Abu Dhabi:The UAE Integrative Medicine Council (UAEIMC) has revealed four significant commitments during the opening of the second edition of the Al Shifaa Summit for Integrative Medicine in Abu Dhabi. These commitments aim to support the World Health Organisation's Global Traditional Medicine Strategy 2025-2034.

According to Emirates News Agency, these commitments align with the UAE Integrative Medicine Strategy and are designed to advance traditional, complementary, and integrative medicine. They highlight the UAE's dedication to promoting a human-centered healthcare approach that ensures the quality, safety, and efficacy of medical practices.

The four commitments include developing policies, regulatory frameworks, and clinical standards; fostering scientific research and innovation; enhancing education, workforce development, and public awareness; and expanding international cooperation and knowledge exchange. Sheikha Salama bint Tahnoon bin Mohammed Al Nahyan, Chairperson of the UAEIMC, emphasized the importance of integrating evidence-based traditional practices with conventional medicine to support a more comprehensive healthcare approach.

Sheikha Salama expressed confidence that collaboration with the WHO would align national priorities with global expertise and facilitate knowledge exchange. This collaboration is expected to bolster scientific research, standards, and professional capabilities within the UAE's healthcare system.

The commitments aim to establish national policies and regulatory frameworks for integrative medicine, create a national research agenda aligned with the WHO strategy, enhance education and workforce development, and promote international cooperation. These efforts are intended to strengthen the UAE's role in the global development of traditional, complementary, and integrative medicine.

The Al Shifaa Summit, part of the Abu Dhabi Future Health Summit 2026, runs until 22 October and gathers experts from around the world to discuss the integration of tradition, science, and the future of integrative medicine. The opening day featured panel discussions on regulation, quality, and accountability, with participation from WHO experts, the Ministry of Health and Prevention, and the Department of Health - Abu Dhabi, alongside international academics and industry leaders.

The event includes an interactive exhibition linking traditional knowledge with scientific research, education, and innovation, with ongoing sessions focusing on research, innovation, and traditional knowledge foundations.