مختبر ثلاثي الأبعاد لكشف السرطان.. ونظام رقمي لحماية أعضاء المرضى أثناء العمليات
The fourth edition of the Dubai Future Forum (DFF) kicked off yesterday, solidifying its position as the world’s largest gathering of future experts and organizations. The event showcased groundbreaking innovations and immersive technological experiences, ranging from virtual and augmented reality to extended reality, all aimed at fostering public engagement in shaping a sustainable future. This year’s forum focused heavily on actionable solutions and tangible advancements, particularly in fields like healthcare, highlighting the blossoming potential of future technologies.
Dubai Future Forum 2025: A Showcase of Tomorrow’s Innovations
The inaugural day of the Dubai Future Forum 2025 was a vibrant demonstration of forward-thinking ideas and practical applications. Attendees from over 100 countries were invited to explore a diverse range of interactive exhibits designed to provoke thought and inspire collaboration. Beyond the presentations and panel discussions, a dedicated space hosted book launches and author signings, nurturing the intellectual foundations of future discourse.
The emphasis on experiential learning was evident in the variety of installations. Visitors didn’t just see the future; they interacted with it. This hands-on approach fostered a deeper understanding of the potential impacts and possibilities of emerging technologies. The forum distinguishes itself by shifting the narrative from solely predicting the future to actively designing and building it.
Immersive Experiences: Stepping into the World of Tomorrow
Several interactive exhibits captured the imagination of attendees. “Future Plants” allowed participants to design fictional ecosystems, merging the digital and physical realms to reimagine the natural world. “Forest Dialogue” blended digital nature with real-world spaces, creating a uniquely immersive experience.
Virtual reality (VR) also played a prominent role. “The Art of Change” offered a hand-drawn VR journey exploring themes of identity, memory, and the interplay between past, present, and future. “Guardians of the Forest,” a VR film utilizing immersive technology, underscored the vital connection between human knowledge and biodiversity conservation. These experiences weren’t merely entertainment; they were designed to evoke empathy and inspire action towards a more sustainable and interconnected world. The use of these technologies demonstrates a commitment to accessible innovation in Dubai.
Arab University Students Lead the Way in Medical Advancements
A key highlight of the forum was the “Dubai Future Solutions – Innovations for Humanity” competition, where Arab university students presented a series of cutting-edge medical innovations. These projects showcased a remarkable integration of artificial intelligence (AI), bioengineering, and precision technologies, signaling a significant leap forward in healthcare.
Hamda Al-Shihi, a student from Khalifa University, unveiled a biosensor capable of instantly detecting disease-causing proteins, even in complex samples like blood, wastewater, and milk. “The sensor relies on genetically engineered viruses linked to graphene oxide, giving it a high sensitivity – reaching a part per billion – without needing antibodies or complex lab equipment,” she explained. This innovation promises rapid and accessible diagnostics, particularly crucial in epidemic zones and global health/food safety labs.
Pioneering Projects: From Vascular Health to Early Cancer Detection
Hitham Al-Hazaymeh, representing Jordan, presented “Enzero,” an advanced microcatheter system designed to enhance patient safety during embolization procedures. The system continuously monitors pressure and flow within blood vessels, providing surgeons with real-time data and reducing the risk of complications. Powered by AI algorithms, Enzero adapts to blood flow and can automatically alert surgeons or halt the procedure if any irregularities are detected, demonstrating a real-world application of intelligent systems.
Meanwhile, Basma Naji from Ain Shams University in Egypt showcased a 3D-printed microfluidic device capable of detecting liver cancer from a single drop of blood in just 15 minutes. The device bypasses the need for centrifugation, utilizing a special gel and gold antibodies to amplify signals and measure levels of GPC3, a protein associated with liver cancer. The results are then displayed digitally via an integrated sensor, offering a fast and reliable diagnostic solution.
Finally, Sara Fida from the Mohammed bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences presented “Wasl,” a digital platform focused on mental health support customized for Arabic-speaking cultures. Utilizing AI to analyze mood and provide personalized therapeutic guidance, Wasl offers daily tools like journaling and mood tracking, integration with smartwatches to monitor vital signs, and a secure community support environment.
A Vision for the Future of Healthcare
Mohammed Al-Qassim, Dean of the Dubai Future Academy, emphasized that these four projects exemplify the students’ ability to integrate AI with biology, engineering, and advanced materials to create superior medical technologies in terms of speed, accuracy, and cost. “These students are providing a clear model for the future of medicine, one based on multidisciplinary innovation,” he stated.
The Dubai Future Forum 2025 doesn’t just present possibilities; it’s actively building pathways towards them. The showcased projects represent tangible steps in leveraging future technologies to address critical global challenges, particularly in healthcare. The event’s focus on practical application and burgeoning talent signals a promising future, and fosters further discussions around responsible and impactful innovation. The success of the student competition further highlights the importance of nurturing a new generation of innovators and fostering collaboration across disciplines. This year’s forum has served as a powerful catalyst for imagining and constructing a brighter, more sustainable tomorrow.
