DUBAI, United Arab Emirates — France will be represented by 98 companies at the World Health Expo Dubai in February 2026, one of the largest foreign delegations at the event, organisers said.
The four-day gathering, formerly Arab Health, opens on 9 February at the Dubai Exhibition Centre in Expo City. French firms will be spread across sections covering medical devices, orthopedics and rehabilitation, and radiology.
The UAE has been expanding its healthcare system as part of long-term national development plans, with nearly 5,000 facilities operating in Dubai in 2025. Authorities are also pushing digital systems, artificial intelligence tools and unified licensing platforms to modernise the sector.
France remains a significant supplier to the UAE, ranking fourth in pharmaceutical exports to the country in 2024, according to trade data.
Bilateral cooperation in health has grown in recent years. Strategic dialogues held in 2024 and 2025 identified healthcare as a priority area, leading to plans for joint research, academic partnerships and technical exchanges. French firms also took part in hospital visits and meetings with Abu Dhabi health officials during Global Health Week in 2025.
Companies exhibiting in 2026 will include suppliers of imaging systems, clinical nutrition, rehabilitation technologies, hospital logistics and environmental monitoring equipment.
“France is recognised for strong regulatory standards and research capacity,” said Axel Baroux, regional director at Business France, adding that these factors continue to support cooperation with Gulf states.
The expo marks its 50th edition this year and is expected to draw thousands of visitors from the Middle East, Europe, Asia and Africa.