The 14th edition of the World Health Tourism Congress (WHTC) has brought together more than 250 professionals from the sector in Marbella, consolidating itself as a key event in the evolution of health and wellness tourism. With a hybrid format that combines strategic networking, scientific conferences and one-to-one business meetingsThe congress focused on the latest innovations in the sector and the challenges of the future.
High-impact presentations: innovation and trends in health tourism
The congress was attended by international experts who addressed the most disruptive trends in the sector, from the personalisation of medical tourism to the digital transformation of healthcare.
Among the most prominent speakers:
- Mariam AsefiCEO of Medical Trust - Competence Center Medical Tourism (Germany), gave a detailed analysis on key metrics in health tourism and their impact on destination management. His presentation provided tools for measuring the cost-effectiveness of services and improving the patient experience.
- Dr. Francisco Martínez Peñalverof Tiara Health, shared the latest research on anti-ageingone of the fastest growing areas of health tourism.
- Dr. Luis F. JaimeBiodrip, presented a retrospective on the past, present and future of health tourismThe report highlights the evolution of treatments and the demand for specialised services.
The lectures also addressed the digitisation of the patient experience, the impact of artificial intelligence on personalised medicine and the rise of holistic wellness programmesThese factors are redefining health tourism globally.
Technology and wellness: the new paradigm of medical tourism
One of the key moments of the congress was the speech of the Dr. Salvatore Rinaldifrom the Rinaldi Fontani Institute, who presented the latest innovations in neuromodulation and biomodulation with Radio Electric Conveyer (REAC) technology, positioning these technologies as the future of precision medicine.
For its part, Mónica Figuerola MartínQuirón Salud's corporate director for international development, explained how the Artificial intelligence and telemedicine are revolutionising the international patient experience.. He analysed success stories where these tools have optimised diagnostic times and improved efficiency in remote medical care.
A format that drives business generation
Beyond the scientific and technological content, the WHTC's format has been key to its success.. The agenda included:
- One-to-one meetings between international suppliers and buyers, enabling strategic negotiations in an exclusive environment.
- Networking in AI, digital marketing, patient recruitment strategies and financing models for health tourism.
- Awards for excellence in the sector, highlighting innovative initiatives and success stories.
Recognition of excellence: WHTC 2025 award winners
One of the most eagerly awaited moments of the event was the awards galaheld at the Hotel Alanda MarbellaThe work of the organisations and professionals who are leading the transformation of health and wellness tourism was recognised.
The winners of the 2025 edition were:
🏆 Health ChoiceRecoletas Salud
🏆 CEO of The YearDr. Mohamed El Sahili
🏆 Marketing Initiative: Visit Berlin
🏆 Medical Administrator of The Year: International Gulf Health Services Management
🏆 Excellence in Community EngagementDr. Eiman Altawheed
🏆 Hospital Group of The Year: Quirón Salud
🏆 Customer Satisfaction: Hirslanden International
🏆 Innovation AwardRinaldi Fontani Institute and Foundation
🏆 Wellness Influencer of the YearNadia Tresoro
These awards reflect the impact of the companies and professionals that are driving forward new standards of quality, innovation and sustainability in the sector.
The future of health tourism: the Middle East is the next destination.
The WHTC Chairman, Ghassan AridiThe importance of the event was underlined as a innovation and collaboration forum within the industry. "This congress not only connects the key players in health tourism, but also sets the agenda for its evolution," he said.
Following the success of this edition, the World Health Tourism Congress is already preparing its next venues in Bahrain, Saudi Arabia and OmanThe event is consolidating its position as the main global benchmark event for health and wellness tourism.
