The inaugural Al Shifaa Summit for Integrative Medicine is set to take place from April 15 to 17, 2025, at the ADNEC Centre in Abu Dhabi. This global event aims to advance Integrative Medicine (IM) and enhance awareness of Traditional, Complementary, and Integrative Medicine (TCIM) through evidence-based practices and international collaboration. The summit is part of the Abu Dhabi Global Health Week, a significant initiative by the Department of Health – Abu Dhabi (DoH), which promotes innovation and collaboration under the theme “Towards Longevity: Redefining Health and Well-being.”

The summit will feature a diverse array of activities, including immersive experiences, strategic discussions, and collaborative partnerships. It is expected to gather industry experts, policymakers, healthcare leaders, academics, researchers, innovators, and practitioners to exchange knowledge and explore innovations that integrate TCIM with conventional medicine. The event will also highlight the UAE’s rich heritage of traditional medicine while addressing governance, research, education, investment, and accessibility to ensure safe and effective patient journeys.

Dr. Asma Al Mannaei, Executive Director of the Health Life Sciences Sector at the Department of Health – Abu Dhabi, emphasized that the Al Shifaa Summit marks a pivotal moment in the UAE’s efforts to deliver patient-centered healthcare. She noted that the summit is inspired by the nation’s traditional medicine heritage and aims to bridge the gap between conventional and traditional medicine through collaboration, research, and education. Dr. Al Mannaei expressed anticipation for the contributions from partners in advancing holistic, evidence-based healthcare solutions in Integrative Medicine.

The summit will kick off with a keynote address from His Excellency Mansoor Al Mansoori, Chairman of the Department of Health – Abu Dhabi, who will underscore the significance of integrative medicine and pave the way for transformative discussions. Over the three days, the summit will host high-level panel discussions, interactive booths, and cultural demonstrations, providing an in-depth examination of TCIM’s role in conventional healthcare.

Among the notable presentations, Dr. Kim Sungchol, Head of the Traditional, Complementary and Integrative Unit at the World Health Organization (WHO), will discuss global strategies for integrating TCIM into national healthcare systems. The panel discussions will cover various topics, including Regulatory Frameworks and Governance, Evidence-Based Practices, IM Research and Innovation, Workforce Development and Education, Consumer Trust and Awareness, and the historical context of Traditional Medicine in the UAE.

Additionally, the Knowledge Exchange Booths will serve as collaborative spaces for industry and academic leaders to share best practices and showcase advancements in Integrative Medicine. These four dedicated booths will focus on Workforce and Education, Research, Innovative Solutions, and Consumer and Practitioner Awareness, featuring interactive displays and networking opportunities with key stakeholders in the field.

The summit will also include a unique exhibition inspired by the falaj, showcasing medicinal flora and offering visitors an immersive journey into traditional medicine, local healers, and the future of Integrative Medicine. For more information about the Al Shifaa Summit, including its agenda and participation details, interested individuals can visit the official channels on Instagram and LinkedIn.