Dubai: The Emirates Orthopaedic Association has highlighted notable trends in orthopaedic surgery during the 13th Emirates Orthopaedic Society Meeting, held in Dubai alongside the First Gulf Knee Course.
The event has attracted leading international surgeons and consultants, discussing the latest advancements in joint and fracture surgery, artificial intelligence, and robotic-assisted procedures.
Experts have expressed strong support for health initiatives launched under the UAE’s leadership, including the ‘Dubai Mallathon’ introduced by HH Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum. The initiative aims to convert major shopping malls into safe, climate-controlled running and walking tracks during the hot summer months, reducing injuries related to inactivity and muscle weakness.
The conference also emphasized the UAE’s growing reputation as a medical tourism hub. Experts noted that patient confidence has surged since the COVID-19 pandemic, with a significant number of European residents now preferring the UAE for joint and fracture surgeries due to the high quality of care and advanced technologies.

Dr. Ali Al Belooshi, Conference Chairman and President of the Emirates Orthopaedic Association, announced a strategic partnership with a global sponsor that allows any new product approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to be immediately available in the UAE. Al Belooshi said that, this enables local surgeons to access the world’s latest technologies, robotic systems, and artificial joints without the delays common in many other countries.
Dr. Al Belooshi confirmed that the UAE is experiencing notable growth in joint replacement procedures, with approximately 2,500 knee replacements and 1,000 hip replacements performed annually. He explained that lifestyle changes, the extreme summer climate, and sudden resumption of sports activities after periods of inactivity contribute to the increasing demand for these surgeries.
According to the Emirates Orthopaedic Association, patients often experience muscle and bone weakness due to limited mobility during the three-month-long summer. When September arrives, many individuals resume intense physical activity, often under personal trainers’ guidance, which can result in various injuries. These factors underline the importance of preventive health initiatives and specialized orthopaedic care in the UAE.
Through its efforts, the Emirates Orthopaedic Association continues to support the UAE’s healthcare system, promote advanced orthopaedic treatments, and enhance patient outcomes, reinforcing the country’s position as a leader in medical excellence.

