The 38th International Federation of Sports Medicine (FIMS) World Congress of Sports Medicine concluded on Sunday after four days of activities at the Dubai World Trade Centre.

The Congress attracted over 1,000 participants from various medical fields worldwide, with 130 speakers across 13 sessions, presenting 304 research papers and concluding with 13 key recommendations.

The recommendations called for promoting a global alliance for physical activity and exercise, emphasising the urgent need to combat physical inactivity through a worldwide coalition of stakeholders. Another recommendation addressed the role of artificial intelligence and technological innovation in enhancing athlete well-being, with discussions on AI and machine learning algorithms for injury prediction and management.

Further recommendations included a holistic approach to pain management, highlighting the importance of an integrated framework combining physical therapy, medication, psychological support, and lifestyle interventions.

The Congress also emphasised the need for specialisation and standardisation in sports medicine globally, advocating the development of universally applicable protocols and training guidelines to ensure consistency in sports injury treatment and prevention.

Other recommendations included advancements in sports science, particularly in football, with discussions on research shaping training and recovery methods across various sports. Another recommendation proposed is establishing collaborative sports medicine centres for research and data-sharing, fostering global cooperation among physicians and researchers to enhance healthcare for athletes.

The final recommendations stressed the importance of engaging with local and international communities. Awareness initiatives were highlighted, focusing on the role of sports medicine in enhancing athlete performance and well-being.

Platforms for continued dialogue and knowledge-sharing, including seminars and online forums, were established to support ongoing collaboration, keeping the community engaged with emerging issues in sports and medicine.

Faris Mohammed Al Mutawa, Secretary-General of the National Olympic Committee, along with Dr. Hashel Al Tunaiji, Chairman of the Sports Medicine Committee, and Dr Abdullah Al Rahoumi, Vice Chairman of the Sports Medicine Committee, honoured winners of the Aspetar Award, the FIMS Award, and the Young Researcher Award on the final day of the congress.

Reflecting on the Congress, Al Mutawa stated, “Major international events continue to find opportunities for success, excellence, and sustainability in the UAE, thanks to the nation’s vast resources and unique global reputation in hosting events at all levels.

Al Rahoumi commented, “The recurring recommendations generated by scientific events in sports constitute a valuable legacy for researchers and specialists, opening doors for further applications, experience sharing, and skill development through contributions from elite participants who have enriched various sectors with their studies and research."