Dubai is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world with desert safaris and a bustling cityscape. But there’s more to this city than you might expect. Dubai is also a global hub for healthcare. The healthcare system in Dubai is very advanced. A range of medical treatments is available to residents and visitors alike. With qualified personnel, modern equipment, and a standard that places the patient’s needs above all else, effective diagnosis is provided swiftly and as quickly as possible.
For those seeking cosmetic surgery or fertility treatment, for example, various international clinics offer these options within the boundaries of the UAE law. Alongside these specialized services are general practitioners who provide primary care and emergency assistance on demand. As such, a few things that you must know about healthcare in Dubai are:
Public Healthcare
Healthcare in Dubai is of a very high standard and you can expect world-class treatments. The Dubai Health Authority is the regulatory body for public hospitals, ensuring that they have qualified and certified staff as well as modern facilities and equipment. They also provide medication on hand at all times so that patients receive the best care possible.
Private Healthcare
Private hospitals in Dubai offer the highest quality healthcare facilities. People with health insurance can opt to choose a hospital of their choice for treatment. Private healthcare facilities in Dubai are constantly investing in better technologies, and because they employ staff that speaks various languages, medical care is accessible for all. Apart from offering top-notch services, there are no long waits for an appointment. The Government does not only support the public healthcare sector, but it is also advocating for improvements in public-private partnerships.
Emergency Care
The public hospitals in Dubai offer free emergency services to all. If you do not have a health card, there is nothing to worry about as a provisional one will be provided to you to ensure that on-time treatment is provided. Private hospitals also offer emergency care, but their facilities can be very expensive for those who do not possess comprehensive medical insurance.
Medical Cards
Citizens must have a medical card to access healthcare from private and public hospitals. If you do not have private insurance, you can easily acquire a health card in order to benefit from the services of public hospitals at reduced rates.
Medical cards are issued by the Dubai Health Authority for public and private insurance holders alike, as certain insurance policies do not cover all treatments. You will not have to pay as much at a public facility if you have an approved medical card.
Health Insurance
Health insurance is mandatory in Dubai and employers are required to provide medical cover for all employees. Basic health insurance in Dubai covers outpatient consultations, maternity care, referrals to specialists for pathological and surgical investigations, emergency coverage of medications and certain surgeries. Most employers offer group plans for their workers, but as an individual, you can also purchase a custom policy that covers your spouse and dependents.
Maternal Health
Pregnant women should register with a medical facility as soon as they realize they are pregnant, and it should not be later than 7 months. Residents have the option to choose between a public or private hospital.
Dubai is a leading global center for healthcare with many tourists who come to the Emirate seeking treatment at private and governmental facilities. These healthcare providers all have qualified personnel, modern equipment and offer high-quality services; however, it is necessary to remember that you will need health insurance if you want access to these treatments.
