The Complete Guide to Dubai’s Public and Private Healthcare Sectors

The healthcare system in Dubai is of exceptional quality and offers a variety of modern, easily accessible facilities for both locals and expatriates. So much so that it’s becoming a top destination for medical tourism. 

Whether you are planning to relocate to the UAE or have recently arrived and are concerned about how to care for your health here, this Pacific Prime Dubai article is an excellent place to begin your expat journey.

Healthcare in Dubai for Expats

The Dubai Health Authority (DHA) is a government authority that runs health services in Dubai, overseeing both the public and private healthcare sectors. 

Both sectors provide high-quality care accessible to expats, though wait times in the public healthcare sector are typically longer. What’s more, English is commonly spoken by the large number of expat medical staff in Dubai, so you’re unlikely to face a language barrier.

It’s important to note that Dubai’s healthcare system doesn’t have general practitioner (GP) surgeries. Non-urgent medical care is usually provided by a family doctor in a public or private hospital or medical center. They can offer you medical advice and refer you to treatments and specialists. 

That being said, you don’t necessarily need a referral to see a specialist, and you can schedule an appointment with one yourself.

Public Healthcare Sector

Public healthcare is free or low-cost for both UAE residents and expats, but you will need a “Health Card” to use it. Expats have to pay AED 100 for a one-year health card. 

You can apply for a health card via online service or at a medical center. Remember to bring a valid Emirates ID card.

Tip: Even if you have health insurance (which is mandatory), you should apply for a health card to access public healthcare when your policy does not cover certain treatments.

Private Healthcare Sector

Even though expats in Dubai can use public healthcare, many prefer private healthcare due to its better amenities, comfort, and shorter wait times. The only downside is its higher cost. 

You can choose from one of the many private healthcare facilities in Dubai, including hospitals at the Dubai Healthcare City (DHCC)—a modern complex that offers advanced and cutting-edge healthcare services.

List of Best Hospitals in Dubai for Expats

• Saudi German Hospital
• American Hospital Dubai
• Al Zahra Hospital
• Mediclinic City Hospital
• Canadian Specialist Hospital
• Emirates Hospital Jumeirah
• Zulekha Hospital Dubai
• International Modern Hospital

Check out more details, locations, and how to contact them in our guide on the “Best Hospitals in Dubai for Expats.”

Emergency Service in Dubai

Both the public and private healthcare sectors in Dubai provide emergency treatment. In the public healthcare sector, free emergency treatment is provided. If you haven’t applied for a health card yet, you’ll be issued a provisional card when you arrive at the hospital’s emergency department. 

Emergencies can get costly in Dubai’s private hospitals. That’s why having a good, comprehensive international health insurance plan helps you get the best private healthcare in Dubai with less or zero out-of-pocket expenses.  

Tip: If you need to call an ambulance in Dubai, you should dial 999 (ambulance and police) or 998 (ambulance only). Make sure you’re aware of ambulance charges and the emergency service departments at hospitals.

Maternity Care in Dubai

Maternity wards can be found in both public and private healthcare facilities. American Hospital, Saudi German Hospital, and Zulekha Hospital are a few of Dubai’s best maternity clinics and hospitals. We recommend reading our article to learn more about factors to consider when choosing a maternity hospital in Dubai.

Tip: It’s important to note that you must be legally married to the father of your child if you want to give birth in Dubai—something that’s come as a shock to many expat parents. Are you currently planning to get pregnant? Check out the expat’s guide to pregnancy in the UAE.

Dental Care in Dubai

Dubai is also home to many top dental clinics. Nevertheless, the cost of dental care in the emirate can be quite expensive. One Dubai survey found that 62% of respondents said affordability was a major barrier to dental care. As such, many expats choose to travel to another country for cheaper treatments.

Flying out every time you have dental emergencies is not a sustainable solution. That is why we recommend securing a comprehensive insurance plan that covers the cost of dental care in Dubai. Get in touch with our experts today to learn more about dental health insurance plans for expats in Dubai!

Disclaimer: Insurance companies usually require a waiting period before accepting treatment claims. Waiting periods for dental coverage vary by each  company, but they usually run 10-12 months. This prevents insurers from paying for your dental treatment immediately after joining.

Medicines and Pharmacies in Dubai

There are also plenty of pharmacies in Dubai, many of which are open 24 hours. Both over-the-counter and prescription drugs are available, but drug prices are higher. Since the pharmaceutical laws in Dubai are rather strict, you must make sure you aren’t bringing illegal medication into the country.

Secure Mandatory Health Insurance Today!

All residents (including expats and their dependents) in Dubai are required to have mandatory health insurance. Unlike the locals who are covered under a government-funded scheme, expats will need private health insurance for more comprehensive coverage. 

As required by the law, employers must provide at least basic health insurance to their employees, while some may extend the coverage to employees’ dependents.

If you need to secure health insurance for your dependents, or if you want more comprehensive benefits than what your employer provides, Pacific Prime Dubai can help! As a global insurance brokerage, we help you determine your insurance needs, compare plans, and pick the one that best fits you.

Whether you’re an individual or a family moving to Dubai, we can provide international health insurance with many extra benefits, such as maternity coverage.

Contact us today to get started on your expat journey in Dubai!

• Author
• Recent Posts

Napasrapi Triemthana

Napasrapi Triemthana, best known by his nickname “Tawan,” is an upcoming content creator at Pacific Prime Thailand. He is a fresh graduate in English from the Faculty of Arts, Chulalongkorn University, where he developed knowledge in literature and culture, while also building up experience writing both academically and professionally compelling essays and articles. Before joining Pacific Prime’s content team, Tawan had been in an internship at a top e-commerce company in Thailand, during which he had a chance to write blog posts and short articles for the company’s website and social media. During college, Tawan also worked part-time as a Thai-English translator and proofreader for the Faculty of Dentistry, Chulalongkorn University’s academic journals.

With his keen interest in journalism, especially in the healthcare and wellness field, Tawan joins Pacific Prime with the goal of creating content that simplifies health insurance solutions, helping people make informed choices and choose the best options for their needs. Tawan firmly believes that words have power that can shape the world for the better.

In his free time, Tawan loves to pick up his Nintendo Switch and wield his Master Sword in Hyrule’s dungeons. He is also an avid sci-fi books/shows enjoyer. You can spot him hanging around bookstores and game shops all day long!

Latest posts by Napasrapi Triemthana (see all)

• The Complete Guide to Dubai’s Public and Private Healthcare Sectors - 14th March 2025