Hospitals in Dubai for Foreigners
Dubai, the largest city in the United Arab Emirates, is a jewel of a place. Tourists head there to enjoy the amazing architecture and many shopping options. The city is also home to numerous expats—about 90% of the population consists of foreign nationals.
Expatriates and foreign visitors spend time working or sightseeing but also want to stay healthy. If you’re a digital nomad or foreign tourist who needs medical care, whether for an emergency or a planned surgery, it can be hard to choose which Dubai hospital to visit. Fortunately, the city has many excellent hospitals with English-speaking doctors. Read on to learn where to find the best hospitals in Dubai.
Does Dubai Have Good Hospitals?
Yes, there are great hospitals in Dubai for expats. Dubai has become a popular destination for medical tourists. Many hospitals in Dubai are accredited by Joint Commission International (JCI). JCI is an internationally trusted organization that aims to ensure patient safety, maintain hospital standards and reduce risks. Its accreditation means that a hospital will provide high-quality healthcare.
The Dubai Health Authority (DHA) oversees public and private hospitals. Dubai is also home to Dubai Healthcare City (DHCC). One of DHCC’s goals is to attract medical tourists, so hospitals in this area are ready to welcome expatriates and foreigners.
What Are the 5 Best Hospitals in Dubai?
Newsweek’s 2024 listing of the World’s Best Hospitals included multiple Dubai hospitals. The five best hospitals in Dubai are also some of the best in the United Arab Emirates.
Rashid Hospital
315 Umm Hurair Second
Dubai, UAE
Inside UAE: 800342
Outside UAE: +971 4219 8888
info@dha.gov.ae
Rashid Hospital is JCI-accredited and the highest-rated Dubai hospital in Newsweek’s rankings. It has a well-equipped emergency and trauma center.
Mediclinic City Hospital
Dubai Healthcare City
Building 37
Dubai, UAE
Inside UAE: 800 1999
cityhospital@mediclinic.ae
American Hospital Dubai
19th St – Oud Metha
Dubai, UAE
Makani No. 30095 92077
Inside UAE: 80024392
Outside UAE: +971 4377 5500
info@ahdubai.com
American Hospital became part of the Mayo Clinic Care Network in 2016. Its membership gives the hospital access to research, specialists and more at the Mayo Clinic, one of the top hospitals in the world. American Hospital was the first hospital in the Middle East to join this network.
Aster Hospital, Mankhool
Near Sharaf DG
Mankhool
Kuwait Road
Al Mankhool
Dubai, UAE
+971 4440 0500
Al Zahra Hospital
Sheikh Zayed Rd
Al Barsha
close to Mashreq Metro Station
Dubai, UAE
+971 4378 6666
info@azhd.ae
Is Healthcare Free in Dubai for Expats and Foreigners?
Employers must provide health insurance to expats and foreigners working legally in Dubai. If you’re a legal worker for a company in the UAE, you’re also eligible to receive a health card. This card allows you to receive care at Dubai’s public hospitals. However, you may have to pay a portion of the bill (Dubai’s Essentials Benefits Plan has patients pay 20% of their medical costs). And even if you’re legally working in Dubai, your employer does not have to provide insurance coverage to your dependents. For these reasons, foreigners moving to Dubai for work should consider purchasing international insurance coverage before leaving their home country.
Global nomads and tourists cannot access free public healthcare in Dubai. If you fall into one of these categories, both public and private hospitals will expect you to pay for your care. To ensure access to affordable medical care, tourists should purchase travel insurance and digital nomads should look into international health insurance. Many of Dubai’s high-quality private hospitals can use private insurance plans.
How Can Expats and Visitors Access Hospitals in Dubai?
Dubai is home to both public and private hospitals. Foreign residents with a health card can visit public hospitals. However, waiting times are shorter at private hospitals. These facilities also have a greater range of specialists.
Most of the private hospitals in Dubai for foreigners accept international health insurance plans. Tourists can get travel medical insurance that will cover any necessary care during a trip. Global nomads and expats will benefit from a longer-lasting international health insurance plan. These plans will cover you in Dubai, as well as in other places you visit. If you do not have insurance, or if your insurance is not accepted, facilities will expect you to pay upfront for almost all procedures.
Many private facilities were created with overseas visitors and medical tourists in mind. They want to make your visit a success. English is commonly spoken. Hospitals in Dubai for foreigners offer additional amenities for medical tourists. These include assistance with your visa, transport to and from the airport and coordinating with your insurance company.
Can a Tourist Visit the Hospital in Dubai?
If you’re a tourist in Dubai and you need urgent medical care, you are welcome to visit any hospital in Dubai. Some foreign visitors come to Dubai specifically for medical treatment, as the city caters to medical tourists. The healthcare services offered include maternity care and surgeries. Many care providers speak English.
How Much Does it Cost to Visit a Hospital in Dubai?
Healthcare in Dubai is quite expensive, for several reasons. One is that the quality of care is excellent. But another is the sheer number of foreigners living in the UAE, compared to residents. Non-residents cannot access public healthcare, and so seek out private hospitals, which are more costly. Expats also tend to go for specialist treatments first, bypassing more affordable general care.
The best hospitals in Dubai offer packages for common procedures such as joint replacements, weight loss surgery, cosmetic surgery and coronary care. Such surgeries can range in price from around $6,000 USD for a face lift, to around $32,000 for a total knee replacement. While these costs might seem high to some expatriates, they are still often significantly lower than similar procedures in the United States. As always, the best plan for visiting hospitals in Dubai is to purchase international medical insurance before leaving your home country.
Do Any Hospitals in Dubai Offer Free Treatment?
For Emirati nationals, public healthcare is provided free of charge. Expats and other foreigners have to pay for their medical care. The only exception is for medical emergencies.
If you experience a medical emergency in Dubai, treatment to stabilize your condition will be provided for free. This is true of both public and private hospitals. After this, you’ll need to pay for your care. Payment options include private insurance, such as an international insurance plan or travel medical insurance. If you do not have insurance, you will still have to pay for your care. Hospitals accept cash and credit cards.
The 10 Best Hospitals in Dubai
Whether you’re an expat resident, a health tourist, or a visitor seeking medical treatment in Dubai, choosing the right hospital is crucial. This guide highlights the best hospitals in Dubai, providing insights into their specializations and services. With multi-lingual doctors and exceptional care, Dubai’s hospitals ensure kindness, respect, and top-notch treatment.
The Top Hospitals in Dubai
From experienced physicians to excellent facilities and post-care services, patients can expect the utmost professionalism and attention to well-being. Whether for emergencies or planned surgeries, Dubai’s hospitals prioritize patient health and offer comprehensive care. Making an informed decision for health tourism or any medical needs is paramount, and this guide aims to assist in that process.
1. Saudi German Hospital
Established in 1988 by the Saudi German Hospital Group, Saudi German Hospital in Dubai stands out as one of the best hospitals in the region. Boasting a capacity of over 300 beds, it offers comprehensive medical services across various specialities and subspecialties. Accredited by JCI and CAP, the hospital features top-class critical care units adhering to international standards. With state-of-the-art facilities and advanced curative techniques, it operates as a world-class medical centre, providing high-standard clinical care to patients.
2. Canadian Specialist Hospital Dubai
As one of Dubai’s premier healthcare centres, Canadian Specialist Hospital boasts advanced world-class facilities and cutting-edge technology. With a capacity of 200 beds and over 300 specialized centres, it stands as one of the largest hospitals in the region.
It is well-known for its exceptional diagnostic and treatment services, attracting patients from across the Middle East. Staffed by dedicated experts and renowned doctors, the hospital provides comprehensive tertiary healthcare services, ensuring immaculate medical care. Recognized for its excellence, Canadian Specialist Hospital serves as a referral facility for other healthcare centres, solidifying its position as one of the best hospitals in Dubai.
3. American Hospital Dubai
The American Hospital Dubai sets the bar for high-quality American-style healthcare in the region. Recognized for its excellence, it was the first in the Middle East to receive Joint Commission International approval, maintaining its esteemed status. With a large team of experienced multi-speciality physicians, the hospital delivers comprehensive medical services, from primary to emergency care, all meeting rigorous standards.
Equipped with advanced technology and a patient-centric approach, it ensures top-notch medical treatment. As a leading private acute care facility, the American Hospital Dubai continues to uphold superior standards, making it a prime choice for medical care in the region.
4. Dr. Sulaiman Al-Habib Hospital
Dr. Sulaiman Al-Habib Hospital, a state-of-the-art medical facility in Dubai, is part of the renowned Dr. Sulaiman Al-Habib Medical Group. As a multi-disciplinary health centre, it offers a wide array of medical services with world-class facilities, maintaining international standards of quality and clinical excellence.
Catering to both domestic and international patients, the hospital prioritizes utmost care and reliable medical treatment. Equipped with the latest medical technology for diagnostics, therapy, and critical care, Dr. Sulaiman Al-Habib Hospital stands as one of the top hospitals in Dubai.
5. Zulekha Hospital Dubai
Zulekha Hospital Dubai, part of the esteemed Zulekha Healthcare Group founded by Dr. Zulekha Daud in 1964, stands as a beacon of top-quality healthcare in Dubai. Dr. Daud’s vision of providing affordable medical facilities resonates through the hospital’s ethos.
Established in 2004, it boasts 179 beds across 32 specialties, led by highly qualified doctors. Committed to efficiency, competence, and courtesy, Zulekha Hospital aims to be a leading provider of comprehensive healthcare globally. Dr. Zulekha’s contributions to the sector have earned her prestigious awards, reflecting her dedication and excellence in serving the community.
6. NMC Royal Hospital Dubai
One of the largest private healthcare companies in the UAE, NMC Healthcare stands out globally as a leader in fertility treatment. Renowned for personalized care and a sincere commitment to well-being, it prioritizes patient health above all else. The flagship NMC Royal Hospital in Dubai Investment Park offers advanced tertiary care across 22 medical specialties, including Cardiology, Gastroenterology, and Neurology.
With centres of excellence in various fields, such as Obstetrics, Orthopedics, and Urology, the hospital ensures comprehensive healthcare services. Associated speciality clinics cater to specific needs, ranging from Abdominal Pain to Breast Care. With branches in Al Nahda, NMC Healthcare continues to provide excellent healthcare in Dubai.
7. Valiant Clinic & Hospital Dubai
Valiant Clinic & Hospital Dubai stands as a distinguished multi-specialty boutique hospital renowned for its world-class diagnostic and wellness services. Committed to evidence-based care with international standards, it emphasizes healthy living, early detection, and fast diagnosis.
Offering US-style essential and premier check-ups, the clinic prioritizes comprehensive healthcare. With a focus on increased awareness and proactive health management, Valiant Clinic & Hospital is a leading hospital in Dubai, ensuring patients receive top-quality care aligned with global standards.
8. Al Zahra Hospitall Zahra Hospital, Dubai, emerges as a pioneering healthcare institution, catering to a diverse clientele both locally and internationally. With coveted accreditations from JCI and CAP, it signifies a commitment to excellence in healthcare delivery. The hospital prides itself on a cadre of highly skilled physicians boasting board certifications and global accreditation. Employing state-of-the-art technologies ensures the provision of world-class medical and surgical treatments coupled with unparalleled patient comfort.
Al Zahra Hospital serves as a preferred destination for individuals across the GCC, North and West Africa, China, and select European nations, addressing a spectrum of healthcare needs from preventive to tertiary care. Its notable accolades, including the Service Olympian Awards and recognitions from esteemed platforms like the Stevie Awards and Annual Health Magazine, underscore its position as a leader in the healthcare domain.
9. Mediclinic
Upon its opening in 2008, Mediclinic City Hospital became the first multi-disciplinary hospital in Dubai Healthcare City. Since then, it has maintained its position as a leading healthcare facility in Dubai, excelling in the quality of its medical staff, the range of services it provides, and the standard of equipment it utilizes
Mediclinic Middle East oversees seven hospitals in the UAE, boasting over 950 inpatient beds. Additionally, it operates more than 29 clinics across Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Al Ain, and Al Dhafra. At the core of Mediclinic’s care approach is a commitment to science, offering top-notch facilities equipped with international-standard technology, supported by expert medical professionals and compassionate nursing staff.
10. Medcare Hospital Al Safa
Medcare Hospital, Al Safa, a part of the Aster DM Healthcare Group, stands as a premium multi-disciplinary hospital in Dubai. Recognized for its excellence, it recently received both the Centre of Excellence and Surgeon of Excellence Awards for metabolic and bariatric surgeries. With JCI accreditation, it offers ultramodern infrastructure and quality care across 64 multi-specialty beds.
Equipped with advanced technologies, the hospital covers 20 specialities, from cardiology to orthopaedics. The hospital is renowned for its expertise in treating coronary artery disease and other cardiac conditions cementing its position as one of the best hospitals in Dubai. Medcare Hospital also partners with leading insurance companies and provides services for remote consultations. Combining top-notch medical care with luxurious facilities, it stands as a global benchmark in healthcare provision.
While this guide offers a brief overview of some of the best hospitals in Dubai, it’s crucial for individuals to conduct their own research. Medical treatments and healthcare provider selection are highly personal decisions influenced by preferences, past experiences, and various other factors.
This guide serves as a reference rather than medical advice, and it’s recommended to consult with professionals for personalized guidance. We encourage thorough research and discussions with healthcare experts which will lead to informed choices tailored to individual needs and circumstances. In conclusion, prioritize staying healthy to minimize hospital visits and ensure a good quality of life.
