Comprehensive Guide to Healthcare and Hospitals in the UAE

The UAE is one of the wealthiest countries in the Middle East. As a result, it offers a world-class healthcare system across the Emirates, especially in Abu Dhabi and Dubai. The 2021 World Index of Healthcare Innovation ranked the UAE as the 20th best healthcare country globally. It has public and private health systems which are regulated at a national and emirate level, where the Ministry of Health and Prevention (MOHAP) oversees healthcare nationally.

The UAE Hospital System

The country offers a mix of public and private hospitals and you can access these facilities with public or private health insurance, depending on your nationality. Historically, the government subsidized public healthcare and hospitals in the UAE. However, following the growth of the private healthcare system, there are now more private hospitals than public. In fact, according to 2017 statistics, there are 98 private hospitals, compared to just 45 public ones.

Notably, both private and public hospitals in the UAE offer a high quality of care. While public institutions provide more general healthcare services, private hospitals are more specialty-based. Furthermore, public hospitals are often research and training facilities, too.

Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi

Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi is recognized as a Best Hospital in Abu Dhabi, UAE. A unique and unparalleled extension of US-based Cleveland Clinic’s Model of Care, Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi provides direct access to the world’s best healthcare, reducing the need for patients to travel abroad for treatment. The institution focuses on delivering medical excellence and becoming pioneers of healthcare innovation. Central to its mission is the Patients First Philosophy, where the Patient Experience team’s goal is to ensure patients come first at every step of their journey.

Accessing Hospital Treatment

Public healthcare is free or highly subsidized for citizens in the UAE. They can access hospital treatment with their national Health Card (Dubai) or their Emirates ID which shows their insurance details. In contrast, foreign nationals residing in the UAE must have private health insurance to access hospital care. That said, they will still need to apply for a national public Health Card through the MOHAP to do so.

Booking hospital appointments is easy, and you can do it online. Patients can access treatments without prior notice on their first visit but may require a direct referral from a doctor for a second consultation.

Emergency Treatment in the UAE

There are several emergency numbers in the UAE; however, in a medical emergency, you should call 998 for an ambulance. Both public and private hospitals accept patients for emergency treatments. Fortunately, this applies to Emirati nationals, expats, tourists, and visitors, and the intake treatment is always free. Once the patient is stabilized, the hospital might transfer them to another facility, which is better equipped for specialized care. Therefore, any additional care requires payment, either by the patient or their insurance provider.

Leading Medical Institutions and Insurance

The latest Medical Tourism Index Rankings places Dubai and Abu Dhabi sixth and ninth, respectively, among the world’s leading medical tourism destinations. The best hospitals in the UAE include:

• American Hospital – Dubai
• Cleveland Clinic – Abu Dhabi
• Thumbay University Hospital – Ajman
• NMC Royal Hospital, Khalifa Center – Abu Dhabi
• Zulekha Hospital – Dubai

To provide access to excellence in healthcare, hospitals partner with most insurance companies. Below is a summary of major insurance partners and their networks:

Generally speaking, hospital patients can expect an excellent standard of medical care from highly-trained professionals. Whether you are relocating or staying short-term, ensure you have the right policy for your health coverage needs.