EHS International Mental Health Conference 2026

Stronger Together: Families, Communities, and a System Built for All

Mental health is a fundamental pillar of individual wellbeing, family stability, social cohesion, and sustainable national development. The theme of this conference, “Stronger Together: Families, Communities, and a System Built for All,” reflects the UAE’s strategic direction to establish an integrated model of mental healthcare that places individuals, families, and communities at its centre.

The designation of 2026 as the ‘Year of Family’ reinforces the essential role of families in promoting wellbeing, supporting early intervention, and building resilient communities. This direction is further strengthened by the implementation of the UAE’s Federal Decree-Law on Mental Health, which advances the protection of patients’ rights and dignity, promotes person-centred care, and enhances the governance and quality of mental health services.

In line with the UAE’s national priorities, Emirates Health Services is committed to strengthening prevention and early intervention, expanding integrated and community-based services, improving access to and continuity of care, and enhancing service quality and safety. Our strategic direction also includes advancing digital innovation, developing specialised workforce capabilities, using data and research to guide decision-making, and strengthening partnerships across sectors.

Building a responsive and sustainable mental health system requires the combined efforts of healthcare professionals, policymakers, researchers, families, communities, and strategic partners. This conference serves as an international platform for knowledge exchange, innovation, and collaboration, supporting the development of practical and scalable solutions that improve mental health outcomes.

Through shared responsibility and coordinated action, we can strengthen families, empower communities, and build an inclusive mental health system capable of meeting the needs of present and future generations.

Healthcare systems worldwide are undergoing a profound transformation. Advances in science, technology, and clinical practice are redefining how care is delivered, while growing expectations are driving a shift towards healthcare that is more accessible, integrated, proactive, and centred on people rather than diseases. In this evolving landscape, excellence can no longer be measured solely by clinical outcomes, but also by the ability of health systems to improve quality of life, promote wellbeing, and deliver care that is compassionate, equitable, and sustainable.

Mental health lies at the heart of this transformation. Across the world, there is increasing recognition that mental health must be fully integrated into healthcare systems through coordinated approaches that combine prevention, early intervention, treatment, rehabilitation, and community support. This reflects a broader movement towards holistic models of care that address the physical, psychological, and social dimensions of health, while responding to the changing needs and expectations of individuals and communities.

Since the launch of the EHS Mental Health Conferences, our journey has reflected this global evolution, helping advance dialogue on innovation, prevention, community-based care, and the future of health services. Today, these principles continue to guide Emirates Health Services as we strengthen integrated models of care that place individuals, families, and communities at the centre of service delivery. Guided by the UAE's ambition to be among the world's leading nations in health and wellbeing, we remain committed to advancing healthcare that reflects the highest standards of quality, safety, and clinical excellence through innovation, workforce development, strategic partnerships, and the adoption of international best practices.

I look forward to a conference that not only advances knowledge but also inspires meaningful action. By bringing together diverse expertise and shared purpose, we can strengthen the role of Emirates Health Services in advancing mental healthcare, supporting excellence across the healthcare system, and contributing to the UAE's vision of a resilient, world-class, and future-ready model of care that delivers lasting value for our communities.

It is my great pleasure to welcome you to the EHS International Mental Health Conference 2026. Mental health has become one of the most important determinants of individual wellbeing, family stability, and societal resilience. Across the world, there is growing recognition that healthier societies are built not only through high-quality healthcare services, but also through strong families, supportive communities, effective policies, and systems that work together to promote wellbeing, prevent illness, and support recovery. This evolving understanding has firmly positioned mental health as a critical driver of social development, human potential, and quality of life.

The theme of this year's conference, “Stronger Together: Families, Communities, and a System Built for All,” reflects both global trends and national priorities. It aligns closely with the UAE's Year of the Family and the implementation of the Federal Mental Health Law, reinforcing the importance of family-centred, community-oriented, and rights-based approaches to mental healthcare. More importantly, it challenges us to think beyond individual services and consider how families, schools, communities, healthcare providers, and policymakers can work together to create environments that support wellbeing and enable individuals and families to thrive.

Since its launch, the EHS Mental Health Conference has evolved alongside the changing mental health landscape. Beginning with a focus on the transformation of mental healthcare, and progressing through themes of innovation, empathy, and family empowerment, the conference has consistently provided a platform for advancing dialogue, sharing expertise, and translating knowledge into practice. Today, the conversation continues with a broader focus on the partnerships, systems, and shared responsibilities required to build mentally healthier societies.

This year's conference brings together experts, clinicians, researchers, policymakers, educators, and community leaders united by a common purpose. I hope the discussions, insights, and partnerships fostered through this platform will contribute to meaningful and lasting impact, advancing our shared vision of a future where every individual, family, and community has the opportunity to flourish.