His Excellency Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, Minister of Tolerance and Coexistence, has attended the 21st Emirates Society of Ophthalmology Annual Conference, held under His Excellency’s patronage in collaboration with international and regional ophthalmology associations.
Approved by the Department of Health - Abu Dhabi, the event provided continuous medical education at the Hilton Abu Dhabi Yas Island Hotel and lasted for three days from 3-5 February 2024, organised by the Emirates Society of Ophthalmology and supervised by the Emirates Medical Association.
With the support of the Department of Culture and Tourism - Abu Dhabi, the conference offered a rich scientific programme on the latest diagnostics, surgical techniques, scientific studies and research in the field of ophthalmology. The programme also included dozens of workshops that provided the opportunity for doctors, optometrists, nurses, and technicians to refine their medical and surgical skills and acquire new insights on the latest research and scientific updates.
The conference hosted international leading speakers from the US, the UK, Japan, other countries from across the globe and several leading ophthalmologists from the UAE and the Middle East region. A platform for sharing knowledge, updates and research in various eye diseases and modern treatments, the conference has witnessed growing success, every year hosting numerous exhibitors and pharmaceutical companies to showcase their new products and devices.
In his speech at the opening ceremony, His Excellency Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan stressed the importance of such scientific conferences in line with the direction of the wise leadership of the UAE and its commitment to promoting excellent health care and advanced medical practice. His Excellency commended the efforts of the Emirates Society of Ophthalmology and its members for sharing UAE experiences and local achievements in this field.
Sheikha Dr. Noura Al Qassimi, President of the Emirates Society of Ophthalmology, said: “The conference covers many topics such as cataract surgery, glaucoma, corneal transplantation, and vision correction. The conference also addresses the latest treatments related to retinal diseases and optic nerve disorders.”
She added that more than 1,600 participants from around the world attended the conference, with more than 200 leading speakers in various sub-specialties of ophthalmology, focusing on the latest developments in surgical treatments and diagnostic procedures. 300 scientific papers are also discussed and showcased as part of the scientific program of the conference.
Dr. Maysoon Al Karam, Chair of the Conference’s Steering Committee, said: “Among the prominent scientific sessions this year is a session presented by the Orbis Flying Eye Hospital, the only teaching hospital for ophthalmology in the world aboard an MD-10 aircraft, and a scientific symposium presented by the American Academy of Ophthalmology, which showcased the latest developments in the field of retinal diseases. We also have a dedicated session on the use of stem cells in ophthalmology, hosting experts from Japan and the UAE. We trust this conference provides an ideal opportunity for intellectual exchange and knowledge sharing on a global and local level.”
Every year, the conference helps to highlight the efforts of the UAE, represented by the Emirates Society of Ophthalmology, in supporting research and education by strengthening ties with regional and international associations in ophthalmology, and exploring opportunities for constructive cooperation and knowledge exchange in the field.
