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

OpenAI said it will introduce parental controls for its AI chatbot, ChatGPT, aiming to enhance protections for teenage users amid growing scrutiny over its handling of vulnerable individuals.

OpenAI’s blog post stated the new tools are expected to launch “within the next month,” allowing parents to link their accounts to those of teens aged 13 and above, enforce age-appropriate model behaviour rules, disable features like memory and chat history, and receive automatic notifications if their child shows signs of acute emotional distress.

OpenAI to add more robust reasoning models

To handle sensitive situations more effectively, the company will also route such conversations to more robust “reasoning” models.

The update follows a lawsuit filed by the parents of a 16-year-old California teen who died by suicide, alleging that ChatGPT provided harmful and detailed instructions that exacerbated the outcome.

Read: OpenAI rolls out new shopping features with ChatGPT search update

DP World said on Tuesday it is investing $2.5bn in logistics infrastructure projects around the globe this year, a move that is generating almost 5,000 new construction jobs across five countries.

The international supply chain solutions company, which employs more than 100,000 people directly, said the investment will support major transport developments in India, Britain, Ecuador, Senegal and the Democratic Republic of Congo.

“We are delighted that our investment is providing jobs for almost 5,000 people this year alone to help deliver major upgrades to the transport infrastructure of five different countries,” Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem, group chairman and CEO of DP World, said in a statement.

Bin Sulayem added that trade “has the potential to transform people’s lives” and that the projects would leave a legacy of “world class logistics infrastructure” that would benefit customers, communities and continents for decades.

Read: Dubai’s DP World posts 20.4% rise in H1 revenue

Job creation across DP world operations

India, a key growth market, will see 2,500 new roles created this year, including 2,000 jobs tied to a new terminal at Tuna Tekra in the northwest and another 500 through DP World’s inland and rail terminals.

In Senegal, construction of a deep-sea port at Ndayane is generating 600 jobs, while in the Democratic Republic of Congo, the new Port of Banana will create about 500 roles.

In Britain, DP World’s $1bn expansion of London Gateway is adding 1,000 jobs as the company builds two new berths and a second rail terminal at a site it says could become the country’s largest port by the end of the decade.

On the other side of the Atlantic, Ecuador’s DP World Posorja expansion is generating more than 300 construction roles and over 100 direct operational jobs.

DP World said the new infrastructure will support thousands of additional direct and indirect jobs once operational. Its flagship Jebel Ali free zone in Dubai already directly employs 160,000 people.

The company said it is building “a unique array of assets and suite of capabilities globally” to help customers remain competitive in an increasingly unpredictable trading environment.

Athar – Saudi Festival of Creativity, the Kingdom’s largest gathering of the creative marketing industry, has revealed major highlights for its third edition, including a new venue, expanded programme, and an influential lineup of speakers.

Organised by Motivate Media Group and TRACCS, with the support of partners MBC Media Solutions (MMS) and flynas, the event will take place on 21–22 October 2025 at JAX District – Diriyah Biennale Foundation.

Athar Festival 2025 is expected to attract over 3,000 attendees across two days, featuring more than 150 speakers, 80 activations, and five content stages. The festival reflects Saudi Arabia’s growing role as a regional and global hub for marketing, communications, and creative industries.

“Since its debut in 2023, Athar Festival has grown alongside the Kingdom’s creative marketing landscape in both scale and reach. This journey has led to a third edition that is set to be our biggest, boldest, and most dynamic yet, a testament to how far we’ve come in such a short time and a reflection of the industry’s boundless potential. Today and for years to come, we’re proud to continue building a platform where talents from every background can connect, learn, and thrive,” said Ian Fairservice, chairman of Athar Festival and managing partner of Motivate Media Group.

Mohamed Al Ayed, vice chairman of Athar Festival and CEO of TRACCS, added: “Athar Festival is once more taking shape in Riyadh, and I could not be more excited to welcome local, regional, and international talent to this landmark celebration of creativity. With an exemplary lineup of speakers, industry experts, brands, sponsors, activations, and young talent, this year’s edition is set to ignite fresh ideas, spark greater collaborations that transcend borders, and unlock new opportunities for creative expression. Athar is not just a festival – it is a movement amplifying Saudi Arabia’s creative potential on the global stage and empowering a new generation of local talent to inspire a culture of creativity across the Kingdom.”

The 2025 edition will see participation from more than 80 sponsors and partners, with MMS returning as Growth Partner and flynas as Official Airline Partner. Other key partners include the Saudi Tourism Authority, Amazon Ads, Bloomberg Media, Omnicom Group, WPP, MCN, King Salman Park Foundation, Bassmat, Onsor Mosha, Sadu Media, and Stagwell.

Highlighting the importance of the partnership, Ahmed Al Sahhaf, CEO of MBC Media Solutions, said: “MBC Media Solutions proudly continues its partnership with Athar Festival, building on the success of the past two editions in achieving shared objectives and delivering exceptional creative experiences. This year, as the festival evolves, we are committed to broadening the scope of engagement with attendees, sharing our expertise with them, and presenting diverse media perspectives. We also aim to introduce the creative marketing community to innovative and renewed ways of reaching the right audience at the right time.”

The speaker lineup includes Mo Gawdat, bestselling author and former CBO at Google; Jo Malone, founder and creative director at Jo Loves; Ellie Norman, CMO of Formula E; and Ali Ali, co-founder and film director at Good People Films. Athar Festival 2025 will also introduce four new content streams: Creative Impact, Future Forward, Screen & Influence, and Luxury & Lifestyle.

The expanded 6,000+ sqm festival footprint will include the Activation Hall with 80+ brand activations, a Talent Hub for companies to engage with young professionals, a Ruwad Hub for entrepreneurs and emerging agencies, and a Networking Hub to connect regional and international industry leaders.

Content will run across five stages, including the Strategic and Spotlight Stages for keynotes and panels, the Saudi Gamer Arena focusing on esports, the Community Stage for workshops and community-led sessions, and the Courtyard Stage offering live music, wellness, and entertainment.

Returning initiatives include the Young Talent Academies and Maheerah Programme, both aimed at nurturing young professionals and empowering women in marketing. The Future CMO Academy will also return with an intensive programme for senior leaders.

The festival will conclude with the Athar Awards, celebrating outstanding work across more than 30 categories, including 14 new additions for 2025.

More details are available at atharfestival.com.

The GCC is at the forefront of a transformation unlike anything seen before, where futuristic visions are becoming tangible realities. Across the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Qatar, governments are pouring billions of dollars into mega projects that promise to redefine economic growth, urban living, and environmental stewardship in the Middle East.

These projects are not mere infrastructural enhancements; they are a part of a broader strategy to diversify economies away from oil dependency, promote sustainability, and create vibrant communities that attract global talent and tourists alike. From a well connected transport systems to regenerative tourism and entertainment hubs, the GCC’s evolving skyline tells a story of innovation, and resilience.

Read more-Asian Paints Global CEO on CureAssure’s role in redefining sustainable construction in GCC

In this article, we explore ten developments driving the GCC’s next chapter, initiatives that showcase the power of planning and technology in building the cities and industries of tomorrow.

1. Etihad Rail: The UAE’s new lifeline for connectivity and growth

Imagine a platform stretching across the entire UAE, connecting bustling ports, industrial zones, and urban centers with efficiency. This is the promise of the Etihad Rail project, an infrastructure set to revolutionise the way people and goods move across the nation.

Spanning all seven emirates, the rail network is poised to become the backbone of the UAE’s logistics ecosystem, cutting transport times, lowering costs, and reducing environmental impact. “Etihad Rail is an economic artery that supports the UAE’s journey to the future,” said a senior official overseeing the project. “It embodies the spirit of the Union, fostering sustainability and seamless connectivity.”

Beyond its economic role, Etihad Rail symbolises national unity, tying together diverse emirates into one integrated transport system. As the trains glide across deserts and cities alike, the project reflects a vision of progress and sustainability, helping to ease road congestion and curb carbon emissions for generations to come.

2. THE LOOP: Dubai’s climate-controlled cycling revolution

Picture a 93-kilometre ribbon of urban paradise where pedestrians and cyclists glide in comfort, shielded from the desert heat by climate control. This is THE LOOP, Dubai’s answer to urban mobility and healthy living.

Designed to connect more than 3 million residents, THE LOOP will transform the city into a “20-minute city” where key services, parks, and neighborhoods are reachable by foot or bike. Its vision is bold: to make walking and cycling the primary mode of daily transport for over 80 per cent of Dubai’s residents by 2040.

In a region known for its car culture and extreme climate, THE LOOP’s temperature-regulated pathways and smart infrastructure represent a paradigm shift. This project is more than just a bike path; it’s a new lifestyle, championing wellness, sustainability, and urban design.

3. Dubai Metro Gold Line: Connecting the old with the new

As Dubai’s population balloons, so too does the demand for efficient public transit. Enter the Dubai Metro Gold Line, a new artery threading through some of the city’s most historic and rapidly developing areas.

Stretching from Al Ghubaiba in Bur Dubai to the communities of Business Bay, Meydan, and Dubailand, the Gold Line will relieve pressure on the busy Red Line while enhancing accessibility. For residents and visitors alike, it will be a sleek, modern corridor bridging the city’s past and future.

This expansion underscores Dubai’s commitment to tackling congestion and enhancing urban livability, while supporting the growth of new economic zones and tourism hotspots.

4. Urban Tech District: Dubai’s green innovation powerhouse

In the Al Jaddaf district, a new address for sustainable innovation is rising, the Urban Tech District. This carbon-neutral development will serve as a crucible for cutting-edge urban technologies aimed at addressing the complex challenges posed by urbanisation.

The district is designed to be a dynamic ecosystem, hosting startups, research centers, and venture capital firms dedicated to breakthroughs in zero-mile food production, renewable energy, water harvesting, and waste-to-energy solutions.

More than a tech park, it’s a living laboratory where the future of urban living will be tested and perfected. With plans to create 4,000 green jobs, the Urban Tech District is central to Dubai’s vision of becoming a global hub for sustainable innovation.

5. The Red Sea Project: A model for regenerative luxury tourism

Off Saudi Arabia’s western coast, a new kind of luxury resort is taking shape, one that celebrates nature while safeguarding it. The Red Sea Project is a solid effort to create a sustainable, regenerative tourism destination.

Phase One has already introduced five resorts alongside an international airport, setting the stage for 16 luxury hotels spread across islands and inland sites. By 2030, the project aims to house 50 hotels with 8,000 rooms, carefully calibrated to welcome no more than 1 million visitors annually, preserving the fragile coral reefs, mangroves, and desert landscapes.

A spokesperson for Red Sea Global summed it up: “The Red Sea will redefine sustainable travel, merging luxury with environmental stewardship.” It’s a blueprint for how tourism can coexist with conservation on a grand scale.

6. Dubai World Central: Building the world’s largest airport hub

Dubai’s ambition to dominate global air travel is embodied in Dubai World Central (DWC), also known as Al Maktoum International Airport.

Originally opened in 2013, DWC has grown from a cargo and charter hub into an aviation gateway.

With a future expansion plan unveiled in 2024, the airport will soon boast five runways and the staggering capacity to handle 150 million passengers annually, triple that of Dubai’s main airport today. Its long-term goal is 260 million passengers per year, supported by cargo capabilities exceeding 12 million tonnes.

This mega-airport will not only serve as a transit hub but also stimulate surrounding economic zones, creating a new ecosystem of commerce, logistics, and tourism.

7. Qiddiya City: Saudi Arabia’s playground for the future

Imagine a city where theme parks, sports arenas, and cultural venues collide. This is Qiddiya City, Saudi Arabia’s bold investment in entertainment and lifestyle as part of its Vision 2030 agenda.

Set against a backdrop of desert and rocky landscapes near Riyadh, Qiddiya aims to become the region’s entertainment capital, attracting millions of visitors and creating thousands of jobs.

More than fun and games, Qiddiya represents economic diversification and social transformation, bringing arts, sports, and leisure together to enhance quality of life and global tourism appeal. “Qiddiya isn’t just a city of attractions, it’s a city of dreams,” a project leader remarked.

8. Palm Jebel Ali: Dubai’s grand island of luxury and nature

Following a significant redesign, Palm Jebel Ali is Dubai’s most significant island development yet. Nearly twice the size of the famed Palm Jumeirah, this man-made development stretches nearly four miles long, with 17 fronds and a protective crescent shoreline that doubles as a vibrant promenade.

Residents will enjoy panoramic beach views, luxury villas with expansive windows, and a lifestyle built around health and wellness, walkable streets shaded by lush greenery, parks for recreation, and direct beach access.

Located near the ecological haven of the Jebel Ali Marine Sanctuary, Palm Jebel Ali embodies a delicate balance between luxury living and environmental mindfulness, making it a testament to Dubai’s evolving vision of sustainable urban growth.

9. Qatar’s North Field expansion: Powering the global energy transition

In the energy-rich Gulf, Qatar is doubling down on its gas production with the North Field East expansion project. Set to increase liquefied natural gas (LNG) output from 77 million to 126 million metric tons per year by 2027, this initiative is critical to meeting rising global energy demands.

The project, with phased production starting mid-2026, has already secured contracts with energy consumers in Europe and Asia, positioning Qatar as a cornerstone of energy security in a volatile world.

“Qatar’s expansion is a for global LNG supply,” said CEO Saad Al Kaabi, highlighting the country’s commitment to energy innovation and economic resilience.

10. Disney Magic on Yas Island: A New Era of Entertainment

The Middle East is about to welcome its first-ever Disney theme park resort on Abu Dhabi’s famed Yas Island, a landmark that signals the region’s rising clout in global entertainment.

Joining an already impressive roster of attractions including Ferrari World, Warner Bros. World, and SeaWorld, the Disney resort promises world-class experiences that will attract families and tourists from across the globe.

Though the opening date remains under wraps, the project symbolises more than fun; it heralds a cultural and economic milestone, further cementing Abu Dhabi as a destination for leisure and tourism.

Forging a future of innovation, sustainability, and growth

The GCC region is undergoing a transformation, driven by a portfolio of mega projects that are redefining the frontiers of urban development, tourism, transportation, and energy.

From the expansive network of Etihad Rail to the reimagined coastline of Palm Jebel Ali, each initiative forms a critical component of a broader strategic vision.

Collectively, these projects represent a decisive shift away from traditional hydrocarbon dependency, signaling a long-term commitment to innovation, environmental stewardship, and global integration.