Dubai’s Health Tourism Booms in 2023 with AED 1.03 Billion in Expenditures

Dubai’s health tourism sector experienced significant growth in 2023, with the Dubai Health Authority (DHA) reporting a surge in international medical tourists.

The emirate welcomed over 691,000 health tourists, a notable increase from 674,000 in 2022, resulting in a collective expenditure of AED 1.03 billion on healthcare services. This growth underscores Dubai’s reputation as a global leader in healthcare excellence.

DHA’s efforts, aligned with the Dubai Economic Agenda D33, aim to enhance Dubai’s global standing in business, investment, and tourism.

Director-General Awadh Seghayer Al Ketbi highlighted the emirate’s commitment to advanced healthcare services, competitive pricing, and strategic partnerships, contributing to Dubai’s appeal as a top health tourism destination.

The report revealed that 58% of health tourists were women, with the majority originating from Asia (33%), the GCC (28%), and Europe (23%). Dubai’s advanced medical expertise and cutting-edge technology continue to attract patients worldwide, reinforcing its position as a premier hub for specialized healthcare services.

A breakdown of the medical specialisations most sought after by visitors and the region-wise breakup in terms of specialised treatments they sought is as follows:

Top 3 in-demand specialties: Dentistry – 29 percent, Dermatology – 27 percent, Gynaecology- 13 percent.

Region-wise demand for dermatology: Asia – 33 percent, Arab and GCC countries – 28 percent, Europe – 23 percent.

Region-wise demand for dental services: Arab and GCC countries – 48 percent, Europe – 20 percent, Asia – 19 percent.

Region-wise demand for gynaecology services: Asian countries – 49 percent, European countries – 25 percent, Arab and GCC countries – 13 percent.

Region-wise demand for orthopaedic surgery: Arab and GCC countries – 30 percent, Asia – 29 percent, Europe – 24 percent.

Region-wise demand for plastic surgery: Arab and GCC countries – 43 percent, Asia – 21 percent, Europe – 21 percent.

Region-wise demand for ophthalmology services: Asia – 28 percent, Arab and GCC countries – 27 percent, Africa – 21 percent.

Region-wise demand for fertility treatments: Asia – 36 percent, Arab and GCC countries – 22 percent, Europe – 21 percent.

Region-wise demand for recuperation and recovery treatments: Europe – 35 percent, Arab and GCC countries – 30 percent, Asia – 21 percent.