Insights from Arab Health 2025

The future of healthcare innovation

Key trends from Arab Health 2025

Arab Health 2025 brought together global leaders, innovators, and medical experts to show and discuss the latest advancements in healthcare. As one of the most influential trade fairs in the medical sector, it provided valuable insights into how technology, sustainability, and user-centered design are shaping the future of patient care.

During our visit, we explored key industry trends, connected with healthcare professionals, and analyzed how these innovations will impact medical product development. Here are our main takeaways.

1. User-driven innovation: Growing focus on woman’s health

Medical products are becoming increasingly tailored to diverse user needs, with a growing focus on women’s health. Solutions designed by women, for women, such as the GE breast screening device and advanced breast pumps, highlight the impact of user-driven development. These innovations are great examples on how addressing specific user needs leads to better healthcare outcomes.

This shift is something we have also experienced when facilitating the Women’s Health Design Challenge in Boston, where we brought together experts to tackle some of the biggest challenges in women’s healthcare. Read more about it here.

2. Hospital at home: the shift to outpatient care

With rising hospital costs, staff shortages, and an increasing demand for patient-centered care, the industry is moving toward more Hospital at Home solutions. Companies like Sanrai are developing specialized home healthcare devices that allow patients to receive treatment outside of hospital settings.

Additionally, the rise in outpatient surgeries—driven by clinic closures and the need for cost-effective care—has led to an increased demand for efficient and compact medical devices that support remote patient monitoring and treatment.

A clear example of this trend is Ivy Medical, a startup that developed a next-generation wearable infusion pump to improve patient mobility and caregiver efficiency. We supported them with concept development and usability improvements, ensuring that their product met both technical and user-focused requirements. Learn more about it here.

3. Digitalization and connectivity: smarter medical systems

The increasing digitalisation of healthcare is driving improvements in hospital networking, medical device interoperability, and patient care coordination. AI-driven technologies, such as robotics, imaging, and predictive analytics, are enhancing patient outcomes and improving surgical precision. A fully integrated digital healthcare system in Estonia is already demonstrating how AI, blockchain, and interoperability can create efficient, accessible, and patient-centered care. The ability to synchronize hospital device networks and streamline patient data flows is paving the way for smarter medical systems that reduce workload, improve efficiency, and enhance overall patient experiences.

4. Sustainability in healthcare: a growing priority

Sustainability is becoming a key focus in healthcare, with an increasing emphasis on environmental, social, and governance (ESG) strategies. Medical device companies are developing energy-efficient solutions and waste reduction programs, alongside hospital infrastructure projects aimed at reducing emissions and energy consumption.

One interesting approach involves repurposing heat generated by medical equipment through heat exchange systems, allowing hospitals to reduce energy waste and lower operating costs. As sustainability gains momentum, circular economy principles are being incorporated into the design and manufacturing of medical devices, ensuring a longer lifespan and reduced environmental footprint.

5. US regulations leading the way in certification

A growing number of medical product certifications are shifting toward US regulatory standards. More companies are aligning their compliance frameworks with FDA guidelines, as the US takes the lead in defining global healthcare regulations. For example, European manufacturers seeking to expand internationally are increasingly prioritizing FDA approvals over regional certifications, as these provide faster market access and greater global recognition.

What these trends mean for medical product development

The healthcare industry is evolving rapidly, creating both challenges and opportunities for medical product development. Companies looking to stay ahead must embrace sustainable design, user-centered innovation, and digital integration to meet the increasing demands of modern healthcare.

Understanding emerging trends and regulatory shifts will be key to developing future-proof medical devices that improve patient care, reduce costs, and support more efficient healthcare delivery.

Are you navigating these changes in medical product development? Let’s explore how these insights can be applied to your next innovation.

📩 Get in touch with us today!