Dubai has won the bid to host the World Congress of Neurology (WCN) in 2019, as the city focuses on business events for its economic development.

The WNC is organised by the World Federation of Neurology, an association of national neurological societies representing 119 neurological societies in all regions of the world. 

 “Dubai has hosted several international conferences across all fields and is known for its hospitality, excellent infrastructure and world-class facilities,” said HE Humaid Al Qatami, Chairman of the Board and Director-General of the DHA, speaking at the 22nd World Congress of Neurology in Chile in November 2015. 

“We look forward to hosting this conference in 2019 and we strongly believe that conferences are a platform that brings together experts from the region and abroad to discuss latest advances in the field. 

“Exchange of latest information and know-how is vital for growth and development, particularly in the medical field, which is ever-evolving.”

Business tourism is a large and growing global industry and an important cornerstone of Dubai’s economy.

“Conferences are big business and the number is growing worldwide, with a wider range of cities gaining market share,” said IOC Vice President Sir Craig Reedie in his opening address to Host City 2015, the leading EU-based meeting of cities and sports, business and cultural events. 

Previous editions of the WNC have attracted more than 5,000 delegates. 

“Presently, in the region, there are 4000 to 5000 neurologists and this conference presents an opportunity to discuss the latest advances and treatment methods in the field,” said Dr Suhail Al Rukn, head of stroke unit at Rashid Hospital and president of Emirates Neurological Society.

“This conference will help foster collaboration and cooperation with neurologists and neurological societies in the region and abroad.”

The next World Congress of Neurology takes place in Kyoto in Japan in 2017.