Launch of the European-Arab Medical Congress in Abu Dhabi, Coinciding with World Mental Health Day
Abu Dhabi – 10 October 2025
Coinciding with the celebration of World Mental Health Day, the official ceremony of the second edition of the European Arab Medical Congress took place this morning at the Abu Dhabi Energy Center, with the participation of over 800 specialists from 30 countries, around 60 international speakers, and the presentation of 30 accredited research papers. The global scientific event brings together ministers, decision-makers, healthcare leaders, and researchers from Europe and the Arab world.
This year, the congress is held under the theme “Practical Approaches in Rehabilitation Medicine and Psychology”, jointly organized by Zayed Authority for People of Determination and Emirates Scholar Center for Research and Studies, supported by the Abu Dhabi National Oil Company (ADNOC) and the Abu Dhabi Convention and Exhibition Bureau, in partnership with the Emirates Medical Association and the European Medical Association.
The event aims to enhance international cooperation in the fields of mental health, rehabilitation, and holistic care, while reinforcing Abu Dhabi’s position as a leading scientific hub connecting the Arab world and Europe in the medical field. It also contributes to advancing mental and physical healthcare systems and fostering innovation in clinical practices.
During the opening ceremony, H.E. Dr. Abdulla Belhaif Al Nuaimi, Chancellor of Emirates Scholar Center for Research and Studies and Chairman of the Sharjah Consultative Council, delivered a welcoming address, stating:
“The convening of this congress, coinciding with World Mental Health Day, reaffirms the UAE’s steadfast commitment to supporting global efforts aimed at raising awareness on mental health and achieving balance between body and mind as part of the comprehensive development journey. Mental healthcare and medical rehabilitation are integral to the nation’s vision of building a cohesive society that enjoys well-being and quality of life”.
He added:
“Hosting this major international event in Abu Dhabi reflects its status as a leading center for knowledge exchange and scientific research and its active role in developing innovative, applied solutions in mental health and rehabilitation. This initiative embodies our deep belief in investing in people as both the foundation and purpose of sustainable development, while strengthening partnerships between experts from Europe and the Arab world to build more inclusive and humane medical systems.”
For his part, H.E. Abdulla Abdulalee Al Humaidan, Director-General of Zayed Authority for People of Determination, emphasized that holding this second edition reflects the UAE’s and its wise leadership’s commitment to building an inclusive and healthy society that places human well-being at the core of its priorities, further solidifying Abu Dhabi’s position as a global hub for scientific research and innovation.
He stated:
“The recommendations from the previous congress served as a guiding light for us, making scientific research and innovation a key pillar of the Authority’s strategy. Through partnerships with national and international institutions, such as the Emirates Scholars Center and the European Medical Association, we have advanced the development of cutting-edge solutions in artificial intelligence, medical robotics, and early detection and smart rehabilitation programs, all contributing to improving the quality of life and independence of People of Determination”.
He noted that Zayed Authority for People of Determination has practically implemented the recommendations of the previous edition through specialized programs in smart rehabilitation, continuous medical education, and expanded research and medical partnerships. One of the most notable outcomes, he added, was the launch of the “Psychology Dictionary for Scientific Research” Award as part of the UAE-Russian Dictionary Project, implemented in collaboration with Ural Federal University (Russia) and the Emirates Scholar Center for Research and Studies, with the winners to be announced at the conclusion of the congress.
Meanwhile, Dr. Fawaz Habbal, Director-General of Emirates Scholar Center for Research and Studies, Board of Trustees Member, highlighted that the congress serves as a unique scientific platform aimed at applying scientific research outcomes to serve humanity and society. He pointed out that this edition’s focus on rehabilitation medicine and psychology reflects the Center’s strategic direction toward strengthening the role of knowledge and innovation in advancing healthcare systems.
The congress program features over 15 specialized scientific sessions showcasing the latest advancements in psychiatry, neuroscience, and rehabilitation medicine, focusing on cognitive and behavioral therapy protocols, innovations in treating depression and anxiety disorders, the use of AI and robotics in recovery programs, and personalized therapeutic models for children, the elderly and People of Determination.
Organizers affirmed that hosting this event further establishes Abu Dhabi’s standing as an international platform for medical knowledge exchange and a regional hub for applied solutions in psychology and rehabilitation medicine, reinforcing the UAE’s scientific and humanitarian impact globally and reflecting its vision of empowering People of Determination, ensuring their quality of life, and achieving full social inclusion.
