IPS strengthens regional role with launch of new meningitis vaccine in UAE

Gulf Today, Staff Reporter

Dubai: The International Pediatric Summit (IPS) concluded at the Hilton Habtoor City Hotel in Dubai, attended by Sheikha Dr Hind Al Qasimi, President of the Emirates Free Professions Club, along with many healthcare specialists.

One of the summit’s major highlights was the launch of a new meningitis vaccine, with the UAE becoming the first country outside the United States to introduce the vaccine after its launch in America—an important step in strengthening preventive healthcare for children.

Dr Intisar Al Hammadi, Consultant Pediatric Nephrologist, President of the Emirates Pediatric Society, and Head of Quality and Patient Safety at Dubai Health, stated that the 2026 Diamond Edition of the summit reflects the UAE’s commitment to becoming a global hub for medical excellence, education, and scientific collaboration. Through the Emirates Pediatric and Neonatal Society, the summit serves as a platform that brings together international experts, physicians, and decision-makers to exchange knowledge and improve the quality of pediatric healthcare.

She noted that the summit also strengthens medical diplomacy by building cooperation between countries, healthcare institutions, and academic organizations, supporting research, innovation, and the development of highly qualified physicians. The event witnessed broad participation from international experts and institutions, highlighting the UAE’s growing role as a regional and global center for pediatrics.

Key outcomes included the launch of new educational and research initiatives, expanded cooperation among international scientific societies, and discussions on future strategies to address children’s health challenges amid rapid medical and technological advancements. The summit emphasized the importance of innovation, evidence-based medicine, and interdisciplinary collaboration in improving pediatric care.

Dr Islam Al-Baroudi, Professor and Consultant Pediatrician, Chief Medical Officer of Kids Heart Medical Centers, and Consultant Pediatrician at the Abu Dhabi Department of Health and Columbia University, noted that IPS has become a leading scientific platform in the region.

The summit attracted pediatric specialists from the UAE, the Gulf region, the Middle East, and Europe through specialized workshops and lectures offering Continuing Medical Education (CME) credits accredited by the Abu Dhabi Department of Health, the Dubai Health Authority, and international organizations.

An accompanying exhibition included more than 55 pharmaceutical and nutrition companies from the Gulf region, highlighting the summit’s role as a major hub for scientific and professional networking.

Sessions also addressed nutrition and children’s health, vaccine developments, and rare and genetic diseases, with support from the UAE government, the Emirates Pediatric Society, and the Arab Academy of Pediatrics, reinforcing the country’s position as a global center for medical advancement in pediatric medicine.