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Navigate Health Care in Dubai

Explore healthcare options for expatriates and digital nomads in Dubai: uncover top-rated providers, hospitals, and medical facilities to meet your needs while living abroad in Dubai.
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The healthcare system in Dubai is a combination of public and private healthcare systems. The public healthcare system is provided by the Dubai Health Authority (DHA) and is used by both citizens and foreigners. People generally recommend using public hospitals in Dubai for serious medical emergencies and major surgery, as they are well-equipped and staffed with experienced medical professionals. The public hospitals in Dubai are clean and modern, and offer a wide range of services. Foreigners (expats and digital nomads) are allowed to use the public healthcare system in UAE, however, many expats prefer to use private hospitals for their medical needs. Private hospitals in Dubai are well-equipped and offer a wide range of services, and are generally recommended for serious medical emergencies and major surgery.

Hospitals and Clinics for Expats in Dubai

There are several recommended clinics and hospitals in Dubai for expats. These include:

  • Dubai Hospital: This is a public hospital located in the heart of Dubai. It is well-equipped and offers a wide range of services.
  • Al Zahra Hospital: This is a private hospital located in the Al Barsha area of Dubai. It specializes in women’s health and offers a wide range of services.
  • Medcare Hospital: This is a private hospital located in the Jumeirah area of Dubai. It specializes in orthopedic and sports medicine and offers a wide range of services.

Emergency Services in Dubai

Dubai has a well-developed emergency services system. Ambulance services are available and can be called by dialing 998. Ambulances usually arrive quickly, however, there can be delays during peak times.

Health Insurance Companies in Dubai

The most popular private health insurers in Dubai are Daman, Oman Insurance, and AXA. These companies offer a range of health insurance plans for individuals and families. Expats and digital nomads typically use these companies or specialized expat health insurance providers.

Insider Tips from Expats in Dubai: Health Care

“I’ve been living in Dubai for a few years now, and I can tell you that it’s definitely possible to live comfortably on $5,000 a month, but you’ll need to make some adjustments and be mindful of your spending. First, let’s talk about housing. Some of the more expensive neighborhoods like Downtown Dubai, Palm Jumeirah, and Dubai Marina might be out of your budget, as rents can be quite high there. Instead, consider more affordable areas like Jumeirah Village Circle, Al Barsha, or Mirdif. These neighborhoods still offer good amenities and are well-connected to the rest of the city.When it comes to transportation, owning a car can be quite expensive due to insurance, fuel, and maintenance costs. Instead, I’d recommend using public transportation like the metro, buses, and taxis, which are relatively affordable and efficient. If you do decide to get a car, consider buying a used one to save on costs.Eating out can also be pricey in Dubai, especially if you frequent high-end restaurants and hotels. To save on food expenses, try cooking at home more often and shopping at local supermarkets or even the more affordable chains like Carrefour and Lulu Hypermarket. When you do eat out, look for more budget-friendly options like shawarma stands, cafeterias, and smaller local restaurants.Another expense to consider is entertainment. Dubai has a lot of attractions and events, but they can be quite costly. To save on entertainment, look for free or low-cost activities like visiting public beaches, parks, and museums. Also, keep an eye out for discounts and promotions on websites like Groupon and Cobone, which often offer deals on dining, activities, and events.Finally, be mindful of your utility bills, as electricity and water can be expensive in Dubai. Try to conserve energy by turning off lights and appliances when not in use, and consider using energy-efficient appliances and light bulbs.Overall, living comfortably on $5,000 a month in Dubai is possible, but you’ll need to be mindful of your spending and make some adjustments to your lifestyle. By choosing a more affordable neighborhood, using public transportation, cooking at home, and finding budget-friendly entertainment options, you can make it work and still enjoy your time in this amazing city,” commented an expat living in Dubai.

Joshua WoodJoshua Wood, LPC joined Expat Exchange in 2000 and serves as one of its Co-Presidents. He is also one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist.

Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.

Additional Information:

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