World-class medical care is offered at private and public healthcare centres across the UAE, where you will find English-speaking staff and internationally trained medical teams in most hospitals and clinics.
In general, both private and government hospitals across the UAE offer a high standard of care and comprehensive inpatient and outpatient facilities.
The UAE's hospitals should be able to cater to any specialist needs. It is worth having a look around the main hospitals to see which one suits you, especially if you are planning to have a baby.
In general, both private and government hospitals across the UAE offer a high standard of care and comprehensive inpatient and outpatient facilities, and should be able to cater to any specialist needs. It is worth having a look around the main hospitals to see which one suits you, especially if you are planning to have a baby.
See Useful Links for a list of government hospitals across the UAE.
In total, government hospitals account for more than 2,600 beds.
Selecting a hospital
Abu Dhabi Health Services Company, SEHA, owns and operates 12 government hospitals which are available to those with health cards.
In Dubai, the Department of Health & Medical Services (DOHMS) runs Dubai, Rashid and Latifa hospitals. Dubai Hospital is renowned as one of the best medical centres in the Middle East, while Latifa is a specialised maternity and paediatric hospital. DOHMS also operates a number of outpatient clinics. Al Baraha Hospital is run by the Ministry of Health. The Iranian Hospital, while not a government hospital, provides healthcare subsidised by the Iranian Red Crescent Society.
See Useful Links for a list of government hospitals across the UAE.
The Ministry of Labour website (mol.gov.ae) has a facility to check the status of your labour card application online.See also the How To section for a step by step guide to applying for, renewing and transferring visas
There is a growing number of excellent private healthcare facilities in the UAE.
Private hospitals with solid reputations and international specialists are available in the UAE, and their specialist treatments attract visiting patients from around the world. There are more than 120 medical facilities in Dubai's Healthcare City alone, including two hospitals. Waiting times are generally shorter in private clinics and medical centres, and you can expect a higher level of personal service and private hotel-style rooms (as well as rather tasty food!). Before booking an appointment, though, check that the clinic or hospital is part of your insurer’s network to avoid being landed with a large bill.
The majority of hospitals offer a comprehensive range of inpatient and outpatient services, and some have accident and emergency (A&E) departments. In addition, many general practice clinics offer a range of medical services so it’s worth checking at your local clinic before going elsewhere. The standard of maternity care is excellent and, whatever your ailment, the chances are you’ll find at least one relevant specialist in the UAE.