate destination for international patients seeking exceptional care and holistic wellbeing.

This high-profile gathering marked yet another milestone for Dubai’s growing stature in the global medical tourism sector. The UAE’s focus on healthcare innovation continues to position the country as a leader in both the medical and tourism industries, reflecting a forward-thinking vision that integrates the best of healthcare, technology, and tourism to provide unparalleled services for global travelers. Through strategic investments, collaborations, and cutting-edge initiatives, the UAE is set to remain a key player in the evolving world of medical tourism.