The second ever SPATEC Middle East is currently taking place at the Westin Mina Seyahi in Dubai, UAE.

A total of 22 supplier companies and 35 buyers are taking part in face-to-face meetings and a number of networking events across 12-15 September.

Anni Hood, founder of Wellness Business Consultancy and K.I.S. Lifestyle, gave a keynote speech on the first day of meetings about how the wellness industry is undergoing a shift in dynamic. Having examined data in the monthly GWI Wellness Economic Barometer report by economist Thierry Malleret (who reports for the Global Wellness Institute), Hood said persistent global financial weakness is becoming the norm and the nature of investment is in flux – with investors spending their money directly in money-making opportunities rather than in public markets.

Hood discussed her own passion for an inclusive approach to wellness, for regular people and workers in addition to those who can pay for it. By highlighting the fact that wellness starts with basic needs (shelter, warmth and food), Hood noted that some governments are moving faster than others to implement the integration of both wellness tourism initiatives and workplace wellness schemes.

As the conference comes to an end, organisers have confirmed that the next SPATEC Middle East will be taking place between 13-16 September 2016. The venue has yet to be announced.