Top 5 things to know about Medical Treatments in Dubai

Dubai, known for its skyline buildings and luxury lifestyle, has rapidly transformed into a global healthcare hub. With a focus on providing world-class medical services, Dubai’s healthcare ecosystem is supported by state-of-the-art facilities, highly qualified medical professionals, and advanced technology. The healthcare system offers high-quality services to both residents and medical tourists, making it a key player in the Middle East’s health tourism sector.

Major healthcare treatments in Dubai include advanced aesthetic, dermatology, and orthodontic procedures. The strict rules implemented by the Dubai Healthcare Authority guarantee that all medical institutions meet worldwide standards, demonstrating its dedication to providing top-grade healthcare. If you’re considering migrating or already working in Dubai, here are the top five things you need to know about healthcare in Dubai.

Top 5 Medical Healthcare Facilities in Dubai

1.Low-Cost Medical Facilities through Emirates Health Card


Dubai makes healthcare affordable to its residents through the Emirates Health Card. This card will allow citizens and expatriates to receive medical services across public healthcare institutions at an affordable rate. The card will also help in covering medical costs if you don’t have private health insurance.

2. The Dubai HealthCare Authority (DHA)

The Dubai Health Authority (DHA) is in charge of overseeing and managing healthcare in Dubai. It creates and enforces rules, policies, and standards for both public and private healthcare facilities. DHA is responsible for regulating healthcare services, licensing medical professionals, and ensuring that health services meet high standards.

DHA also oversees health insurance, health investment, and Dubai health tourism, aiming to boost the emirate’s economic growth through these sectors. They are also involved in public health initiatives, focusing on preventive medicine and workplace health and safety, with the goal of improving the overall health of Dubai’s population. Moreover, DHA sets the strategy for medical education in Dubai and regulates clinical research and trials, working closely with both local and international authorities.

3. Free Emergency Care for All

The hospitals in Dubai provide free emergency care to everyone, including residents and visitors. This service ensures that patients of all age groups in the community receive timely and appropriate care in accordance with the approved international standards 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. 

The Government of Dubai also offers a home emergency service. Individuals can dial 800-DOCTOR (800-362867) for medical assistance at home. This service enhances the accessibility and convenience of emergency care across the Emirates.

4.Medicines

In Dubai, you will get access to the best-quality medicines through an extensive network of pharmacies, both physical and online. The physical stores, which open throughout the day, deliver over-the-counter(OTC) drugs and prescription medicines. The UAE healthcare system has implemented stringent pharmaceutical laws and has considered certain medications to be controlled substances. You may need a prescription to purchase those medicines, which can be an OTC drug in your country.

Dubai has many great online stores for all your healthcare needs, from beauty care and over-the-counter medicines to skin and aesthetic devices. These pharmacies provide the convenience of ordering medicines and having them delivered to your doorstep. For example, Life Pharmacy offers healthcare products & mergesouq.com offers dermatological consumables for Clinics in UAE.

5.Health Insurance in UAE

Health insurance is mandatory for all residents of Dubai, ensuring access to a broad range of healthcare services. The healthcare system, through initiatives such as ISAHD(Insurance System for Advanced Healthcare in Dubai), provides various health insurance plans that cover different medical needs.

As per the new legislation by the Dubai Healthcare Authority, companies must provide health insurance to their employees that covers the basic requirements suggested by the government. There is no requirement that the employer sponsor the dependents. In that case, expat workers may need to arrange protection for their family members. By December 2024, health insurance become compulsory for all the residents of Dubai.

About Author:

Dr. Anna Chackanackuzhy holds a degree in BAMS from Kerala University of Health Sciences and brings over two years of specialized experience in medical content writing. With a strong foundation in Ayurveda, her expertise encompasses a wide array of subjects, including health conditions, Ayurvedic therapies, herbal formulations, and dermatological care. Dr. Anna is proficient in crafting educational and sales content that informs and engages, making her a sought-after professional in medical and healthcare communications.

Disclaimer: This blog is intended solely for informational purposes and not to constitute medical or legal advice. Please consult with a healthcare professional for personalized medical guidance.