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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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Cyprus Tourism Recovers After Difficult Start To 2026

by THEFUTURE.TEAM

October 26, 2026

Cyprus’ tourism sector is recovering after a sharp decline in arrivals earlier this year, but Deputy Minister of Tourism Kostas Koumis has warned that the industry remains vulnerable to external shocks. Presenting the department’s €59.4 million budget for 2027, he stressed that continued growth cannot be taken for granted.

Arrivals Recover After A Sharp Early-Year Decline

Tourist arrivals fell by 5.6% in the first nine months of 2026 compared with the same period last year, Koumis said. This marks a significant improvement from the 17.9% decline recorded during the first four months, although the recovery remains incomplete.

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Despite the setback, arrivals between January and September were 4.1% higher than in 2024 and 8.5% above 2023 levels. Koumis said the figures indicated that the sector had entered a recovery phase, but added that more work was needed to restore demand in certain markets.

An Unprecedented Shock For The Industry

Koumis described 2026 as one of the most difficult years for Cyprus’ tourism sector in decades. External developments triggered widespread cancellations and a sharp slowdown in bookings during March and April, with tens of thousands of reservations cancelled and new bookings largely stalling.

“2026 will undoubtedly remain in the history and memory of those working in the sector as a year during which our country’s tourism industry was called upon to face an unprecedented crisis as a result of external factors,” he told lawmakers.

Budget Focuses On Promotion And Development

Around 62% of the proposed 2027 budget will go towards promoting Cyprus and strengthening its tourism offering. Funding will support marketing campaigns, participation in international tourism fairs and incentive schemes designed to stimulate demand and improve the island’s competitiveness in key markets.

Tourism Revenue Remains Below 2025 Levels

Tourism receipts fell by 7% in the first seven months of 2026 compared with the same period in 2025, according to the Cyprus Statistical Service. However, revenue remained 9.2% above 2024 levels and 13.8% higher than in 2023.

Koumis said the final outcome would depend on performance during the remaining months. If receipts follow a trajectory similar to 2025, he expects the full-year decline to be limited to between 3% and 4%, which he described as “a very satisfactory performance” under the circumstances.

Recovery Does Not Guarantee Future Growth

September recorded what Koumis described as the strongest September on record for tourist arrivals in Cyprus. However, he cautioned against complacency, noting that the disruption earlier in the year demonstrated how quickly external events can affect the sector.

“Success in tourism can never be taken for granted,” he said.

The government aims to ensure that tourism continues to benefit Cyprus’ economy, businesses and local communities in 2027. The proposed budget places particular emphasis on promotion and product development, reflecting a strategy focused on consolidating the recovery while preparing the sector for further uncertainty.