Bridging the gap: how WHX Tech’s Connections Programme is revolutionising healthcare investment

This September, Dubai becomes the meeting point for global leaders shaping the future of digital health at WHX Tech — where innovation, investment, and collaboration come together. Taking place from 8–10 September 2025 at the Dubai World Trade Centre, the meeting is expected to draw more than 5,000 professionals, 300 brands and 200 speakers.

It comes at a time when healthcare systems globally are grappling with rising costs, ageing populations and growing demand for more personalised care.

The inaugural event is being held under the patronage of the UAE Ministry of Health and Prevention, Dubai Health Authority, Dubai Health, Emirates Drug Establishment and Emirates Health Services, in partnership with HIMSS.

Sessions will explore developments in areas such as artificial intelligence, robotics, telehealth and health data. According to Solenne Singer, vice president – healthcare at Informa Markets, WHX Tech reflects “the global demand for innovation hubs that accelerate the adoption of digital health solutions.”

A more structured approach to networking

Beyond panels and product demos, WHX Tech introduces the Connections Programme: a curated initiative designed to make networking more purposeful.

Through pre-arranged one-to-one meetings and tailored introductions, exhibitors will connect directly with healthcare decision-makers. Instead of unfocused conversations, the programme ensures that solution providers meet buyers with clear needs and purchasing authority — turning time at WHX Tech into real opportunities.

Who it’s designed for

The Connections Programme targets two groups. For healthcare providers and buyers, it offers access to new technologies and partners in areas such as diagnostics, digital health and medtech.

For solution providers, it presents an opportunity to meet organisations with genuine interest in adopting or investing in innovation.

To take part, buyers must meet certain criteria — including working with a recognised healthcare provider, having decision-making responsibility, and being in active need of new solutions or partnerships.

This vetting process, organisers say, is intended to ensure that meetings are relevant and valuable for both sides.

Broader context

The initiative sits within a wider agenda of positioning Dubai as a hub for digital health.

WHX Tech is aligned with the UAE’s National AI Strategy 2031 and supports global priorities such as the World Health Organization’s digital health goals.

By convening stakeholders across government, healthcare and technology, the event aims to highlight practical pathways for deploying innovation at scale.

As Alain Bernard Labrique, director of digital health & innovation at the World Health Organization, has observed: “The ecosystem is the key for success of the innovation and growth in digital health.”

The Connections Programme reflects that principle, providing a more structured framework for the collaborations that underpin sector progress.

• To learn more about the Connections Programme, click here: https://www.worldhealthexpo.com/events/healthcare/tech/en/whats-on/features/connections-programme.html