The application of data-driven methodologies is fundamentally reshaping the fields of sport science, rehabilitation, and performance health. For professionals and students in the UAE seeking to engage with these advancements, access to industry-standard tools and expert knowledge is critical. This was the central focus of the VALD Practitioner’s Summit, a two-day event held at Middlesex University Dubai’s main campus in Dubai Knowledge Park.
Hosted in collaboration with the London Sport Institute in Dubai, the summit brought together practitioners, academics, and industry leaders to explore the practical application of performance technology. The event underscored the growing importance of objective testing and data-informed decision-making in modern health and performance practices.
Applied Learning at the Core of the Summit
The summit’s agenda was designed to bridge the gap between theoretical research and real-world application. Over two days, participants engaged with a programme that moved from foundational principles to advanced use cases. Sessions were research-informed and addressed key operational challenges, including needs analysis, testing hygiene, data collection protocols, and the complexities of return-to-sport decision-making.
Attendees gained insights from a diverse group of speakers, including experienced VALD users, industry experts, and the academic faculty from Middlesex University Dubai’s London Sport Institute. The focus was consistently on how data-driven approaches are actively shaping contemporary practices in health and performance.
Key Sessions and Expert Insights
The summit featured several headline presentations that provided deep dives into specific areas of performance science:
- Dr. Paul Read presented on “The Evolution of Return to Sport Testing — Lessons Learnt and Future Directions,” offering a critical look at the methodologies guiding athlete recovery.
- Professor Hugh Fullagar discussed “The PERFORM Framework: Redefining Discovery and Innovation in Sport,” outlining a structured approach to innovation in high-performance environments.
- Dr. Wesam Al Attar delivered a session on “Performance-Driven Injury Prevention with VALD Technology,” highlighting how specific tools can be integrated into proactive health strategies.
These sessions provided attendees with actionable knowledge, moving beyond abstract concepts to discuss tangible strategies for implementation in their respective fields.
Integrating Industry-Standard Technology into Education
A significant component of the summit was the hands-on experience with the full suite of VALD technologies. Participants could directly interact with tools used for performance monitoring, injury prevention, and rehabilitation planning. This practical exposure is a cornerstone of the educational philosophy at the London Sport Institute in Dubai.
The institute, set for its official launch in February 2026, is already integrating VALD technology into its physical teaching spaces. Students have access to the VALD ForceDecks Dual Force Plate System, which automates the assessment of over 20 movements, from squats and jumps to isometric strength tests. The Smart Speed timing system and DynamoMax strength equipment are also routinely used, ensuring students gain proficiency with the same tools employed by elite athletes and healthcare professionals globally.
Charvi Bhatt, Sports Partnerships and Development Executive, noted the significance of the event: “It was a privilege for London Sport Institute in Dubai and Middlesex University Dubai to serve as venue partners for the first VALD conference hosted in the Middle East. This event reinforces the region’s growing role within the global high-performance sport ecosystem.”
Dr. Paul Read, Head of the London Sport Institute in Dubai, emphasized the strategic importance of the partnership: “Our partnership with VALD is pivotal in shaping the landscape of sports health and performance education in the region. VALD are leaders in the field, providing contemporary approaches to athlete testing and monitoring. We ensure our students are trained using the industry standard and this is complemented by research and practice informed teaching to ensure they are ready to excel in their chosen careers.”
Building a Professional Community in the UAE
Beyond the formal sessions, the summit served as a vital networking hub. It connected international experts, VALD practitioners, and the academic community at Middlesex University Dubai. The informal discussions and breakout sessions fostered a collaborative environment focused on knowledge-sharing and the future of performance and rehabilitation science in the region.
This initiative aligns with the broader mission of the London Sport Institute to support evidence-based, data-driven practice across sport, health, and performance in the UAE. By providing access to industry-standard technologies and fostering direct engagement with experts, the institute aims to develop practitioners equipped for high-performance environments.
As the UAE continues to invest in sport and physical activity as part of its national development strategies, platforms like the VALD Practitioner’s Summit play a crucial role. They help shape the next generation of practitioners, researchers, and industry leaders, ensuring that innovation and collaboration remain at the heart of the region’s sporting future.
Next Steps for Aspiring Professionals
For students and professionals interested in pursuing a career in sport science, rehabilitation, or performance technology, the summit highlights the value of an education that integrates academic rigor with practical, industry-standard experience. Programs that offer direct access to advanced technologies and foster connections with leading practitioners provide a distinct advantage in a competitive field.
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Understanding the practical application of performance technology is essential for anyone looking to make an impact in this dynamic field. The VALD summit demonstrated the clear link between advanced education and real-world success.
