Healthcare in Dubai – medical information for those living in Dubai

The provision of healthcare in Dubai is something the government is rightly proud of. Emergency care is free and most other treatments are subsidised for those living in Dubai. Some expatriates buying Dubai properties have medical insurance provided by their employers but even if this is not the case, insurance and treatment is affordable.

Nationals and foreign residents have access to state medical care, but need to obtain a health card, which is available from the Ministry of Health.

An introduction to healthcare in Dubai

Healthcare in Dubai is provided in either the private or public sectors, with a good range of medical facilities across both. Waiting lists are not the issue they are elsewhere (i.e. Britain) although specialist treatments are often delivered abroad for those who can afford it.

Dubai has a health service which provides free or subsidised medical provision for its nationals and expatriates living in Dubai. However, the government have been encouraging people to take out private medical insurance and for employers to provide it.

If, for example, you are visiting the city to view Dubai properties then you will have access to state healthcare in Dubai but should also arrange insurance before traveling.

Healthcare in Dubai – hospitals and clinics

When living in Dubai, you should familiarise yourself with the various different types of hospital providing healthcare in Dubai. Some private hospitals offer luxury – but at a price. Hospitals and clinics, the term for a GP surgery, are mostly open 24 hours a day and English is widely spoken by staff throughout.

Public hospitals and clinics function perfectly well with the luxury of their private peers being the only thing missing.

When you first enter the market for Dubai properties you must think about your medical requirements and what living in Dubai will mean to them. Consider access to healthcare in Dubai and whether any pre-existing conditions will be covered by health insurance.

Healthcare in Dubai – emergency services

Dubai emergency services are not as efficient as in western countries and you must keep this in mind when looking at Dubai properties. The ambulance system is used primarily for road traffic accidents so the usual way of getting to hospital is by car or taxi.

When living in Dubai you should note where your nearest hospital is and what facilities they offer. Keep the number of a taxi service in case you need to get to hospital and also the numbers for Dubai emergency services.

Healthcare in Dubai – doctors and prescriptions

Many excellent doctors deliver healthcare in Dubai and appointments can normally be obtained within 24 to 72 hours. Clinics are usually open between 9am to 1pm and 5.30 to 8.30pm.

Many clinics will also contain facilities for services such as blood testing and any costs incurred would need to be paid before an invoice to present to your insurers is given to you.

Medicines are dispensed from pharmacies and, depending on the drugs, may be available without prescription. Most pharmacies will open similar hours to doctors’ clinics although some hospitals may open 24-hour pharmacies.

Healthcare in Dubai is excellent and those living in Dubai have little problems with the system. Nevertheless, your medical requirements should always be considered when looking to buy Dubai properties.