DHA, DET working together to boost Dubai’s medical tourism sector

Dubai has been rapidly establishing itself as a global hub for medical tourism. A recent partnership between the Dubai Health Authority (DHA) and the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) aims to further boost Dubai's standing in this sector. By signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), both entities are committed to making Dubai a leading destination for healthcare, life quality, and overall well-being.

This collaboration aligns with the ambitious goals of the Dubai Economic Agenda, D33, which seeks to elevate the city's position globally across multiple sectors, including healthcare.

How does it work?

The newly signed MoU focuses on several strategic areas to drive the growth of medical tourism. Both DHA and DET aim to attract foreign investment to accelerate healthcare development. This involves showcasing Dubai's advanced healthcare services, supporting digital health initiatives, and promoting the Emirate's potential to investors. Additionally, the MoU outlines efforts to host major global medical conferences and meetings, aiming to bring international attention to Dubai's healthcare capabilities.

Another key aspect is the promotion of official delegations to visit Dubai's healthcare facilities, thus creating opportunities for partnerships and knowledge exchange in the medical field.

As His Excellency Helal Saeed Almarri, Director General of the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism, stated, "This will elevate the city's status as we consolidate our position as a leading global destination for business and leisure, and fulfill the leadership's vision of making the city the best place in the world to visit, live, and work in."

Why does it matter?

This partnership is crucial in solidifying Dubai's place as a global leader in medical tourism. Healthcare is a significant contributor to the economy, so the MoU seeks to attract patients seeking world-class medical services and boost the city's overall economic performance. The agreement strengthens Dubai's ability to attract investments for pioneering projects in healthcare, fostering an environment where high-quality medical services can thrive.

In 2023, Dubai attracted over 691,000 medical tourists, contributing more than AED 1.034 billion to its healthcare sector. These figures highlight the growing global trust in Dubai's healthcare system and showcase the economic impact of medical tourism on sectors such as aviation, hospitality, and telecommunications.

The context

Dubai's strategic location and advanced infrastructure provide a natural advantage for becoming a medical tourism hub. The Emirate has made significant progress in creating a healthcare environment that appeals to both international hospitals and individual patients.

"Dubai has leveraged all its resources, including advanced infrastructure, technology, smart solutions, systems, legislation, and facilitation, to create promising investment opportunities in the healthcare sector," said His Excellency Awadh Seghayer Al Ketbi, Director General of the Dubai Health Authority.

The city's focus on enhancing its competitiveness in global indices of economy and tourism further aligns with its goal to become a top destination for both business and healthcare. The MoU builds on these strengths, aiming to draw tourists and establish Dubai as a major player in the global healthcare industry.