Geneva: The United Arab Emirates is actively participating in the 79th World Health Assembly (WHA79), a significant global health event convened by the World Health Organisation in Geneva from 18-23 May 2026. As the premier decision-making body in global health governance, the World Health Assembly unites health ministers, government officials, international organizations, and global health leaders to foster international cooperation, address pressing public health priorities, and shape the trajectory of global health policy.
According to Emirates News Agency, the UAE's involvement underscores its ongoing commitment to enhancing healthcare systems that are resilient and prepared for the future. This is achieved through a focus on prevention, innovation, preparedness, and international collaboration. During WHA79, the UAE delegation will engage in plenary sessions, bilateral meetings, technical discussions, and side events. These events will address various priority topics such as preventive healthcare, digital health, artificial intelligence, health innovation, organ donation and transplantation, healthy ageing, and health emergency preparedness.
Furthermore, the UAE will actively participate in discussions concerning universal health coverage, pandemic preparedness, health system resilience, climate change and health, and the future of AI-enabled healthcare systems. Dr. Maha Barakat, who leads the UAE delegation, highlighted the importance of resilient healthcare systems and international collaboration in tackling global health challenges. She emphasized the UAE's commitment to innovation-driven healthcare solutions and strengthening international partnerships for global health advancement.
The UAE delegation will also spotlight several national health priorities and initiatives, including preventive healthcare, healthier food systems, digital health transformation, healthy ageing, organ donation, and health workforce development. They plan to engage in bilateral meetings with ministers, international organizations, and global health partners to enhance collaboration, exchange expertise, and explore partnership opportunities in priority healthcare sectors.
In addition, the UAE will host a side event titled 'From Awareness to Action: Advancing Global Best Practices in Organ Donation and Transplantation,' showcasing the UAE's Hayat programme as a national model for ethical and sustainable transplantation systems. The UAE will also take part in the WHO Public Health Prizes and Awards Ceremony, where the UAE Health Foundation Prize will be awarded to Dr. Worawit Tontiwattanasap of Thailand for his significant contributions to health development.
The UAE's participation at WHA79 highlights its evolving role as a proactive participant in global health dialogue and its dedication to developing integrated healthcare systems that emphasize resilience, innovation, prevention, sustainability, and international cooperation. This commitment aligns with the goals of the 'We the UAE 2031' initiative.