Abu Dhabi Hosts Largest WHO Emergency Medical Teams Global Meeting
Abu Dhabi has begun the sixth World Health Organization (WHO) Emergency Medical Teams (EMT) Global Meeting, the largest ever and the first in the Middle East. The event, held at the Conrad Abu Dhabi Etihad Towers hotel, runs until November 7, 2024. Organized by the Department of Health – Abu Dhabi (DoH) with WHO and the Ministry of Health and Prevention (MoHAP), it highlights Abu Dhabi’s role in global emergency medical preparedness.
Opening Ceremony and Key Figures
The opening ceremony featured remarks from Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, WHO Director-General, and Dr. Ahmed Abdulhadi Al Khazraji, Acting Director-General of the Abu Dhabi Public Health Centre. Other notable attendees included Dr. Noura Khamis Al Ghaithi, Matar Saeed Al Nuaimi, Dr. Saleh Fares Al Ali, and Dr. Abdul Karim Al Zarouni.
Focus on EMT 2030 Strategy
Dr. Tedros emphasized the importance of EMTs in global health emergencies, noting the conference’s role in advancing the EMT 2030 Strategy. Discussions include a panel on “Climate Change and Health Emergency,” featuring global health leaders like Dr. Michael J. Ryan and Dr. Rick Brennan.
Commitment to Global Health
Dr. Noura Khamis Al Ghaithi highlighted Abu Dhabi’s commitment to global health, tracing its healthcare evolution since 1960. Dr. Mohammed Salim Al Olama noted the UAE’s dedication to improving national preparedness and health emergency response.
Exhibitors and Innovations
The event features over 26 exhibitors showcasing advancements in emergency medicine and management, including the Abu Dhabi Civil Defence Authority and the Ministry of Defence.
Doubts Revealed
Abu Dhabi -: Abu Dhabi is the capital city of the United Arab Emirates, a country in the Middle East. It is known for its modern architecture and rich culture.
WHO -: WHO stands for the World Health Organization. It is a special agency of the United Nations responsible for international public health.
Emergency Medical Teams (EMTs) -: Emergency Medical Teams are groups of health professionals who provide care during emergencies, like natural disasters or disease outbreaks. They help save lives and support health systems in crisis situations.
MoHAP -: MoHAP stands for the Ministry of Health and Prevention. It is a government body in the United Arab Emirates responsible for health policies and services.
Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus -: Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus is the Director-General of the World Health Organization. He leads the organization in its efforts to improve global health.
Dr. Noura Khamis Al Ghaithi -: Dr. Noura Khamis Al Ghaithi is a health official involved in organizing the meeting. She plays a role in promoting health initiatives in Abu Dhabi.
EMT 2030 Strategy -: The EMT 2030 Strategy is a plan to improve and strengthen Emergency Medical Teams by the year 2030. It focuses on better preparedness and response to health emergencies.
Climate change and health emergencies -: Climate change refers to long-term changes in temperature and weather patterns. It can lead to health emergencies like heatwaves, floods, and diseases, affecting people’s health.
