H.H. Sheikh Theyab bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Chairman of the Presidential Court for Development and Fallen Heroes’ Affairs and Chairman of the Board of Trustees of Erth Zayed Philanthropies, has officially inaugurated the 46th ICMM World Congress of Military Medicine – Abu Dhabi 2026.
The opening ceremony was attended by Mohamed bin Mubarak bin Fadhel Al Mazrouei, Minister of State for Defence Affairs, and Lieutenant General Staff Ibrahim Nasser Al Alawi, Under-Secretary of the Ministry of Defence. Senior military officials, healthcare professionals, researchers and international experts were also present.
The international gathering, taking place at ADNEC Centre Abu Dhabi until November 13, is organised by the UAE Ministry of Defence in partnership with ADNEC Group and under the supervision of the International Committee of Military Medicine (ICMM).
Held under the theme “Ready When Needed. Resilient When Tested,” the congress marks the first time the UAE has hosted this major international event, highlighting the country’s growing capabilities in military healthcare, medical innovation and international conference management.
This year’s congress has attracted more than 2,000 participants and approximately 300 speakers representing over 120 countries. Its scientific programme includes more than 700 research abstracts covering over 40 medical and healthcare specialities.
The event provides an international platform for military and civilian healthcare professionals to share expertise, examine emerging medical technologies and discuss strategies for improving healthcare delivery in challenging operational conditions.
Key discussions focus on artificial intelligence and digital healthcare technologies, cooperation between military and civilian medical services, emergency preparedness, disaster response and the management of mass-casualty incidents.
Other important subjects include mental healthcare, rehabilitation, medical evacuation, healthcare supply chains and logistical support, alongside new approaches to delivering effective medical treatment in complex environments.
An accompanying exhibition brings together local and international healthcare organisations, technology providers and medical companies to present advanced medical equipment, innovative solutions and developments in defence healthcare.
The exhibition also creates opportunities for professional networking, knowledge sharing and partnerships aimed at strengthening medical services and improving emergency response capabilities.
Hosting the 46th ICMM World Congress reflects the UAE’s continued focus on international cooperation, humanitarian partnerships and the development of advanced military medical capabilities.
The event further highlights the country’s contribution to global efforts to improve healthcare preparedness, respond to emerging medical challenges and strengthen systems designed to protect human lives.
