Colorectal surgery conference concludes

The 3rd International Colorectal Surgery Conference concluded on Sunday at Raffles Dubai, in a high-level scientific event organised by the Emirates Society of Colorectal Surgery, under the leadership of Dr Sara Al Bastaki, Consultant Colorectal Surgeon and the first Emirati to lead an international conference in this highly specialised field.

The conference recorded a strong scientific presence with more than 60 experts from 20 countries, reaffirming the UAE’s ability to attract world-class medical talent and solidifying its position on the global medical stage.

Since the Society’s establishment in 2020 and the launch of the first conference in 2023, the Emirates Society — under Dr Sara Al Bastaki’s leadership — has achieved remarkable progress in just four years.

The Society has succeeded in building a competitive position among long-established global associations with over 20 years of experience, reflecting the UAE’s vision to advance medical education and empower national talent.

Throughout the conference, participants discussed the latest innovations in Robotic colorectal surgery, Minimally invasive surgical techniques. Artificial intelligence in surgical planning, Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) management and Colorectal cancer treatments. The programe also featured hands-on workshops and specialised training activities for residents and young surgeons, supporting professional development and strengthening the UAE’s medical education ecosystem.

Dr Sara Al Bastaki played a central role throughout the conference as a distinguished Emirati medical leader capable of advancing scientific progress in one of the most complex surgical specialties.

In her closing remarks, she emphasised that the conference’s success was the result of collective effort and shared vision, saying: “What we witnessed today reflects the UAE’s vision to be a hub for knowledge and innovation. The success of this edition is a testament to the capability of Emirati physicians and their readiness to lead and compete globally.”

The conference featured strong collaboration with leading international scientific institutions, including: European Crohn’s and Colitis Organisation (ECCO); Saudi Society of Colorectal Surgery and Open Source Research Initiative. These partnerships added significant scientific value and reinforced Dubai’s role as a destination where global expertise and medical innovation come together.

The conclusion of this year’s conference marks an important milestone for the Emirates Society of Colorectal Surgery, which has, in only a few years, become an influential scientific body both regionally and globally.