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Why the UAE Is Becoming A Premier Destination For Medical Tourism

by THEFUTURE.TEAM

February 11, 2025

With a commitment to enhancing its healthcare offerings, the UAE has positioned itself as a leader in medical tourism, catering to a growing global demand. As countries focus on improving the health of their populations, the UAE stands out for its strategic investments in both healthcare infrastructure and its appeal to medical tourists.

According to Statista, the global medical tourism market was valued at $47 billion in 2024, with projections indicating it could exceed $111 billion by 2029. The UAE is setting the bar high, with innovative initiatives such as specialized portals for health tourists and streamlined entry processes for medical visitors.

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Tailored Portals And Seamless Experiences

Abu Dhabi and Dubai have launched dedicated online platforms that streamline the process for medical tourists. These portals offer a range of services, including healthcare provider contact information, appointment bookings, hotel reservations, and local transportation. Dubai Health Authority (DHA) introduced the Dubai Health Experience (DXH) brand in 2016, aimed at making the city a global leader in health tourism. The platform offers a curated selection of top-tier treatments in fields such as dentistry, fertility, ophthalmology, and cosmetic surgery.

Meanwhile, in 2018, Abu Dhabi’s Department of Health (DoH) rolled out its own e-portal, showcasing a network of over 40 healthcare facilities that meet the stringent quality standards of the DoH’s JAWDA program. Visitors can explore nearly 300 treatment packages across specialties ranging from routine check-ups to complex surgeries.

Simplified Access With Specialized Permits

To further attract international patients, the UAE offers specialized entry permits for medical tourists and their companions. These permits, which can be single or multiple entries, are sponsored by medical institutions and processed by relevant authorities in the country. Dubai Healthcare City also introduced a new medical visa in January 2024, allowing treatment centers to apply for permits on behalf of patients for stays of up to six months. This move bolsters Dubai’s reputation as a medical tourism hotspot.

The city welcomed 674,000 medical tourists in 2022, generating $270 million in revenue. Wellness tourism is also booming in the UAE, with visitors spending $5.4 billion in 2022—almost double the amount spent in 2020.

Innovation At The Forefront

The UAE’s innovative spirit continues to propel its rise as a medical tourism hub. In 2024, HealthStay.io, the world’s first AI-powered medical tourism solution, launched in partnership with Dubai Health Experience. This startup, part of the Mohammed Bin Rashid Innovation Fund’s Accelerator Program, uses artificial intelligence to automate the medical tourism journey, including selecting treatments and booking appointments.

“The launch of HealthStay.io is a direct result of the support from DXH and DHA, helping us transform Dubai into a global healthcare tourism leader,” said Ruairi Tubrid, co-founder of HealthStay.io. Fatima Yousif Alnaqbi, MBRIF representative, emphasized the importance of accelerator programs in supporting innovative solutions that elevate the UAE’s standing as a center of excellence in healthcare.

Government Commitment To Healthcare Excellence

The UAE’s rapid growth in medical tourism is rooted in its consistent focus on healthcare improvement. Key strategies such as the Emirates Health Services Innovation Strategy 2023-2026 and the National Strategy for Wellbeing 2031 aim to enhance residents’ quality of life and elevate the nation’s healthcare offerings.

Compared to its Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) counterparts, the UAE leads in healthcare expenditure growth. Projections from Alpen Capital estimate that healthcare spending will reach $30.7 billion by 2027, reflecting the nation’s ongoing dedication to strengthening its healthcare infrastructure. As a result, the UAE continues to attract international patients seeking top-tier medical services.

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One In Three Cypriots Open To Using Digital Euro

by News Editor

August 19, 2026

Around one in three Cypriots say they would use the digital euro in their daily lives, despite limited awareness of the new form of money, according to the first islandwide survey published by the Central Bank of Cyprus.

With the first issuance currently expected in 2029, the findings suggest that public education will be crucial, particularly among people who rely more heavily on cash or have less experience with digital tools.

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Awareness Remains Low

Some 61% of respondents say they have no knowledge of the digital euro, while just 1% consider themselves fully informed.

Awareness is higher among people under 65, those with tertiary education and employed respondents. Among those who have heard of the digital euro, awareness is also more common among men, higher-income and more highly educated people, as well as urban residents.

Social media is the leading source of information, cited by 49% of respondents, followed by television at 30%.

35% Would Use The Digital Euro

Despite the knowledge gap, 35% say they are willing to use the digital euro in their daily lives. This is particularly true among people under 45, employed respondents and those with higher education and incomes.

Among potential users, 41% would use it for purchases in physical shops, 40% for online shopping and 33% for person-to-person payments.

By comparison, 28% say they are somewhat or very unlikely to use the digital euro.

Privacy And Cash Are Main Concerns

The biggest concerns are the possibility of transactions being tracked and fears that cash could eventually be abolished, cited by 53% of respondents.

Another 38% are concerned about security, while 25% worry about managing their spending. Some 30% have significant concerns about the ease of using the digital euro.

For businesses, 9% say their willingness to accept digital euro payments would depend on factors such as cost, ease of implementation and demand, while 27% say they would not accept such payments.