Dubai:The 2026 Emirates Thoracic Society (ETS) Annual Congress commenced in Dubai, marking a significant milestone as the United Arab Emirates becomes the first country in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region and the Middle East to adopt robotically-assisted bronchoscopy technology. This advancement is introduced by Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi, enabling access to the smallest lung nodules deep within the lungs for early-stage cancer diagnosis without the need for open surgery.

According to Wam, the two-day medical conference gathers over 20 international experts and more than 650 specialists in thoracic and respiratory medicine. The event serves as a dynamic platform for sharing the latest evidence-based practices, presenting emerging research, and fostering multidisciplinary collaboration.

Sheikha Dr. Noura Khalid Al Qasimi, President of the Emirates Medical Association (EMA), inaugurated the conference, organized by the Association's thoracic medicine and surgery division. She emphasized the event's focus on the latest scientific and medical developments in thoracic and respiratory disease diagnosis and treatment.

The opening ceremony included a recognition event honoring visionaries and leaders in respiratory medicine as part of the ETS Annual Award for Research and Innovation in Respiratory Medicine (ETS-AIR). This award aims to recognize outstanding contributions in the field and bridge the gap between scientific discovery and clinical application.

Prof. Ashraf Alzaabi, President of the Emirates Thoracic Society, highlighted the UAE's achievements, including becoming one of three countries worldwide to use advanced medications for lung cancer and pulmonary fibrosis treatment. He acknowledged the UAE's leadership for its commitment to providing state-of-the-art medical services.

Professor Alzaabi also mentioned ongoing research in collaboration with Khalifa University and the Department of Health - Abu Dhabi. This study investigates genetic variations linked to airway diseases in the UAE compared to global variations, aiming for more accurate treatment predictions.

The conference will feature high-level scientific exchanges covering various specialized medical topics, including lung cancer treatment, interstitial lung diseases, and advances in treatments for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), among others.