In February 2026, Dubai will return to the global spotlight as the World Health Expo (WHX), formerly Arab Health, ushers in a new chapter for the world’s largest healthcare event. Taking place from February 9 to 12 at the Dubai Exhibition Centre in Expo City Dubai, the event reflects both the scale of today’s healthcare sector and the growing need to align policy, innovation, science and leadership.
WHX 2026 is expected to attract more than 235,000 professional visits and 4,300 exhibitors from over 180 countries, marking the largest edition in its 50-year history. When co-located with WHX Labs, formerly Medlab Middle East, the combined healthcare week will draw over 270,000 professional visits and 4,800 exhibitors across two venues, positioning Dubai as a global hub for healthcare collaboration.
Beyond its size, WHX 2026 highlights a shift in how healthcare progress is driven, with innovation increasingly emerging at the intersection of regulation, investment, clinical practice and technology. Strong participation from UAE health authorities, including the Ministry of Health and Prevention, Dubai Health Authority, the Department of Health Abu Dhabi and Sharjah Health Authority, reinforces the event’s role as a platform for public and private sector engagement on system-wide priorities.
A key addition for 2026 is the launch of a dedicated Biotech and Life Sciences Zone, reflecting the growing impact of biotechnology in global healthcare. With the market projected to exceed US$4 trillion by 2035, the new zone will spotlight advances in genomics, advanced therapies, AI-driven research and pharmaceutical manufacturing, strengthening WHX’s position at the intersection of science, innovation and healthcare delivery.
