UAE unveils four commitments to regulate traditional medicine with science-based standards
The UAE has introduced four new commitments designed to enhance the safety and quality of traditional and complementary medicine while reinforcing scientific research and healthcare regulations, the UAE Integrative Medicine Council (UAEIMC) announced on Tuesday.
The commitments were unveiled during the opening of the second Al Shifaa Summit for Integrative Medicine in Abu Dhabi, an event that aligns with the World Health Organization’s (WHO) Global Traditional Medicine Strategy 2025–2034. The strategy aims to integrate evidence-based traditional treatments with modern healthcare practices.
National policies and research agenda
The first commitment focuses on developing national policies and regulations for traditional, complementary and integrative medicine. This includes introducing clinical guidelines and standards to ensure treatments are safe, effective and backed by scientific evidence.
The second commitment calls for the creation of the UAE’s first national research agenda for integrative medicine. This agenda will guide scientific studies and encourage innovation in treatments that combine traditional practices with conventional medicine.
Education, training and international cooperation
The third commitment seeks to improve education and training for healthcare professionals, helping them better understand traditional and complementary treatments. It also includes public awareness initiatives to help patients make informed healthcare decisions.
The fourth commitment aims to strengthen cooperation with the WHO and international institutions through research, knowledge sharing and joint projects.
Sheikha Salama bint Tahnoon bin Mohammed Al Nahyan, Chairperson of the UAE Integrative Medicine Council, said the initiatives would support the country’s efforts to develop a healthcare system that blends traditional practices with modern medicine. She noted that the UAE is working to ensure traditional and complementary treatments are underpinned by scientific research and appropriate regulations. She also highlighted the importance of collaborating with international organisations to improve research, medical standards and professional training.
Summit details and participants
The commitments were announced during the Al Shifaa Summit for Integrative Medicine, being held at ADNEC Centre Abu Dhabi from October 20 to 22. The summit is part of the Abu Dhabi Future Health Summit 2026 and brings together healthcare professionals, researchers and international experts to discuss the future of integrative medicine.
Participants include representatives from the WHO, the Ministry of Health and Prevention, the Department of Health – Abu Dhabi, and several international universities. Discussions are focusing on the safety of traditional treatments, scientific research and ways to improve cooperation between healthcare institutions.
The summit also features an exhibition showcasing traditional medical knowledge alongside modern research and healthcare technologies. The event continues on Wednesday with discussions on research and innovation, followed by sessions on scientific evidence and traditional medical practices on Thursday.
