Dubai Hosts Landmark AYUSH Summit, Calls for Global Integration of Traditional and Modern Medicine
Dubai World Trade Centre
The Third International AYUSH Conference and Exhibition (IACE 2026) concluded in Dubai with a strong and unified call for integrating traditional systems of medicine with modern healthcare practices, marking a significant step toward a more holistic global health model.
Held at the Dubai World Trade Centre from February 15 to 17, the three-day conference brought together over 1,500 delegates, including policymakers, medical professionals, researchers, and industry leaders from around 30 countries. The event also attracted nearly 20,000 visitors, reflecting growing global interest in traditional healing systems.
The conference focused on AYUSH systems—Ayurveda, Yoga, Unani, Siddha, and Homeopathy—and their potential role in addressing modern health challenges such as lifestyle diseases, mental health disorders, and chronic conditions. Experts emphasized that these ancient practices, when supported by scientific validation, can complement contemporary medicine and improve patient outcomes.
A central theme of the conference was the need to move beyond parallel healthcare systems toward a more integrated approach. Speakers highlighted the importance of collaboration between countries, institutions, and disciplines to develop standardized protocols, promote joint research, and ensure quality assurance in AYUSH practices.
One of the key outcomes was the discussion and release of a draft international white paper on evidence-based AYUSH interventions, particularly focusing on mind-body health. The document aims to provide a framework for incorporating traditional therapies into mainstream healthcare systems worldwide.
Leaders at the event noted that AYUSH is no longer on the margins but is increasingly becoming part of the global health conversation. They stressed that the future of healthcare lies in a balanced model that combines the strengths of both traditional wisdom and modern scientific advancements.
The conference also explored emerging areas such as the use of artificial intelligence in AYUSH research, women and child health, and strategies for healthy aging. Participants agreed that the integration of these systems must be guided by rigorous research, transparency, and global cooperation.
As the curtains closed on IACE 2026, the message was clear: the path forward for global healthcare lies in unity—bringing together the best of ancient knowledge and modern medicine to create a more sustainable, inclusive, and effective healthcare system.
