The 17th edition of the Excellence in Oncology Care (EIOC 2026) has officially opened at InterContinental Dubai Festival City, bringing together more than 3,500 participants, including international oncology specialists, healthcare professionals, researchers and representatives from leading medical institutions.
Held under the theme “A New Era of Oncology Care,” the three-day congress focuses on scientific innovation, emerging cancer treatments and multidisciplinary collaboration to improve patient outcomes.
The event welcomes participants from more than 56 countries, features over 200 regional and international speakers and brings together 30 industry partners. It serves as a major platform for exchanging expertise and exploring developments in oncology across the UAE and the wider Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region.
Amb. Prof. Abdulsalam AlMadani, Chairman of INDEX Holding and Roving Ambassador of the Parliamentary Assembly of the Mediterranean (PAM) for the GCC Region, highlighted the importance of translating scientific discoveries into practical improvements in cancer treatment.
He emphasised that advances in cancer research offer renewed hope to patients and their families, while greater international cooperation can help accelerate access to innovative therapies.
AlMadani also noted that Dubai continues to strengthen its position as a global meeting point for medical professionals, researchers and healthcare organisations.
He explained that EIOC 2026 aims to build stronger connections between scientific research, clinical practice and the healthcare industry, supporting efforts to make advanced cancer care more accessible, effective and responsive to patient needs.
Dr. Shaheenah Dawood, President of the EIOC Conference, described the event as an important opportunity for international and regional specialists to exchange knowledge, discuss scientific breakthroughs and explore new approaches to cancer management.
She said this year’s theme reflects the growing importance of multidisciplinary cooperation, medical innovation and the integration of emerging treatment methods into clinical practice.
According to Dawood, the discussions and shared expertise presented during the congress are expected to support continued improvements in oncology services throughout the UAE and neighbouring countries.
Scientific Programme Highlights Advances in Oncology
The congress features more than 13 scientific sessions covering several areas of cancer care, including medical, clinical, surgical and radiation oncology, as well as haematology, oncology nursing, pharmacy, patient advocacy and allied healthcare disciplines.
Experts are examining emerging treatment strategies, advances in cancer research, innovative medical technologies and evolving approaches to personalised patient care.
A major focus of the programme is improving coordination between different oncology specialties to ensure patients receive comprehensive and integrated treatment.
Through scientific presentations, expert-led discussions and clinical case exchanges, participants are exploring solutions to existing healthcare challenges and identifying opportunities to introduce more effective therapeutic approaches.
The event also includes more than 60 scientific poster presentations, allowing researchers and medical professionals to share their findings, present ongoing studies and contribute to the development of oncology knowledge.
In addition, EIOC 2026 offers 61 Continuing Medical Education (CME) credit hours, accredited by the Dubai Health Authority (DHA), supporting professional development and helping healthcare practitioners strengthen their clinical expertise.
Dubai Strengthens Its Role in International Medical Collaboration
EIOC 2026 reflects Dubai’s expanding role as a destination for specialised medical conferences, scientific research exchanges and international healthcare partnerships.
The congress encourages cooperation between medical institutions, researchers and life sciences companies, with discussions focused on turning scientific advances into practical improvements in cancer diagnosis, treatment and patient support.
Organised by INDEX Conferences and Exhibitions, a member of INDEX Holding, the event is supported by several leading pharmaceutical companies and professional healthcare organisations.
Bayer, Lilly, MSD and Novartis are serving as the main sponsors of EIOC 2026.
The congress also receives support from prominent institutions and professional associations, including the International Federation of Head and Neck Oncologic Societies, Tata Memorial Hospital, Emirates Society of Colon & Rectal Surgery, Emirates Oncology & Haematology Nursing Society, Indian Society of Oncology and Saudi Urological Association.
Their involvement is expected to strengthen cooperation between healthcare professionals, research institutions and industry stakeholders.
As the three-day event progresses, discussions are expected to generate new scientific insights, expand professional networks and support the adoption of innovative cancer treatment strategies.
Through international knowledge exchange, research collaboration and multidisciplinary engagement, EIOC 2026 aims to contribute to the continued development of oncology care in the UAE, across the MENA region and beyond.
