Welcome Message

Dear Esteemed Colleagues and Friends,

It is my great honor and privilege to welcome you to the 4th IFSO Middle East and North Africa Chapter (MENAC) Congress, to be held in Manama, Kingdom of Bahrain, from 3rd to 5th December 2026.

This landmark gathering of bariatric and metabolic surgery experts comes at a time when our Region continues to face the growing challenges of obesity and its related diseases. The scientific program of this Congress has been carefully designed to reflect both the depth and breadth of our field – ranging from cutting-edge surgical techniques, endoscopic innovations, and enhanced recovery pathways, to the latest in nutrition, genetics, artificial intelligence, and multidisciplinary obesity care. We are especially proud to host world-renowned speakers and thought leaders, ensuring that every session will be an opportunity to exchange knowledge, spark innovation, and inspire future collaborations.

Equally important, the IFSO MENAC 2026 in Bahrain will be more than a scientific meeting – it will be a celebration of fellowship, culture and tradition. Manama, our vibrant capital, has for centuries been a crossroads of civilizations, a meeting point where merchants, travelers and scholars from across the world exchanged goods, wisdom and friendship. From the ancient Dilmun civilization to the famed pearl-diving heritage, Bahrain has always embraced openness, diversity and hospitality. Today, that spirit continues as we welcome you to experience our rich history, warm people and a modern nation committed to progress under its visionary leadership.

The social program promises to reflect this heritage, offering a chance to enjoy Bahrain’s cultural treasures, culinary delights, and the renowned warmth of Arabian hospitality. From historic sites such as the Bahrain Fort (a UNESCO World Heritage site), to the lively souqs and modern waterfronts, we hope your stay will leave you with cherished memories of our kingdom.

It is our firm belief that this Congress will not only advance science and clinical practice but also strengthen the bonds of friendship across our global bariatric community.

We look forward to fruitful discussions, memorable encounters, and shared aspirations for a healthier future.

Welcome to Bahrain, and welcome to the 4th IFSO MENAC Congress.

With warm regards,