Dubai remains bright spot in global medical tourism sector

iStock [For illustration]

Dubai has maintained its position as a leading destination for medical travellers for the second year in a row.

That's according to the latest Global Medical Tourism Index released by the US-based International Healthcare Research Centre (IHRC).

Dubai has retained the top spot in the Arab region while it's ranked sixth globally on the list of 46 locations.

The overall rankings are based on the destination's attractiveness, safety, and quality of care.

Canada heads the index, followed by Singapore and Japan.

Commenting on the latest achievement, Dr. Marwan Al Mulla, CEO of the Health Regulation Sector at Dubai Health Authority (DHA) said: "This achievement is the result of our response to the directives of our wise leadership to enhance the regulatory framework within our medical system and build a world-class healthcare infrastructure and capabilities that meet the needs of healthier and happier communities in the country."  

Strengthening the medical tourism sector is one of the key pillars of the Dubai government's economic diversification policies.

The emirate witnessed a 4 per cent increase in medical tourist arrivals in 2019 (350,118) compared to 2018.

The majority of them were Asians (34 per cent), followed by those from Arab and Gulf countries (28 per cent); European countries at 17 per cent; African nations at 10 per cent; and Americas and others at 10 per cent.

During the first half of 2020, 45 new health facilities, a hospital, as well as 10 medical clinics opened in the emirate.

More from UAE News

  • UAE sends search and rescue team to Myanmar

    The UAE has urgently dispatched a search and rescue team, comprising members from Abu Dhabi Police, the National Guard, and the Joint Operations Command, to support efforts to save people affected by the earthquake in Myanmar.

  • UAE fuel prices announced for April

    Motorists in the UAE will enjoy reduced fuel prices in April, the UAE Fuel Price Committee confirmed on Monday.

  • New Syrian government welcomed by UAE

    The UAE has welcomed the formation of the new Syrian government, and affirmed its support for the Syrian people’s aspirations towards achieving stability and prosperity.

  • Umm Al Quwain Ruler's mother passes away

    His Highness Sheikh Saud bin Rashid Al Mualla, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Umm Al Quwain, has mourned the death of his mother Sheikha Hassa bint Hamid bin Abdulrahman Al-Shamsi.

Coming Up

  • Dubai 92 Chilled

    10:00pm - Midnight

  • Dubai 92 Chilled

    Midnight - 1:00am