Reflections on Arab Health 2025
Our Commercial Manager Julie Stephens recently dived back into her old business development role on a trip to the Arab Health. She and Jarred Evans spent five days at the Dubai World Trade Centre immersing themselves in the exhibition, which has a rapidly growing reputation in the medical exhibition circuit. Read on to find out Julie’s thoughts on the event and the wider trends it reflects about the medical technology sector.
What are your thoughts on the set-up at Arab Health?
Having last attended Arab Health back in 2017, I was keen to return to see the traction the show has built for myself. I’d heard it was quickly expanding, and I was keen to learn of industry advancements within the healthcare sector. Additionally, comms from industry partners suggested we should have a presence in this rapidly growing expo. The show promised an overview of cutting-edge innovations and trends set to revolutionise the industry, and upon entry to the main expo halls you were instantly hit with eye catching AI technology and healthcare services across the stands.
What sort of conversations were you having?
I spoke to dozens of companies including both current and future potential clients. Conversations flowed and I was energised by the reception I received when discussing future new developments with exhibitors. It was clear there’s a desire to continue to develop new products and services even in the current turbulent economic climate.
What wider trends did you notice within the Medical Device Sector?
I think most noticeable was the big presence of AI and robotics in medical diagnostics. For example, the Emirates Health Services (EHS) were showcasing intelligent platforms and applications for strep throat and AI breast cancer screening. There was also a big showcase of the potential of Generative AI to analyse extensive patient data and provide tailored healthcare solutions.
Also on display was the increasing competency and reliability of wearable devices. These can facilitate remote patient monitoring and expand healthcare access, especially in underserved areas.
How did you find being back in the thick of things on your first overseas trip for a while?
What an experience, I loved every minute. The weather was beautiful, our exhibitor stand located on Trade and Invest Wales, Welsh Government stand was just great. Exhibiting alongside 11 other Welsh companies promoting our services was excellent. However, it’s not a case of waiting for work to find its way to you, you had to get out and find it – so Jarred and I would alternate to ensure that one of us would keep the stand manned whilst the other would be out listening and discussing with companies about how we could support their new development requirements.
Did the trip highlight any new opportunities for PDR to promote value within the industry?
Having so many international design awards means PDR is really easy to promote. As a design engineer myself with an inquisitive nature and good listening ear, I enjoy getting to understand a client’s needs and turning them into a tangible package of work. Lots of new opportunities were indeed uncovered and lots of great connections were made. I’m confident the company’s future developments are sure to lead to exciting new relationships being formed as well as products and services being developed.
