The Dubai Health Authority and Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism join forces to boost healthcare innovation, attract international patients, and solidify Dubai’s role as a premier destination for quality medical care and economic development.

Dubai is taking strategic steps to advance its medical tourism sector after revenues of more than $628 million in 2023. This will focus on positioning Dubai as a global leader in healthcare and quality of life.

The collaboration formalized through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed by Helal Saeed Almarri, Director General of DET, and Awadh Seghayer Al Ketbi, Director General of DHA, highlights a shared commitment to innovation and operational efficiency in healthcare. The initiative aligns with Dubai's long-term economic goals under the Dubai Economic Agenda (D33) which aims to boost the emirate’s appeal as a destination for business, leisure, and healthcare.

In 2023, Dubai attracted 691,478 medical tourists generating direct healthcare expenditures of over AED 1.034 billion ($282 million), surpassing the previous year’s figures. The indirect impact of medical tourism fuelled economic growth across sectors like aviation, hospitality, and telecommunications reinforcing Dubai’s status as a vital hub for international healthcare and broader economic activity.

With advanced infrastructure, cutting-edge technology and a business-friendly environment, Dubai continues to attract top international hospitals, specialized healthcare centers and investments in pioneering healthcare projects. This new partnership further supports Dubai’s ambition to be the world’s preferred destination for medical care, business and overall well-being.

Leaders from both DHA and DET emphasized that this collaboration not only fosters growth in healthcare but also supports Dubai’s broader vision of becoming the best city to visit, live, and work globally.

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