Under the patronage of Sheikh Hamdan Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Award for Medical Sciences, the 1st International UAE Rare Disease Society Congress was an unforgettable experience for all participants. This congress that took place from the 25th to the 26th of February 2023 in InterContinental, Dubai Festival City, UAE, has attracted the attention of many individuals.

The extensive agenda was skillfully constructed to accommodate a wide range of topics for both patients and healthcare professionals interested in the field of rare diseases. The primary aim of the congress is to gather and raise awareness of the challenges and, more importantly, the opportunities to enhance the lives of those who are affected by diseases.

 Prof. Fatma Al Jasmi Congress President, Professor, and Chair of Genetic & Genomic Department at UAE University in Al Ain, UAE said that “This one-of-a-kind event will bring together important clinical practitioners, academics, and experts to debate community concerns both locally and worldwide.

The program of the congress consisted of 4 different tracks (Genetics and Metabolic, Basic Science, Patient, and Subspecialty) to inspire and enlighten attendees. The congress featured over 80 lectures and 8 workshops delivered by more than 120 speakers and committee members attracting more than 1200 attendees.

The 1st UAE Rare Disease Society Congress has been a remarkable achievement, offering a platform not just for knowledge-sharing but also for inspiration and increased awareness to enhance the lives of those impacted by rare diseases.