Photo Credit : WAM
Dubai has welcomed more than 600 healthcare professionals from 14 countries as Emirates Digestive Diseases Week (EDDW) 2026 officially opened at InterContinental Dubai Festival City, reinforcing the emirate’s growing role as a global hub for medical innovation and scientific collaboration.
The two-day conference, held on June 12 and 13, was inaugurated by Dr. Alawi Alsheikh Ali, Director-General of the Dubai Health Authority (DHA), alongside senior officials and healthcare leaders. The opening ceremony included a tour of the exhibition area, where leading companies showcased the latest technologies and solutions in digestive healthcare.
This year’s edition brings together over 65 international speakers, 30 participating companies, four scientific sessions and three specialised workshops focused on advancing clinical practice and strengthening collaboration across gastroenterology, hepatology, gastrointestinal endoscopy and related medical fields.
Organisers highlighted the importance of multidisciplinary approaches in managing digestive diseases and improving patient outcomes through evidence-based medical education and scientific exchange. Discussions during the opening sessions explored emerging trends in digestive healthcare, including advances in diagnostic and therapeutic procedures, the role of the microbiome, inflammatory bowel disease management, irritable bowel syndrome and gastroesophageal reflux disease.
Dr. Ali Al Fazari, Chairman of EDDW 2026, said the conference continues to serve as a leading platform for sharing clinical expertise and addressing evolving healthcare challenges through collaboration among specialists from different disciplines.
A major highlight of this year’s event is the launch of the region’s first Live Endoscopy initiative, featuring advanced procedures broadcast live from Italy under the leadership of renowned specialist Dr. Alessandro Repici.
Participants attending the conference can earn 14 Continuing Professional Development (CPD) credits accredited by the DHA. The event is organised by INDEX Conferences and Exhibitions, a member of INDEX Holding, with support from international organisations including the World Endoscopy Organisation (WEO) and the European Society of Gastrointestinal Endoscopy (ESGE).
The conference continues on Friday with additional workshops, scientific discussions and presentations focused on the latest developments shaping the future of digestive healthcare.
