OHC explores medical tourism potential

MUSCAT: Looking towards the future of health, the Oman Health Conference 2026, held at the Oman Convention and Exhibition Centre, looked at medical tourism, while the accompanying exhibition brought together the expertise and innovations that are to shape the future of healthcare and free health consultations.
Organised by Connect, about 120 national, regional and international and 10 country pavilions have brought together their services and products for visitors to explore treatment options and access. Free. Health screenings, discovering new medical technologies, and the latest from pharmaceuticals as well as alternative and wellness therapies to support better health care.
The Ministry of Health is represented by the Directorate-General of Private Health Establishments. The three-day exhibition showcases the world-class health services available in the Sultanate of Oman. On the sidelines of the exhibition, a discussion was held on medical tourism.
Majid Zangooei, Secretary-General of HTD Centre, while speaking to Observer, said, “Oman has good opportunities when it comes to medical tourism, and it will be ideal to have cooperation between all the stakeholders in the field of health and wellness tourism. Wellness is a big part of medical tourism. One or two medical specialisations can be focused on. What has to change is the mindset that one has to go abroad for treatment.” Redha bin Juma al Saleh, board director, Oman Chamber of Commerce and Industry and vice-chairman of Lama Polyclinic, noted that Oman can be a distinct destination for health tourism.
“We should emphasise not only bringing in the patients but also considering the other aspects and growing the health tourism industry by bringing in the exploration of the country, culture, and business and providing the best health treatment. We need to specialise in certain areas.”
Sharing the experience of Abu Dhabi, UAE, Dr Wesal Freih, Head, Medical Tourism Sector, said, “It has been our strategic plan to look after the patient’s journey from the booking, the referral, medical treatment, security and quality.” Adding further, Hassah bint Saif al Mazrouei, Executive Head, Medical Tourism and Executive Services, Shaikh Shakhbout Medical City, said that they consider the patient and the family as a unit.
The Oman Health Exhibition will conclude on Wednesday, September 23rd.