WHX Tech kicks off today: Here’s what to expect on day one

Image credit: WHX Tech/Website

WHX Tech, the inaugural global meeting point for digital health leaders, innovators, investors, and policymakers, opens its doors today (8 September 2025) at the Dubai World Trade Centre.

Organised by Informa in partnership with HIMSS, the three-day event promises to showcase how AI, connected care, and emerging technologies are reshaping healthcare delivery and innovation.

With more than 300 brands on the exhibition floor and over 200 expert speakers confirmed, WHX Tech will deliver insights across three dedicated stages — World X, Xcelerate, and Future X. Day one is set to offer a strong start with high-level keynotes, expert discussions, and the launch of one of the region’s most anticipated startup competitions.

As part of the opening ceremony, H.E. Dr Amin Al Ameeri, assistant undersecretary of health regulations sector at the UAE Ministry of Health and Prevention (MOHAP), delivered a welcome address, followed by Peter Hall, president IMEA at Informa, who introduced the goals of the World X Stage and highlighted the importance of collaboration in driving digital health innovation; Dr Amer Sharif, CEO of Dubai Health, then gave an inaugural keynote on “Future-Proofing Healthcare – Building a Healthier World for Tomorrow,” followed by a keynote from H.E. Dr Fatima Al Kaabi, director general of the Emirates Drug Establishment, with Hal Wolf, president of HIMSS, concluding the session with a keynote titled “Digital Health Has a New Power Center: Why All Eyes Are on the Middle East.”

World X stage: Setting the agenda

The event opens with a ceremony that will set the tone for WHX Tech’s ambitions as a platform to accelerate digital health adoption. A key session will focus on the role of health informatics and data in advancing healthcare in the region. Dr. Mohammad Al Redha, director of Health Informatics & Smart Health at the Dubai Health Authority, will lead the conversation, joined by moderator Dr. David Rhew, global chief medical officer and VP of Healthcare at Microsoft.

Xcelerate stage: Spotlight on startups

Day one will also see the Xcelerate startup competition kick off, featuring more than 40 startups competing for a $50,000 cash prize. Beyond the pitch stage, entrepreneurs and investors will engage in practical discussions on scaling businesses post-investment.

• You’ve Acquired Funding, Now What? will feature Vusi Thembekwayo, group CEO of MyGrowthFund Venture Partners, exploring how founders can turn new capital into a 12-month growth roadmap, while avoiding common post-funding pitfalls.

• CVC’s Role in Fostering Innovation in Healthcare will open up the boardroom of corporate venture capital, with Dr. Susan Amat, CEO of Venture Hive, and Scott Lenet, partner at Cerity Partners, unpacking deal structures, founder autonomy, and the strategic versus financial value of CVCs.

Future X stage: Innovations in longevity

On the Future X stage, the spotlight turns to consumer-facing technologies with the potential to transform ageing and longevity. Dr. Richard Siow, director of Ageing Research at King’s College London, will discuss digital biomarkers of ageing and how scalable technologies can support lifestyle interventions and disease prevention.

A launchpad for healthcare transformation

By convening global leaders, disruptive startups, and capital providers under one roof, WHX Tech aims to accelerate collaboration and inspire solutions that will define the next generation of healthcare. Day one’s sessions offer a strong mix of regional priorities, investor insights, and breakthrough science — setting the stage for three days of high-impact dialogue and innovation.

To register, click here.