Future of Middle East optometry to be examined in Dubai

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In the Middle East the profession of Optometry, the healthcare science related to vision, visual systems and vision information processing, has expanded in line with population growth.

By launching the only specialised optometry conference in the region, the Vision-X Dubai Conference will run from 19-20 February 2008 at Dubai International Conventional and Exhibition Centre, with co-organisers Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC) and the Emirates Medical Association Ophthalmic Society (EMAOS) confident that they will help expand the educational opportunities available to practitioners working in this area.

All attendees will receive a 'Certificate of Continuing Medical Education', the professional accreditation that enables Optometrists to continue learning and practising. This approach to vocational training is indicative of the way Vision-X Dubai will combine industry and professional needs.

Helal Saeed Al Marri, Director General, Dubai World Trade Centre, said:

'Dubai World Trade Centre is delighted to work with EMAOS in driving and developing the first and only sector-specific conference of its kind in the Gulf. Our specialist delivery of conference and exhibition services provides a perfect platform for the dedicated experts working in the field of optometry.'

The two-day Vision-X Dubai Conference, sponsored by Ciba Vision, will facilitate a key regional information exchange as well as encouraging professional and best practice.

Adel Nader, Business Unit Manager, Gulf Region, AMICO (distributors of Ciba Vision), said: 'As a world leader in the development and manufacturing of contact lenses and lens care products, Ciba Vision is glad to sponsor the Vision-X Dubai Conference in 2008 and be in close contact and communication with customers and professionals. Vision-X Dubai offers a great opportunity to share and enrich professional experiences and knowledge.'

Dr. Manal Taryam, Specialist - Dubai Hospital and President of EMAOS, explains: 'There has been strong demand across the region for a dedicated conference focusing on the health and development issues related to Optometry. The Vision-X Dubai Conference will not only bring together specialists from across the Middle East, it will also host some of the leading international experts, who will cover issues ranging from treatment of refractive errors in children, through to the correction of astigmatism.'

Topics covered by the conference include a keynote speech from Dr. John Steile, Chief Optometrist, Al Magrabi Eye Hospital on the future direction of Optometry, a panel discussion on the needs of the profession in the Middle East and a number of scientific sessions on conditions ranging from the chronic problem of ocular surface disease through to binocular vision.

Key speakers include Dr. Ali Bukhamseen, Chief Optometrist, King Khaled Eye Specialists Hospital; Herr Helmer Schweizer, Doctor of Optometry, Ciba Vision; and Ms. Irene Sophia, Optometrist, Welcare Eye Centre.

The dedicated conference is held alongside Vision- X Dubai 2008 the region's premier business exhibition for the optical and ophthalmic industry. Organised by Dubai World Trade Centre the event will take place from 18-20 February 2008.

New for 2008, and in direct response to the diverse needs of the industry, DWTC has segmented Vision-X Dubai into two new sub-brands: Vision-Opticare which showcases ophthalmic, optometric and technical equipment, instruments and machinery and Vision-Lifestyle featuring the very latest in fashion eyewear and accessories. In addition, over 160 companies from 27 countries are set to exhibit their products and services this year, including the debut of an Italian national pavilion.

Vision-X Dubai will be held in Sheikh Rashid hall at the Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Centre (DICEC) from 18 - 19 February 2008 10am -7pm and 20 February 10am - 3pm.

The Vision-X Dubai Conference, organised by Emirates Medical Association Ophthalmic Society (EMAOS) will be held on 19 - 20 February 2008.

The exhibition is open to trade and industry specialists' only, visitors and delegates can register now online. General public and persons under the age of 21 will not be permitted.