Dubai’s healthcare industry is growing at an impressive pace and it’s full of opportunities for new businesses. In just the past few years, the number of healthcare facilities in the city has increased from around 3,400 in 2019 to nearly 5,000 by 2023. The number of licensed professionals has also gone up significantly, showing just how fast the sector is expanding.
For investors from the UK and Europe, Dubai is an especially attractive place to start a healthcare business. The government is very supportive, offering benefits like tax-free zones (such as Dubai Healthcare City), long-term visas for medical professionals, and clear business regulations. Programs like the Dubai Health Strategy and Golden Visa scheme are designed to encourage international investment and make the setup process easier.
The demand for healthcare services is also rising. Dubai’s population is growing fast, and with it, the need for quality care. On top of that, medical tourism is booming, in 2023, nearly 700,000 people visited Dubai for medical treatments, spending close to AED 1 billion (about $280 million). This trend is expected to continue, creating even more demand for trusted healthcare providers.
Of course, starting a healthcare business here means following some rules. You’ll need to get approvals from authorities like the Dubai Health Authority (DHA) or Dubai Healthcare City Authority (DHCA), depending on where you set up. These bodies make sure all healthcare businesses meet high standards and run safely.
What are the Legal Requirements and Licensing Bodies for Healthcare Business in Dubai?
If you’re planning to open a healthcare business in Dubai, it’s important to understand the key legal requirements and which authorities you need to deal with.
1. Dubai Health Authority (DHA)
If you’re setting up your business in mainland Dubai, the DHA is your main regulator. It oversees licensing for clinics, hospitals, diagnostic centres, and individual healthcare professionals.
2. Ministry of Health and Prevention (MOHAP)
MOHAP handles health regulations at the federal level across the UAE and is involved in licensing for certain medical professions and pharmaceuticals.
3. Department of Economic Development (DED)
You’ll need a Dubai healthcare license from DED if you’re setting up in mainland Dubai. It issues the commercial or professional trade license based on your activity type.
4. Dubai Healthcare City Authority (DHCA)
If you want to open your business in Dubai Healthcare City (DHCC) – a free zone dedicated to healthcare, DHCA is the authority you’ll work with. It provides an integrated licensing process for both healthcare and business operations.
5. Healthcare License Types You Might Need
- Professional License: For individual healthcare professionals like doctors, physiotherapists, and medical consultants.
- Commercial License: For businesses like clinics, hospitals, pharmacies, medical equipment trading, or diagnostic labs.
6. Mainland vs Free Zone
- Mainland (DHA + DED): Suitable if you want to serve the wider population of Dubai without restrictions. Ideal for clinics or hospitals targeting local communities.
- Free Zone (DHCC): Great for those wanting 100% ownership and tax benefits. However, operations are generally limited to within the free zone unless additional approvals are obtained.
What Documents are Required to Start a Healthcare Business in Dubai?
To get your Dubai healthcare license approved, these documents are a must.
- Passport copies of all shareholders and managers
- Emirates ID and UAE visa copy (if available)
- Trade name reservation certificate
- Initial approval certificate (from DED/DHA or DHCA)
- Business plan
- Tenancy contract/Ejari
- Facility layout and blueprints
- Healthcare professionals’ qualification documents
- Memorandum of Association (MOA)
- Passport-size photographs
- Completed license application forms
How to Start a Healthcare Business in Dubai, UAE?
Here’s a simple step-by-step guide to help you launch your healthcare business in Dubai the right way.
1. Conduct Market Research & Business Planning
Identify service gaps (e.g., eldercare, telemedicine) and analyze demand and competition. Develop a clear business plan outlining services, target audience, financials, and projected ROI.
2. Choose Business Structure & Jurisdiction
Decide between Mainland (LLC, branch, or professional license) or Free Zone (e.g., DHCC). Mainland allows UAE-wide operations and government contracts; Free Zone offers 100% foreign ownership, tax breaks, and a dedicated healthcare ecosystem.
3. Reserve Your Trade Name
Select a compliant name and reserve it via the Department of Economy & Tourism (DET)/DED, or relevant Free Zone body.
4. Obtain Initial Approvals
- Mainland: Seek initial approval from DET/DED and DHA.
- Free Zone: Apply to DHCA’s Centre for Planning & Quality
5. Draft & Submit Company Registration Documents
Prepare MOA (plus LSA agreement if necessary) and submit shareholder information. Include facility plans and business plan per regulatory guidelines.
6. Apply for DHA or DHCA Approval
Submit an application to the Dubai Health Authority (DHA) or Dubai Healthcare City Authority (DHCA) for healthcare-specific approval, including:
- Facility layout drawings
- Location details
- List of medical equipment
- Qualifications of medical staff (for professional licensing)
7. Finalize Office or Facility Space
You’ll need to lease a commercial property that complies with the DHA/DHCA requirements for medical facilities. The premises must meet health and safety standards.
8. Obtain Final Trade License
Once the above approvals are in place:
- Mainland: Apply for a professional or commercial license from DED
- Free Zone: Get your license issued by DHCC Free Zone Authority
9. Hire Qualified Staff
Recruit licensed healthcare professionals (doctors, nurses, technicians) and ensure they’re registered via DHA (Sheryan portal) or DHCA (MASAAR). Verification, exams, and credentialing are mandatory.
10. Inspection and Final Approval
After fit-out and setup of your medical facility, DHA or DHCA will conduct a final inspection. Once passed, you’ll receive a Facility License, allowing you to operate legally.
11. Open a Corporate Bank Account & Secure Insurance
Set up a business bank account using your final licenses. Purchase malpractice insurance, and ensure DEWA utilities and insurance coverage are in place.
How Much Does It Cost to Start Medical Clinic in Dubai?
Your main expenses will include Dubai healthcare licenses and healthcare approvals, which typically range between AED 13,500 to AED 50,000+. This includes your business license from the DED or Free Zone authority, and professional/facility licensing from DHA or DHCA. Additional fees may apply for name reservation, initial approvals, and company documentation like the MOA.
You’ll also need to factor in staff salaries, visa costs, malpractice insurance, and utility connections, which could add another AED 300,000 to AED 700,000+ annually. Other costs include branding, marketing, and PRO services.
What are the Market Opportunities in Dubai’s Healthcare Sector?
Dubai’s healthcare industry is growing fast, and there’s never been a better time to invest. Here’s a look at the biggest opportunities right now:
1. Fast-Growing Market
Dubai’s healthcare market is expected to reach USD 20 billion by 2025, growing at around 7.5% per year. With the population set to rise to 5.3 million by 2030, the demand for hospitals, clinics, and wellness centres is only going up.
2. Boom in Medical Tourism
In 2023, Dubai attracted over 691,000 medical tourists, who spent more than AED 1 billion on healthcare services. Add to that indirect spending of AED 2.3 billion on hotels, travel, and wellness, and you have a sector that benefits more than just clinics.
3. Luxury & Wellness Treatments in High Demand
Dubai is known for attracting high-income patients from around the world, especially for services like cosmetic surgery, dental care, fertility treatments, and orthopaedics. People come here for top-notch care, short waiting times, and a touch of luxury.
4. Focus on Advanced Technology
Dubai is embracing smart healthcare. There’s growing investment in AI-powered diagnostics, robotic surgeries, and telemedicine platforms. If you’re interested in tech-driven healthcare, Dubai is the place to be.
5. Strong Government Support
Dubai’s government is actively supporting the sector through initiatives like the Dubai Health Strategy, Dubai Health Experience (DXH), and fast-track medical visa programs. These efforts make it easier for investors and healthcare providers to set up and grow.
6. Dedicated Healthcare Free Zone
Dubai Healthcare City (DHCC) is a special free zone made just for healthcare businesses. It already hosts over 120 medical facilities and more than 4,000 licensed professionals. Investors get 100% foreign ownership, smooth licensing, and support for medical research and education.
Why Choose Shuraa UK for Your Healthcare Company Setup in Dubai?
Starting a healthcare business in Dubai can be a great opportunity. The city’s growing population, strong government support, and rising demand for quality medical services make it the perfect place to begin your journey. But we understand that setting everything up, from licenses and approvals to choosing the right location, can feel a bit overwhelming. That’s where Shuraa comes in.
We’ll guide you through every step of the process, helping you with medical licensing, DHA approvals, trade licenses, visas, PRO services, and even finding the right office space. You focus on building your healthcare brand, and we’ll take care of the rest.
Ready to get started? Contact Shuraa UK today!
