Home | IADS Congress

A GLOBAL EVENT OF THE YEAR FOR DENTAL STUDENTS WORLDWIDE

10th-15th fEBRUARY 2026

16TH-21ST APRIL 2026

Welcome to

baku

Baku is a vibrant and historic city located on the western shore of the Caspian Sea, where Europe and Asia meet. Known for its rich cultural heritage, striking architecture, and dynamic energy, Baku seamlessly blends ancient history with bold modernity. The city’s UNESCO-listed Old City, with its medieval walls, narrow alleys, and iconic Maiden Tower, stands in perfect harmony with futuristic landmarks like the Flame Towers and the Heydar Aliyev Center, creating a stunning visual contrast unique to the Azerbaijani capital.

Take part in this exceptional event and feel the rhythm of Baku, a city that
celebrates knowledge, culture, and progress.

We can’t wait to welcome you!

Letter from

IADS PRESIDENT

ABDULLAH MUNQITH AL-ZUBAIDI

Letter from the

CHAIRPERSON

NIGAR AFANDIYEVA

Dear friends and colleagues,

On behalf of the International Association of Dental Students (IADS) Executive Committee, am pleased to invite you to the 72nd IADS Mid-Year Meeting, which will take place in Baku in April 2026.

The IADS Mid-Year Meeting is one of our key annual gatherings, bringing together dental students, national representatives, and future leaders from across the world. The program combines official General Assembly sessions with scientific lectures, workshops, leadership and soft-skills training, as well as opportunities for cultural exchange and networking.

The 2026 edition in Baku is designed with a strong emphasis on capacity building, innovation, and meaningful collaboration. For this reason, the pre-congress will host the IADS Training New Trainers (TNT) program, a cornerstone initiative designed to equip and empower new trainers who will carry forward capacity building and leadership development within IADS. Participants can expect an engaging environment that supports personal development, professional growth, and long-lasting international connections within the global dental community.

We warmly invite you to join us in Baku and to be part of a meeting that reflects the spirit, diversity, and ambition of IADS.

We look forward to welcoming you.

On behalf of the organizing committee of the Mid-Year Meeting 2026 of the International Association of Dental Students, I am delighted to invite you to this distinguished event in Baku, Azerbaijan - the Land of Fire, where ancient heritage and modern innovation meet in harmony.

This meeting serves as a dynamic platform for scientific exchange and a unique gathering point for dental students from around the world. Together, we will engage in education, innovation, and collaboration while building lasting professional connections and friendships, as we contribute to shaping the future of dentistry.

Baku, the vibrant capital of Azerbaijan, stands at the crossroads of history and the modern world. Renowned for its rich cultural legacy, striking architecture, and rapidly developing scientific and educational landscape, the city perfectly reflects a place where tradition meets modern approaches. From the UNESCO-listed Old City to its iconic contemporary skyline, Baku offers an inspiring environment where culture and innovation coexist in balance.

Beyond the scientific program, the Mid-Year Meeting will provide ample opportunities for networking and cultural exploration. Participants will have the chance to experience Azerbaijan’s unique traditions, hospitality, and dynamic social life, as well as discover the country’s diverse landscapes and historical landmarks - ensuring a memorable and enriching experience.

Whether you are joining to expand your professional knowledge through a rich and diverse scientific program featuring modern approaches to dentistry presented by leading experts, connect with peers from across the globe, or immerse yourself in the distinctive spirit of Azerbaijan, this meeting promises to be both inspiring and rewarding.
Start planning your journey to Baku, a city where history and modernity unite, we look forward to welcoming you to Azerbaijan in 2026.

REASONS WHY

YOU SHOULD VISIT

Baku

Land of Fire and Heritage

Azerbaijan stretches across 86,600 square kilometers, from the shores of the Caspian Sea to the peaks of the Caucasus Mountains. Its landscape includes semi-deserts, fertile valleys, and unique phenomena such as mud volcanoes and the ever-burning hillside of Yanar Dag, giving the country its famous title, “Land of Fire.”

A Historic Crossroads of
Cultures and Civilizations

Positioned between Eastern Europe and Western Asia, Azerbaijan has long been a meeting point of empires and trade routes. This rich blend of Turkic, Persian, Russian, and Caucasian influences is reflected in its languages, architecture, music, and crafts. Historic treasures like Baku’s UNESCO-listed Old City highlight the country’s deep cultural roots.

A Modern Nation Shaped by Innovation and Tradition

Today, Azerbaijan is rapidly developing in areas such as technology, energy, and education, while maintaining a strong connection to its heritage. Celebrations like Novruz, traditional Mugham music, and the art of carpet weaving continue to play an important role in national identity, creating a harmonious balance between modern progress and timeless traditions.