The grand ceremony is scheduled for October 2026 in Dubai, bringing together leading healthcare professionals.

Dubai: Health Magazine, in partnership with Thumbay Media, has officially opened nominations for the Annual Health Awards 2026, one of the UAE’s most prestigious platforms for recognizing excellence in healthcare.
Building on the success of previous editions, this year’s awards raise the bar even higher. A dedicated segment will honor 15 exceptional UAE nationals, alongside 50+ categories celebrating excellence across the healthcare ecosystem. The grand ceremony is scheduled for October 2026 in Dubai, uniting the region’s most respected healthcare leaders.
Over the years, the Annual Health Awards have grown beyond recognition—they have become a platform to showcase impact, highlight innovation, and share stories of dedication with a wider audience.
Spotlight on UAE Talent
For the second consecutive year, Emirati healthcare professionals will be honored through exclusive awards, reflecting their pivotal role in shaping the UAE’s healthcare future. This initiative underscores the nation’s commitment to nurturing homegrown talent and advancing clinical excellence.
Expanded Categories, Broader Impact
With over 50 categories, the 2026 edition will span the full spectrum of healthcare excellence — from clinical achievements and surgical innovation to public health initiatives, wellness leadership, healthcare education, research, and patient care. This expanded scope ensures that every contribution, whether by an individual or an institution, finds its platform.
A Platform That Amplifies Stories
What sets the Annual Health Awards apart is the visibility they provide. Backed by leading media partners and sponsors, and powered by Thumbay Media’s multi-channel reach across TV, print, digital, and social media, each nomination becomes more than a submission — it becomes a story worth sharing. From frontline caregivers to healthcare entrepreneurs, and from hospitals to wellness startups, nominees have the opportunity to showcase their impact on a regional stage.
Independent & Audited Evaluation Process
To uphold the highest standards of credibility and transparency, the awards follow a fully audited evaluation framework. Knight Frank joins as the official Jury Partner, ensuring an independent, unbiased, and merit-based judging process. All nominations will be evaluated by an eminent panel of healthcare professionals, academicians, and industry leaders, guaranteeing fairness and integrity at every stage.
Vignesh S. Unadkat, Chief Operating Officer of Thumbay Media, said:
“This platform continues to grow in scale and significance each year. The 2026 edition is set to be our most expansive yet — bringing together excellence, credibility, and visibility for healthcare professionals across the region.”
How to Nominate
Healthcare professionals, organizations, and innovators can submit their nominations starting 6 April 2026:
- Visit the official awards portal
- Select the most relevant category
- Submit your achievements, impact, and contributions to healthcare
Key Dates
- Nominations Open: 6 April 2026
- Nominations Close: August 2026
- Awards Ceremony: October 2026, Dubai
Participation goes beyond recognition — it opens doors to credibility, collaboration, and regional visibility, placing contributors at the forefront of healthcare excellence.


