The emirate of Dubai has again become the centre of the international dental community with the start of the next edition of the UAE International Dental Conference and Arab Dental Exhibition (AEEDC) this week at the Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Centre for dental professionals from around the world. Held un der the patronage of Sheikh Ham dan bin Rashid al-Maktoum, Deputy Ruler of Dubai, the event is not only the largest gathering of dental participants in the MENASA region, but also the most prominent showcase of the latest in science, technology and products for dentistry. This year, the international show is being held in Dubai for the 18th time. According to the latest estimates, over 600 dealers and manufacturers from the region and abroad have registered for the global dental exhibition. Among innovations such as new and improved dental materials and equipment, a vast number of advanced digital solutions are on display, which were developed to improve the workflow and communication between dental practices and laboratories for the benefit of patients. Current issues and methods in dentistry will be discussed during the conference, which will see clinical presentations by more than 130 local and internationally wellknown speakers. A number of specialised courses were offered again this year prior to the congress as part of the Dubai World Dental Meeting. In addition, a student competition will be held among participants from universities in the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Libya, Egypt, Oman, Yemen and Russia. Awards will be given for research and other contributions to oral health, as well as for best booth design and activities, among other categories. “AEEDC Dubai 2014 will yet again supersede its previous records and achievements by delivering another outstanding event,” AEEDC Executive Chairman Dr Abdul Salam al-Madani said. “On behalf of the organisers of AEEDC Dubai and its team members, I would like to extend a warm welcome to all members of the oral health community and encourage them to seize this opportunity and benefit from the latest advancements in dentistry.” The conference and exhibition are being held from 4–6 February. A part of the Global Scientific Dental Alliance and World Dental Exhibitions Alliance, the event is organised by INDEX Conferences and Exhibitions in partnership with the Dubai Health Authority annually. Last year’s edition attracted more than 30,000 dental professionals from the Middle East and abroad, according to INDEX figures.
