Ahmed Bin Mohammed Opens 30th Edition Of DUPHAT Conference Highlighting Healthcare Innovations
H.H. Sheikh Ahmed bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Second Deputy Ruler of Dubai and Chairman of the Dubai Media Council, inaugurated the 30th edition of the Dubai International Pharmaceutical and Technology Conference and Exhibition, known as DUPHAT 2025. The event is hosted at the Dubai World Trade Centre until 9 January, drawing over 31,000 visitors from 101 countries.
The exhibition is a significant gathering for pharmaceutical companies in the Middle East and Africa. It features 1,376 exhibitors and includes contributions from 155 expert speakers. Participants can attend 130 scientific sessions and nine workshops. University students are also presenting 400 research posters on medical innovations.
Amb. Dr. Abdulsalam AlMadani expressed pride in organising DUPHAT, highlighting its role in fostering international collaboration and innovation in the pharmaceutical industry. "Over the past 30 years, DUPHAT has become the most important event in the pharmaceutical industry," he stated. This year’s event also includes 'Vita Show Dubai,' focusing on dietary supplements and vitamins.
The conference will cover diverse topics shaping healthcare's future. Discussions include 'Pharmacy Management and Leadership: Shaping the Future of Healthcare' and 'Therapeutic Potential of Targeting Bone Formation Proteins in Diabetic Retinopathy.' Other subjects include patient safety through interdisciplinary education.
The 'Vita Show Dubai' exhibition runs alongside DUPHAT, showcasing innovations in dietary supplements with over 275 global brands participating. China hosts the largest pavilion this year. The sector is expanding rapidly due to increased demand for products like vitamins and functional foods that offer health benefits beyond basic nutrition.
As unhealthy diets persist, there's a growing demand for dietary supplements in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region. This market is projected to grow at an annual rate of 7.1 percent, reaching US$11.709 billion by 2028. The MENA nutraceuticals market is expected to hit US$24.23 billion by 2030.
Healthcare Advancements in MENA
Dr. Ali Al Sayed Hussain emphasised DUPHAT's role as a platform for discussing challenges and opportunities in pharmaceuticals, healthcare, and dietary supplements globally and regionally. He noted its commitment to enhancing innovation through public-private collaboration to improve healthcare quality worldwide.
The UAE ranks second among the fastest-growing pharmaceutical markets in the MEA region, contributing US$4.4 billion in sales. Lifestyle changes, increased longevity, and digital technology adaptation drive growth in GCC healthcare markets.
DUPHAT is organised annually by INDEX Conferences and Exhibitions with support from various international organisations such as Dubai Health Authority and American Pharmacists Association.
With inputs from WAM


