Arab Health 2024 contributed $269.7m to Dubai GDP: Informa

Arab Health, the Middle East’s largest healthcare event, generated an economic impact of $269.7m during its 2024 edition, bolstering Dubai’s tourism, hospitality, logistics, and healthcare sectors, event organiser Informa Markets.

Accommodation spending during the event accounted for $56.2m, driven by more than 58,000 visitors and over 3,600 exhibitors from 180 countries.

With participants averaging a 5.7-night stay, the total food and beverage spend reached $24.5m, highlighting the broader economic benefits of the event.

Arab Health’s contribution to the economy to rise further

Looking ahead, Arab Health is projected to contribute over $1.2bn to Dubai’s economy between 2026 and 2028, with accommodation spend expected to exceed $341.6m during that period.

The next edition, scheduled for January 27-30, 2025, at the Dubai World Trade Centre, is set to welcome over 60,000 visitors and 3,800 exhibitors.

Ross Williams, group event director at Informa Markets, praised Arab Health’s enduring impact on Dubai’s economy and healthcare landscape. “Arab Health has been a catalyst for Dubai’s economic and healthcare transformation for the past 50 years. The 2025 edition will celebrate this legacy and demonstrate how the event continues to drive growth in tourism, hospitality, and healthcare investment,” he said.

Growing influence and attendance

Since its inception in 1975, Arab Health has evolved from a regional gathering with 40 exhibitors into a global platform driving innovation in healthcare. Notable advancements showcased over the decades include digital imaging technologies in the 1980s and today’s AI-powered diagnostics.

The 50th edition of Arab Health promises a robust agenda, featuring the Future Health Summit, the debut of the World of Wellness, and the Healthcare ESG Forum, emphasizing sustainability and wellness.

Additionally, the Al Mustaqbal Hall will introduce a new exhibitor zone, and the inaugural Eco-sphere will focus on well-being and green innovations.

Medical professionals attending Arab Health 2025 will have access to nine CME-accredited conferences covering radiology, surgery, infection control, and healthcare leadership.

Three non-CME Healthcare Business Forums — EmpowHer: Women in Healthcare, Digital Health and AI, and Investment — will also take place.

The event is supported by key UAE government entities, including the Ministry of Health and Prevention, Dubai Health Authority, and Dubai Healthcare City Authority, underscoring its significance to the nation’s strategic healthcare vision.

Read: Arab Health 2025 to showcase region’s growing wearable medical devices market

For more information, visit www.arabhealthonline.com.