UAE Highlights Health Cooperation at OIC Conference

Ahmed bin Ali Al Sayegh, Minister of Health and Prevention (MoHAP), led the UAE delegation to the 8th Session of the Islamic Conference of Health Ministers of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), held in Jordan from October 7 to 9. The conference was organised under the theme “Health is our shared responsibility,” emphasizing the importance of collective efforts in healthcare development among OIC member states.

The event brought together Health Ministers from member countries, as well as representatives from regional and international health organisations, to discuss collaborative policies and frameworks for improving healthcare across the Islamic world.

UAE’s Commitment to Collective Health Efforts

In his address, Minister Ahmed Al Sayegh reaffirmed the UAE’s dedication to supporting the OIC’s mission of enhancing healthcare integration among its member nations. He noted that the UAE, guided by its wise leadership, consistently prioritizes cooperation, innovation, and sustainability in health development.

He stressed that the UAE aims to work closely with OIC members in building unified strategies that ensure universal health coverage and contribute to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Promoting Innovation and Shared Expertise

Al Sayegh highlighted the UAE’s readiness to share its successful healthcare practices and expertise with other OIC countries. He stated that collaboration in innovation, technology, and data exchange is essential to address today’s global health challenges.

He further emphasized the role of modern technologies and artificial intelligence (AI) in improving prevention, diagnosis, and treatment. According to him, the adoption of digital tools will help OIC member states create stronger and more efficient health systems capable of responding to emerging diseases and health crises.

UAE’s Achievements in Health Development

The Minister outlined the UAE’s progress in building a world-class healthcare system that integrates technology, research, and service accessibility. The country’s digital health ecosystem, developed in line with international standards, ensures that medical services remain both advanced and accessible to all segments of society.

Al Sayegh also explained how the UAE has developed proactive health strategies using AI, data analytics, and biotechnology. These efforts have made the nation a regional leader in medical innovation, regulation, and research. The UAE’s health policies are fully aligned with its long-term vision — the UAE Centennial 2071, which aims to position the country among the world’s most advanced nations.

Recognition of OIC’s Efforts and Cooperation

Al Sayegh praised the OIC’s continued work in fostering collaboration among member states in healthcare. He acknowledged the productive partnership between the OIC and the UAE during the country’s presidency of the 7th session in Abu Dhabi in 2019, noting that this cooperation was vital in the global COVID-19 response.

During the pandemic, the UAE provided logistical and humanitarian support to several OIC member countries, reaffirming its commitment to solidarity, joint action, and humanitarian assistance.

Focus on Strengthening Health Partnerships

On the sidelines of the conference, Minister Al Sayegh met with Dr. Malik Mukhtar Ahmad, Pakistan’s Minister of State for National Health Services, Regulations & Coordination. The two ministers explored opportunities to enhance bilateral cooperation in health, including exchange of medical experts, training programs, and joint projects in public health.

They also discussed plans to sign memorandums of understanding (MoUs) covering areas such as organ transplantation, biotechnology, and research collaboration. Both sides expressed their commitment to deepening cooperation that would benefit citizens of both nations and strengthen regional health networks.

UAE’s Vision for Global Health Leadership

The UAE’s active role in the OIC Health Ministers’ Conference demonstrates its strong global health diplomacy and its desire to contribute to the wellbeing of communities worldwide. The nation continues to champion innovation, sustainability, and inclusivity in healthcare, fostering partnerships that enable the sharing of knowledge and best practices.

As the conference concluded, Minister Al Sayegh reiterated that health is indeed a shared responsibility, and that through cooperation, modern technology, and mutual support, OIC countries can build a healthier, more resilient future together.